CDGD214 - 01 - Lettering in Design

This course will cover the fundamentals of brush lettering and design from a sign painting perspective. In the first section, we'll study and execute four key alphabets that are central to hand lettering and commercial design. The alphabets will first be formed by pencil and chalk, then crafted by brush as the lesson advances. The second section will cover lettering layout. Here we will examine principles of natural layout, format, negative space, line value, rhythm, and color. These principles will then be utilized in the creation of painted show cards-advertising signs that are intentionally temporary and often painted on paper. The third section will explore the use of "bells and whistles" in letterform and design. Here we will learn how to alter the traditional letterform to create a more expressive cousin. We'll also look at other forms of ornamentation including dimension, convex, pinstripes, and flourishes. The final project will entail creating a hand-painted design for a mock client. You will be responsible for interpreting the client's requests and creating a design that utilizes the skills you've learned throughout the semester.