“By changing the shape of the letters so that each is distinctly unique, the letters will no longer match one another when rotated, flipped, or mirrored. Bolder capitals and punctuation will ensure that users don't accidentally read into the beginning of the next sentence.”

— Christian Boer



Dyslexia typeface 2015 sketch, by Riona Moore

While Dyslexia is a condition that's yet to be included in any of my design briefs, I got thinking about it after UAL student Riona Moore sent me an email sharing her final year project — the creation of a typeface as an alternative to these:

Dyslexie Font, by Christian Boer

Open Dyslexic

Those two options are both free to download, and the majority of reports I've seen are positive. Co.Design's John Brownlee says don't believe the hype, but I've read comments on a number of sites from people with dyslexia who say the typefaces are easier to read than standard computer options. While it seems like not everyone with the condition is helped, it's good enough for me if some people are.

A sample of Riona's type design can be seen here. If you have (or know someone with) dyslexia, she'd love your feedback.

All the best with your project, Riona. Great subject choice.

Related elsewhere:

Typefaces for dyslexia, from the British Dyslexia Association