Classic English Roundhand O & A Oval Body Shapes

"When most people are taught how to make an 'a' in Roundhand, it is created like an 'o' attached to a stem (like an 'i' without the dot). It is taught that way because thats the easiest way for beginners to learn. Unfortunately, most people continue to make it this way all their lives. This sort of 'a' is adequate at small sizes, say, anything under 24 point (1/4 inch); however anything larger and the 'a' begins to show problems. The reason for this is the 'a' is not actually an 'o' attached to a stem. Let's look at the letterform in greater depth.

In this comparative graphic, notice that the right-side of the 'a's oval is flattened slightly to allow for a more harmonious conjunction with the stem. Also, the oval of the 'a' is slightly more inclined than the 'o' to enable the body to conjoin higher on the stem. These two alterations are subtle, but produce a much more pleasing & balanced character.

Also note that the shades are not in the exact center of the x-height, but slightly below the medial line to lower the optical center of gravity and produce more stable looking characters."

~ 2014, Don Marsh~
©2014 Don Marsh