Flagsmith
Scribble Tone · 2014
A novelty typeface built around OpenType ligature substitution, converting typed words into flag shapes and patterns drawn from a library of over 100 forms and 1,000 alternates.
About
Created in collaboration with Portland studio Always With Honor, Flagsmith repurposes the keyboard as an interface for flag construction rather than text setting. Standard and discretionary ligatures chain inputs into geometric shapes that can be layered and mixed to produce unique flag compositions. Web licensing is unavailable owing to inconsistent browser support for the OpenType features the system depends on.
Classification
A novelty display typeface designed to construct flag shapes and patterns via OpenType substitution rather than convey readable text in a conventional typographic sense. Its primary function is decorative and pictorial.