Know Your Type Designers: William Caslon I

This week’s Typography Tuesday: Know You Type Designers: William Caslon I.

William Caslon I

Born 1692 in Worcestershire, England
Died: 1766
Typefaces: Caslon, Pica Roman, Small Pica No. 1, Long Primer No. 2, Great Primer Roman

It’s an old printer’s maxim that “when in doubt use Caslon.” It is impressive that for almost 200 years his typeface has been used as the default font for printers in the English speaking world.

Originally trained as a gunsmith and engraver, William Caslon I opened his own type foundry in 1722; where he developed Hebrew, Arabic and Roman typefaces. The production of his Roman fonts ended the English dependence on Dutch made type. Though  not considered an innovator (since his style of fonts were common) his execution and consummate skill as a craftsman are unparalleled. His typefaces were also very popular in America and was used by Mary Katherine Goddard for the printing of the American Declaration of Independence.

For more information:

• William Caslon Biography
• William Caslon on Wikipedia
• Caslon Font
• Adobe Caslon Font

Interesting timelapse video of choosing a typeface

I saw this interesting timelapse video of the very talented Designer Brian Hoff as he works up different looks for a logo he is working on.  Anyone who has ever done this can relate to this fun and frustrating (at times) chore of picking just the right typeface.

Often times  I have the perfect typeface in mind or at the very least a general style based on appropriateness, historical convention and client requirements. However sometimes the joy is just scrolling through and finding a happy accident of a typeface that looks good when you least expect it. One of the little joys I get in the wild world of Graphic Design.

Related Links:

• Brian Hoff’s Website
• Brian’s post about creating the video
• Brian’s portfolio
• The official site of Suitcasefusion 2 by Extensis. One of these days I keep to pick up a copy.