Yesterday I wrote about retro designs on the web. A major factor in achieving that retro look is choosing the right typeface.
Today, as it’s Typography Friday here on Sitepoint, I want to follow it up with a pile of free fonts from some of the best retro font makers out there. There are a number of excellent font foundries providing retro fonts and often they’ll provide free typefaces to let you get a chance to see how good the quality is. I’ve picked out a few that you might find useful for your design work.
I was lucky enough to attend a talk by Rich from House Industries a couple of weeks ago and their work is amazing. The amount of care and research they put into their typefaces is incredible. To get their free fonts you must sign up for their catalog, which is also free.
Fontoville have some really nice work. Their fonts are distributed through Font Bros and that’s where you can get your mitts on some cool free typefaces like the one’s below. Font Bros h
Another particular favourite is Font Diner. Font Diner was launched in 1996 by typographer Stuart Sandler. He has created more than 400 typefaces and is heavily inspired by 1950’s culture. You can download over 30 of their fonts for free here, including the samples you can see below.
Girls who wear glasses have quite a few free fonts available for download and they also sell retro clipart. The site seems to be a little bit out of date but the fonts are good.
And finally, the Hitchcock font based on the iconic work of Saul Bass.
While it’s great to get fonts like this for free, it’s also nice to buy some fonts occasionally so these hard working typographers can pay the mortgage.
Do you like these fonts? Have you come across other font foundries producing cool retro work?
Frequently Asked Questions about High-Quality Retro and Vintage Fonts
What makes a font vintage or retro?
A vintage or retro font is characterized by its design elements that are reminiscent of a certain period in history. These fonts often have unique characteristics such as ornate details, thick strokes, and a distressed or weathered look. They are typically used to evoke a sense of nostalgia or to create a timeless feel in design projects.
How can I use vintage or retro fonts in my design projects?
Vintage and retro fonts can be used in a variety of design projects to create a unique and nostalgic feel. They are perfect for logos, posters, packaging, website design, and even in digital art. The key is to choose a font that complements the overall aesthetic of your design and doesn’t overpower other elements.
Are there any free vintage or retro fonts available?
Yes, there are many free vintage and retro fonts available online. However, it’s important to check the licensing terms before using these fonts in your projects. Some fonts may be free for personal use but require a license for commercial use.
How can I install a vintage or retro font on my computer?
Installing a vintage or retro font on your computer is quite simple. After downloading the font file, you just need to open it and click on the “Install” button. The font will then be available in all your design software.
Can I use vintage or retro fonts for my business logo?
Absolutely! Vintage and retro fonts can give your business logo a unique and timeless feel. However, it’s important to choose a font that is legible and aligns with your brand identity.
What are some popular vintage and retro fonts?
Some popular vintage and retro fonts include Gatsby, Baskerville, and American Typewriter. These fonts have unique characteristics that make them stand out and are often used in design projects to create a nostalgic feel.
Can I create my own vintage or retro font?
Yes, with the right software and design skills, you can create your own vintage or retro font. However, it’s a complex process that requires a deep understanding of typography and design principles.
How can I identify a vintage or retro font?
Vintage and retro fonts often have unique characteristics such as thick strokes, ornate details, and a distressed or weathered look. You can also use online tools to help identify fonts based on an image or sample text.
Are vintage and retro fonts still popular in modern design?
Yes, vintage and retro fonts are still popular in modern design. They are often used to create a nostalgic or timeless feel, and can add a unique touch to any design project.
Can I use vintage or retro fonts in digital art?
Yes, vintage and retro fonts can be used in digital art. They can add a unique and nostalgic feel to your artwork, and can be used in a variety of ways to enhance your designs.
Jennifer FarleyJennifer Farley is a designer, illustrator and design instructor based in Ireland. She writes about design and illustration on her blog at Laughing Lion Design.
