Typographical interlocking pairs refer to the combination of two letters in a font that are designed to overlap and interlock with each other. This design technique is often used in logos, headlines, and other graphical elements to create a distinctive and visually striking effect. Some examples of typographical interlocking pairs include the letters “fi” and “fl”, which are often designed to overlap with each other in certain fonts.
One of my favourite type foundries, Pintassilgo Prints produce some real solid retro, funky, quirky, playful fonts, jammed packed with elegant interlocking pairs. I’ve purchase a few in my time and some of my favourites are Phantaztik, Sundowners and Changing.
Below are examples of fonts; Phantaztik, Sundowners and Changing from Pintassilgo font foundry showing some of the different types of interlocking pairs each font has to offer.
One of the benefits of using typographical interlocking pairs is that it can help to make a logo or design more memorable and distinctive. By using letters that are designed to overlap and interlock with each other, designers can create a unique visual identity that stands out from the crowd. Additionally, using interlocking pairs can also help to improve the legibility of text, as the overlapping letters can help to create a more unified and cohesive visual experience. Overall, typographical interlocking pairs are a powerful design tool that can be used to create compelling and memorable visual content.
However, it’s important to note that not all fonts are designed to include interlocking pairs, and their use can sometimes result in readability issues. Some font styles may not lend themselves well to interlocking pairs, as certain letter combinations can be difficult to distinguish from one another. As such, it’s important for designers to carefully consider the intended use and audience of a font before incorporating interlocking pairs into the design.
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