Font vs. Typeface - On Typographic Definitions
The distinction between the terms font and typeface mirrors the dual nature of type. On the one hand, type is a tangible, moveable kit - a collection of forms that can be used to create words. On the other hand, it is something abstract: a design that is representable in many formats and sizes. Font A font originally referred to one specific set of metal type. A metal font type can of course not be made larger or smaller, or rendered in italic or bold. So a font of metal type is just one type of design, in one style, at one weight and at one size. The cast letters are related to the technique of letter press printing, as it goes back to the 15th century technique that was developed by the German font developer and printing inventor Gutenberg. In letter press printing, the letters from a font were usually physically arranged in a lock-up, which was subsequently inked and pressed to paper to make a print. This technique was used well into the 1960s, leaving us with the remnan
