Page:Standard lettering (IA standardletterin01claf).pdf/44

 A few general observations here will be helpful. One should not refer to lettering printed from type as a model for spacing. While some careful typesetting can present the effect of correct spacing, it is usually not practicable, and often impossible. The following is an example. In the word



either in the Gothic or Roman Capitals it is not possible to have the space between the L and T appear equal to the other spaces unless the whole word should be spaced out more than the regular run of the composition, which would be just as bad.

In hand lettering a greater flexibility is possible. In the case of the L and T in the word "MILTON," for example, the arm of the T can be placed directly over the foot of the L or they can be made to overlap if necessary to insure a uniform appearance in the spacing.

Another common difficulty in spacing is encountered in the word LAW.

In hand lettering the base of the L is usually shortened, as is the foot of the A, in order to place the two letters as close together as possible, thus reducing the intervening space to a minimum,

The chief thing to bear in mind in spacing is to keep the areas of the spaces between the letters as apparently equal as possible.