Font ?? Friday and Other Designery Things #10

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I didn’t see myself as a writer two years ago, when I started this newsletter. But here I am. Writing! So thanks for sticking with me, and for your lovely feedback.

And I don’t just write the newsletter these days.

This month I wrote an article called “Trade Secrets” for The Strad magazine, which I design. It was a step-by-step guide to Photoshop retouching skills for luthiers (the people who make stringed instruments – in case it comes up in a pub quiz).

This month, I’m writing the June edition of the “Sunrise Club” newsletter for Freelancer Magazine.

And this week, I started writing a blog for my website called “Do awards matter?”

In the name of research, I put a call out on LinkedIn for different views. Phew! I didn’t expect to get that many comments! I got so much feedback it’s now turned into an article!

So I suppose I AM a writer… of sorts. And “as a writer” (haha)… I love script handwritten fonts. I’m always looking for a more gentle creative turn instead of the regulars like ‘Marker pen’. Let’s take a look at Olicana.

This comes in three weights. I especially like the rough as it looks a little more realistic, like a fountain pen (who still writes with those – I have one!) or a quill. It comes with various ligatures (swirly bits) includinga splat of ink. Reminds me of Guy Fawkes. You can purchase it here or if you have Adobe CC you can download it.

“Extra extra..

read all about it…” if you’re old enough you’ll remember the TV slogan advertising a newspaper… no? Ah well – take a look at the slab serif typeface Stringer. Looks similar to the type used for newspapers in the past but with a modern look. Fancy another pub quiz fact? “Stringer” is a slang term for a freelance journalist.

Fonts for Dyslexia

I recently joined a webinar by Oliver Sch?ndorfer (Pimp My Type) with type designer Eleni Beveratou. It was an informative talk asking, “Are dyslexia fonts any good?” With their view on fonts designed for accessibility. It’s a good watch.

Become an Unsplash Contributor

How many times have we seen an image and said “that’s from Unsplash!” LOL. We all know about the photos, but they’re now asking for illustrations. You can sign up here.

The Birmingham Design Festival

The festival is back on the 6th - 8th June and there are still tickets available. The event covers workshops, talks, portfolio reviews… there’s a lot to see and do! See what takes your fancy here.

Come join me

If you’re up for some online coworking this month, I’m hosting a session on Tuesday 4th June for Freelancer Magazine. Get on some work, meet new people and have some accountability. It starts at 09:30 and we have two 45-minute sessions of focused work time and some breakout rooms for informal networking in the middle.

Things to do when you have nothing to do

We’ve all been there… quiet times are a natural part of freelance life. Other times you need to stop and take a breath. Here are some articles from Creative Boom that are well worth a read.

I start chapter 51 tomorrow. Yup! It’s my birthday. Here’s a birthday gift for you. I know, I know – I should be the one getting the presents! I’m offering a 10% discount on my services up until the 14th June. Book a call to find out more and quote “BIRTHDAY” for the discount ??

And I’m on the road again this coming month at Atomicon*. It’s a conference for freelancers and small business owners and it means I get a trip to Newcastle. Also at the infographic seminar Information Is Beautiful in London. Will I see you there?

Well, you got to the end! Thank you and have a happy month ahead.

?? I’m Angela Lyons and I am the founder and freelance graphic designer at Lyons Creative.

???? I specialise in both print and digital design, I aim to help businesses by creating compelling and distinct designs.

??I also help freelancers and share my experiences of freelance life.

?? Are you Interested in learning more about my services and how I can assist your business?

Please feel free to contact me via direct message. ??

*contains an affiliate link – I’ll get some cash if you use this link, but I only recommend stuff I genuinely think is awesome.