Type Specimen Examples
The following are a few professional and student examples of type specimen books. By no means are these the only good examples out there. There are plenty out there. Showing these examples should act as a catalyst—not a way to copy what has been done. Inspiration can be taken elsewhere. It doesn’t have to come from other type specimen books. These show strong layout and hierarchy, concepts, execution, craft, and/or interesting papers.
Bird Grotesk demonstrates the full range of the typeface at varying sizes, the math behind letterforms, and the unique interaction of strange bird illustrations. 1 color on newsprint. Small slip/card with other information around the pages.
This is a great example of a student type specimen book. Again, the use of 1 color (w/ multiple opacities) is not a disadvantage. The designer used some kind of translucent material like mylar or vellum to create an almost foggy translucency on the type.
A mix of orange, gray, and cream paper makes for nice contrast and distinction for each section. This is designed well and has great, light-hearted content. We get to see the typeface used in a variety of sizes and ways. Imagery is also implemented. Martha Stuart’s face is a halftone which smartly reflects the ball terminals that Archer is known for.
The Didot type specimen book is another great example of student work. Conceptually strong as the designer uses the association of Didot with fashion and sources her imagery appropriately. 1 color which is fitting for the subject. The large letters spell out Didot. The use of the typeface is limited to a paragraph with a drop cap. I would like to see more range out of it.
Another great student piece. I wish the quality of photos was better but I chose this one because it’s good, dynamic work and it shows a lot of variety. Also, the concept for the book is great. The student writes about it.
- Caecilia which was designed by Peter Matthias Noordzij and named after his wife. To leverage this little fact, I decided to personify the type as a fun, seductive, and sophisticated woman. Throughout the book, the type is treated in a flirtatious and slightly sassy manner.