Formulate aims to provide shining examples of modern typographic shapes for young people learning how to write and read. The design process was an exploration in finding the basic shape of a letter as it exists in today’s context. I researched how children are taught to write and how the examples and references given to them can help or hinder this milestone.
I also studied some of the neatest handwriting I could find and found that much of it followed modern typographic conventions and construction like high x-height and even proportions. These were features that I didn’t see much of in my review of existing alphabet and writing worksheets, which meant there was a gap for me to fill.
The variety of styles in the Formulate family are designed to help teachers (or homeschooling parents) create modern practice sheets for their students. Of course, the origins and intention of a typeface shouldn’t be a limitation, so even if you are not involved with the design of teaching materials, Formulate is great to try out in any design where you need friendly, rounded forms.