Create typefaces like a DAA winner
When Samuel Farfsing and Brian Roettinger created their award-winning project, “A Year’s Work,” they were faced with the challenge of unifying a diverse body of work created by students in the BFA and MFA programs at CalArts. One strategy they used was to create a custom typeface in Adobe® Illustrator®. Here’s how they did it.
Start with a predefined typeface
When creating a custom typeface, it’s a good idea to start with an existing typeface that looks similar to what you want. Sam and Brian began with Helvetica.
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Start a new document in Illustrator. Using the Type tool, type all of the letters and characters (such as numbers or symbols) you want to include in your custom typeface.
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In the Character palette, specify a Font and Font Style. (Sam and Brian selected Helvetica Neu for Font and Medium for Font Style.) For easier editing, increase the font size to at least 72 points.
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Use the Selection tool to select the text box containing the characters you want to modify. Choose Type > Create Outlines to convert the characters to editable paths.
Add stencil lines
Sam and Brian added stencil lines to many of the letters in their typeface. The stencil lines are actually cut out of the original characters, so that background colors will show through the stencil line.
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Using the Rectangle tool, draw a rectangle with the dimensions of the stencil line you want. Adjust the stroke weight of the rectangle as needed in the Stroke palette.
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Move the rectangle into position over the type character. To see what the stencil line will look like when it’s cut, change the color of the rectangle and its stroke to white.
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Select the rectangle, and choose Object > Arrange > Move To Back to place the rectangle behind the type character.
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Select the type character and the rectangle at the same time. (Using the Selection tool, draw a selection area around both shapes, or press the Shift key as you click each shape.)
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In the Pathfinder palette, click Minus Back. This cuts the type character wherever it intersects the rectangle behind it.
Add shapes
In addition to stencil lines, Sam and Brian added an “x” shape to the middle of the “o” and “0” (zero) characters of their typeface.
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Using the Line tool, draw a 45 degree line inside an “o” or “0” (zero) character. Color the line black and adjust the stroke weight in the Stroke palette as needed.
