Flex Experimental laser cut type design

For the SF10x10 project – celebrating a decade of Superfried – I developed a new numeral style to complete the final ten selected. The new set worked well as part of 10x10, but deserved a project of its own.

I am always looking for new design techniques and mediums, so this time, rather than taking the typography into C4D to develop 3D renders I decided to create the bespoke numbers for real. Legendary art and craft supplier, Fred Aldous had recently created a laser etched sign for the Superfried studio door, so when they said they were keen to collaborate on a project, I jumped at the chance.

Despite being around since 1886, Fred Aldous have moved with the times and accurately laser cut my numeral designs in translucent neon and black perspex – something I had always wanted to do. The results were awesome. With the laser cut numbers, counters and cutout backdrops it was possible to create a variety of new, different and unexpected design styles. Ironically, after all of the effort many assumed the photographs were 3D renders anyway!

To continue the experimentation further, After Effects was employed to create simple animation effects using the trim paths technique.