Figure 19. Sansserif typefaces
(1) Families. Typefaces that are similar, though not exactly alike,
are grouped into classifications known as families. For example, Gothic
is a family of typefaces, not a single typeface. Take another look at
figure 14.
(2) Type series. Notice that all the typefaces shown in that figure
share the elements of Gothic style, yet there are subtle differences
between Poster Gothic and News Gothic. Notice also that within a family,
a specific family member may vary in size. An example of this is the
Bodoni style shown in figure 13. All the sizes of a specific family
member are called a type series.
b. Type Units of Measure. Type size has two units of measure, points.
(height) and pica (line length).
(1) Points are the unit of measure that describes the height of
letters. One point is equal to 1/72 of an inch. For example, a letter
1/2 inch high (36/72) is 36 points, 1/4 inch high (18/72) is 18 points.
To determine the height of letters, measure from the top of a capital
letter to the bottom of a small letter.
(2) Pica is the unit of measure that describes the length of a line
of letters. A pica is 1/6 of an inch, thus, there are 6 picas to the inch.
c. Weight. Letters are also classified based on the relative weight
of the lines you use to construct them. The three weights in general use
are light, medium, and bold. There is no unit of measure for these terms.
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