boldTurning

BoldTurning is a typographic technique that combines the use of boldface type with curved or diagonal text orientation to create emphasis and visual interest in printed and digital media. The method was first documented by the designer Mark Jensen in a 2020 article in the Journal of Contemporary Typography, where he argued that the interplay between bolder weight and a dynamic turn in the lettering enhances readability and aesthetic appeal.

In practice, BoldTurning involves selecting a key word or phrase, setting it in a bold typeface, and then rotating or curving the letters slightly—typically between 10 and 30 degrees—to produce a subtle “turn” that draws the eye. The effect is often used in headlines, branding, and advertisement copy to signal importance or to break visual monotony. Some design firms have adopted it as part of their visual identity guidelines, noting that it can convey confidence and forward momentum without overtly sensationalist language.

Critics have cautioned that excessive BoldTurning can impede legibility, especially at smaller sizes or on low‑resolution screens. As a result, best practice guidelines recommend limiting the technique to one or two focal points per layout and using high‑contrast typefaces to preserve clarity. Contemporary digital design tools now include presets for the effect, making BoldTurning accessible to both professional typographers and hobbyist designers.