Independent type foundries set to be popular with designers

When shaping the visual language of brands and narratives, typography plays a crucial role. While well-known fonts and major foundries have much to offer, exploring independent foundries can provide experimental, unique, and expressive ideas for type.

Independent foundries are a great starting point for those seeking to shake things up. They not only boast impressive collections of typefaces but also embody the spirit of innovation and craftsmanship that propels type design forward. From bold, experimental styles to classic serif revivals, these studios are redefining the landscape of type design.

First on the list is Type of Feeling, the newest foundry launched this summer by Jessica Walsh, the CEO of &Walsh. Inspired by her own experiences in searching for typefaces for various projects, this foundry provides a curated collection along with custom typography services. Type of Feeling emphasizes the importance of unique typography in storytelling and brand identity. One standout typeface is Jubel, which means “jubilation” in German. Designed to evoke feelings of joy, its thick strokes and lively curves reflect a celebratory mood.

Next is Grilli Type, a Swiss foundry established in 2009 by No?l Leu and Thierry Blancpain. They create lovely mini sites for each typeface, showcasing the fonts in context to tell their own stories. One of their notable offerings is GT Super, inspired by display serif typefaces from the 1970s and 80s. Its flowing curves and distinctive character make it versatile for both headlines and body text.

OH no Type Co, founded in 2015 by James Edmondson, focuses on expressive and unique typefaces. Known for quirky fonts like Hobeaux and Cheee, they have also released more conventional typefaces such as Degular. Degular is designed to “fade into the background,” making it a valuable option for designers seeking understated elegance.

Then there's Dinamo, a Berlin-based studio that offers retail and custom typefaces along with design services. Their innovative approach includes a value-based licensing model and a commitment to research and experimentation. Dinamo's team frequently engages with the design community through lectures and workshops.

Fontwerk, also based in Berlin, focuses on high-quality, versatile fonts. Their philosophy emphasizes good design and the importance of both aesthetic and technical quality in fonts. One notable typeface is Nice, designed by Jan Fromm. It is inspired by baroque typefaces but updated for modern use, offering versatility across different design needs.

A collective worth mentioning is Velvetyne, which specializes in open-source font creation and dissemination. They focus on experimentation and accessibility, believing that typography should not be limited to the commercial market. Their playful typeface Typefesse embodies this spirit, combining the visual language of the human body with letterforms.

Lastly, Pangram Pangram Foundry has made a name for itself with its modern, charismatic fonts. Founded by Mathieu Desjardins in 2015, Pangram Pangram believes in the idea that mastery is forged through practice, allowing designers to explore their free fonts fully, with the option to purchase a license for commercial use.

These independent foundries offer a wealth of possibilities for anyone looking to explore new typographic horizons, each bringing its own unique perspective and innovation to the art of type design.