While the “Old English” stands out in an unusual way for beauty and dignity it must at all times be used with the utmost discrimination. It does not lend itself ordinarily to showcard or poster work and finds its best purposes in connection with Christmas showcards or monogram effects. Jewelry, silverware and gift suggestions of the valuable variety express themselves to the highest advantage in the “Old English” alphabet.
A point to be remembered in using this alphabet, however, is not to combine capitals in one word. Capitals can only be used in connection with the lower case letters. Some of the other alphabets, more specifically the “Egyptian,” work out very effectively in “solid caps.” However, this effect can never obtain in the case of the “Old English.”
The alphabet as shown on the plate is self-explanatory as to combination of strokes. The letters may be made with the brush held at an angle square with the stroke, emphasizing the fine lines, or they may be made with the broad point pen, depending on the size desired.
This alphabet is the most time-taking of any to make and as it adapts itself to only limited purposes, should be used very rarely.
“OLD ENGLISH” CHART
Plates used by permission of Ely & Walker Dry Goods Co., St. Louis.