Letterform Analysis: Seeing Ovals in the Hairline/Shade Transitions By Dr. Joseph M. Vitolo http://www.zanerian.com
Seeing Ovals in the Hairline/Shade Transitions The lowercase letter ‘v’:
‘Like’ Transitions are created by Symmetrical ovals having their Long axis ON the slant angle. This Also helps with spacing issues.
Slant Angle © Image created by Dr. Joseph M. Vitolo
Asymmetrical Ovals Cause Asymmetrical Hairline/Shade Transitions
Š Image created by Dr. Joseph M. Vitolo
This oval is beyond the slant angle of the letter and is also larger than the bottom oval. This can lead To wider letter spacing.
A little too wide due to less acute transition angle. This last stroke of the ‘m’ transition is formed on a wider oval that is the top transition oval that starts the finishing ‘m’ shade.
Before
After Computer Re-touching
Making this transition on slant angle with a slight compound curve will help to close gap between these types of shade to shade transitions. This gives a more harmonious spacing.
© Image created by Dr. Joseph M. Vitolo
The Study of Letterforms Original
Ovals
The Compound curve and the ovals forming it.
One Primary Shade
4 Secondary Shades
Script from WA Baird, The Zanerian Manual. Š Image created by Dr. Joseph M. Vitolo