Metallikirjasintyypeillä

Metallikirjasintyypeillä is a Finnish term that translates to "metal typefaces" or "metal fonts." It refers to the traditional method of typesetting where individual pieces of metal, typically lead alloy, are cast with a single letter or character on their surface. These pieces, known as type or sorts, are then arranged by hand or by machine into lines and pages to form the text for printing. This method was the standard for printing from the invention of the printing press by Gutenberg in the 15th century until the widespread adoption of phototypesetting and digital typesetting in the late 20th century.

The process of creating metal type involved a complex system of casting and crafting. A matrix, a mold for the letterform, was first created. This matrix was then used in a mold to cast the metal alloy into the desired character shape on a raised surface called a body. The size of the body determined the point size of the typeface. Printers would then assemble these individual pieces of type into a forme, locking them tightly together for the printing press. After printing, the type was "distributed," meaning the sorts were returned to their respective compartments in the type case for reuse.

While largely obsolete for commercial printing today, metal typefaces are still appreciated by collectors, enthusiasts, and some artists for their aesthetic qualities and historical significance. Letterpress printing, which utilizes metal type, continues to be practiced as a craft, offering a tactile and artisanal approach to printing. The unique impression left by metal type on paper is often considered a mark of quality and character.