What is Modular Type?

Modular type is letters, words, alphabets, etc. constructed entirely from a limited set of shapes. Though many letters of the latin alphabet seem aesthetically disparate, they share very similar forms; most letters are easily created with a "round" and a "straight" stroke.

Modular Type Introduction

The Guidelines

With this set of modules I created, I stuck to a strict set of rules for their use and application. These rules help to establish a consistency to the letters visually and inform the process of constructing the forms.

  • The modules must be the same across all letters of the alphabet; the fewer the more efficient.
  • The modules may be flipped or rotated, but never scaled or skewed.
  • Overlap of the modules should be kept to a minimum, to help keep the forms created as consistent as possible.
Modular Type Rules

Application

The specimens on the right have been constructed with letterforms from the modular alphabet.

Modular Type Specimen

Module Swapping

With the simple skeleton of the alphabet constructed, one can modify the letterforms by swapping out and/or modifying specific modules. The dynamic Flash element on the right demonstrates how changing the modules affects the entire letter set. Click on the grey circles near the bottom to view different module sets.