Resources
This is an ongoing list of some of the books I rely on for reference, technique, and inspiration.
Click on the image or title for link.
Slab Serif Type is Louise Fili's newest reference book. Great if your lettering is looking wimpy and in need of some bulking up! Also, I designed the cover!
The Encyclopedia of Monograms contains a huge reference library. If you buy one monogram book, it should probably be this one.
Script Lettering for Artists compiles street typography from across the Italian peninsula.
The Grammar of Ornament
Universally regarded as the classic reference book on Victorian aesthetics as well as an important visual synopsis of the major forms of decoration.
Shadow Type is great for dimensional type inspiration.
Speedball Textbook is a fun little book on lettering, with a few great monoline scripts thrown in.
Scripts is another must-have from Louise Fili and Steven Heller. This one is on scripts.
I love Art Nouveau and I'm not ashamed of it. Art Nouveau Designs in Color by Mucha is pure eye candy despite there being virtually no typography.
2,100 Victorian Monograms is a a great monogram book, though it stays pretty squarely in the Victorian period, as the title suggests.
Bickham is the granddaddy of formal, copperplate scripts, and The Universal Penman is his magnum opus. Full of amazing script and ornament inspiration.
Euro Deco is and amazingly comprehensive collection of Art Deco design across Europe.
American Wood Type is a really amazing collection of wood type and ornaments.
Graphique de la Rue consists of page after page of gorgeous type from the streets of Paris, collected and curated by Louise Fili.
Script Lettering for Artists is another small but mighty book. Tons of great technique tips for drawing roundhand scripts.
Borders, Fames and Decorative Motifs is one of my go-to books for borders.
The Elements of Typographic Style is quite possibly the most important typography book of all. Essential for setting type.