Typeface Design for Scripto
Variable slope as a design principle, not a defect
Scripto is a cursive typeface by Franck Jalleau rooted in research into handwriting rhythm and gestural trace. Rather than a uniform slope, it varies the angle and posture of individual characters so each word forms a lively, irregular silhouette. Most connections between letters arise from naturally compatible shapes rather than systematic linking; deliberate ligatures are reserved for rare cases such as doubled letters, where they add animation and variety. First designed in 1996, it won first prize at the Morisawa competition.
Set in Scripto
Insights
- Slope deliberately varies across characters, creating counterangles that distinguish Scripto from conventional cursive typefaces.
- Most connections between letters are incidental—shapes that naturally continue into neighbors—rather than engineered ligatures.
- Deliberate ligatures appear in rare cases such as doubled letters, where they add animation and visual variety.
- The design traces influence to cursive alphabets of ancient Rome while remaining contemporary in execution.
1 / 5Swipe
Keep exploring
Related cases
