Design of a New Japanese Typeface: Typos

Abstract

The Japanese language is a formidable one for those who are concerned with the design and the use of the printed word. Because the Japanese language employs the kanji, the hiragana, and the katakana for writing, the task of designing a new typeface involves the design of over 1,000 characters so that they will blend together when used interchangeably in an almost unlimited number of combinations. The theory and construction method used to create Typo, a new Japanese typeface, are discussed and illustrated in comparison with existing characters.