Serifskrifter

Serifskrifter refers to a category of typefaces that include serifs, the small decorative strokes at the ends of letters. These features, along with contrasts in stroke width, are designed to aid the reader’s eye as text moves across lines. Serifskrifter are commonly used for book text, newspapers, and formal branding, and they remain a standard option in both print and digital media.

Typical serif designs are described by historical classifications such as old-style, transitional, and Didone. Old-style faces (for example, Garamond) tend to have warm, humanist shapes and moderate contrast. Transitional faces (such as Baskerville) show higher contrast and more vertical stress. Didone faces (for instance, Bodoni) emphasize very high contrast and refined, geometric shapes. Within the broader category there are also slab serifs, a subfamily with thick, block-like serifs that creates a sturdier appearance.

Key characteristics of serifskrifter include bracketed or unbracketed serifs, varying stroke contrast, and generally higher readability in long passages of text. The serif design guides the eye from letter to letter and line to line, contributing to legibility in dense typography. In modern use, serifskrifter appear in print publications and many websites, often chosen for editorial tone, readability, and tradition. Experts select specific families based on factors such as x-height, letter width, and relative boldness to achieve the desired impression and legibility across media. Notable families frequently cited in discussions of serif typography include Garamond, Times New Roman, Baskerville, Caslon, Palatino, and Georgia.