Lettering to the Max

Lettering to the Max is Ivan Castro’s follow-up to The ABC of Custom Lettering, approaching the art of creating distinctive hand-drawn letterforms from a less technical perspective. This beginner-friendly workbook first outlines the essential tools and materials, then uses a wealth of samples, sketches and drawings to explain, step by step, how to produce compelling letterforms. The basic principles of lettering are covered in detail, from understanding letter structure and anatomy to giving letters shape and expression.

Practical exercises then guide readers to create fun compositions, hone their skills and develop their own ideas. In-depth but accessible, this is an invaluable guide for budding lettering artists, with plenty of insight for experienced and professional designers too.

Read our interview with Ivan Castro.

About the author

Ivan Castro is a graphic designer based in Barcelona, Spain, specialising in calligraphy, lettering and typography. His work spans advertising and editorial, packaging, logo design and gig posters. Ivan claims to have no specific style, but his work shows a strong respect for the history of popular culture. He has worked in the field for more than 20 years and has taught calligraphy and lettering for more than 15 years at leading design schools in Barcelona. He travels frequently, holding workshops and giving lectures at design festivals and conferences. He is also the author of The ABC of Custom Lettering.

Foreword by Alex Trochut

Alex Trochut was born in 1981 in Barcelona, Spain. After completing his studies at Elisava Escola Superior de Disseny, Alex established his own design studio in Barcelona before relocating to New York City. Through his design, illustration and typographic practice, he has developed an intuitive way of working that has resulted in his expressive visual style.

Also by Ivan Castro

The ABC of Custom Lettering