Typefounding

Typefounding is the process of creating metal type, the individual sorts or pieces of metal used in letterpress printing. This involves casting molten metal, typically an alloy of lead, tin, and antimony, into molds called matrices. Each matrix contains the impression of a single character, number, or symbol. The alloy is chosen for its low melting point and its tendency to expand slightly upon cooling, which helps create sharp, well-defined type.

The process begins with a punch, a hardened steel rod with the character design carved in relief. This punch is struck into a softer metal, usually copper, to create a strike. This strike is then used to create a mold, the matrix, within a piece of type metal. Once the matrix is ready, it is placed in a hand mould or a typecasting machine. Molten type metal is then injected into the matrix, solidifying into a piece of type. Each resulting piece of type has a body of a specific size and a raised face of the character.

Historically, typefounding was a meticulous craft, requiring great skill and precision. The quality of the type directly impacted the clarity and aesthetic of printed text. With the advent of phototypesetting and later digital typography, traditional metal typefounding has become largely obsolete for commercial printing. However, it remains a significant part of printing history and is still practiced by enthusiasts and for specialized artistic or historical purposes. The skills involved in designing punches, crafting matrices, and casting type are still valued in the study of typography and graphic design history.