OUGD504 - Design for Print - Production Research

In order to communicate my concept of IN/OUT through the production of the book, I researched into publications that use unconventional features.

Sagmeister - Made You Look, 2001

The red sleeve deceives the eye due to the filtered colour. I could use this to reveal the type out of context which would be stimulate the audience. I spoke to the traditional print technician at the college, enquiring about inks that can only be seen through filtered glasses.

Unfortunately such an ink wouldn't be available to me for this project so I researched into other possibilities. Other ways in which I can relate the production of the book to my concept is to use glow in the dark inks so that the character can only be seen in the dark. However, this wouldn't be practical for daily use. 

• Lemon juice on paper - Once the juice is dry, burning it with an iron or flame will burn the type into the paper. This process is simple and will offer unique visuals that show the typeface in a completely different context. 

• White crayon - Painting over wax crayons with water colour reveals the writing.

• Laser cutter - Cut the shape of the character out of stock so that the audience can see through the letter onto the next page. 

• Embossing - I can custom the embossing plate using the laser cutter and traditional print room. 

• Rubbings - Take rubbings from different environments around Bristol where the images were taken. Concrete, wood, metal, fabric, signs. This will give the audience an idea into the context of Bristol. 

• Digital - Using the Adobe Creative Suit software will allow me to edit images and manipulate the typeface. 

• Sewing - Sewing letters into paper and fabric and then scanning them into Mac. 

• Collage - Juxtaposing type with images - I can rip the paper, scrunch it, or cut it. 

• Word Search - Inspired by Anna Ahnborg, Fade into you / Can you read me, People of Print

An intriguing experiment into how one can appropriate the use of typography to censor something private or personal. Combining minimal design with an array of visual contrasts, the intelligent concept is undoubtedly powerful enough to successfully channel the less is more aesthetic, challenging perceptions as the receiver is forced to subvert their known way of reading and thus immerse themselves within the text to unveil the concealed messages.

This is a perfect example of why breaking Tschichold's typesetting principles can be beneficial to the publication. in order to fulfil an abstract and contemporary concept which gives me confidence to be expressive with my publication.  

• Printing

Taking a letterform from it's original location and applying printing techniques will abstract it's context. This will strengthen my concept. 

• Photocopying/Scanning

Photocopying paper and collages will allow me to digitally manipulate the hand made medium, providing more opportunity for smart visuals.