Support Independent Type II Redefines Editorial Design

A bold celebration of editorial design through independent type specimens. Discover fresh trends and inspiring typography.

Support Independent Type II isn’t just a book—it’s a statement. Designed and edited by Lars Harmsen, Marian Misiak, and Pola Małaczewska, the follow-up to the acclaimed 2020 volume deepens its dive into the thriving world of independent type design. Published by Slanted Publishers, this edition brings editorial design to life through tactile innovation and cultural relevance.

What sets this book apart is its role as both visual catalog and conceptual manifesto. Across 288 pages, it features over 300 independent type foundries, pushing back against the monolithic norms set by corporate distributors. These aren’t just fonts—they’re philosophies, each shaped by the hands of designers committed to experimentation and authenticity.

The book’s editorial format highlights the power of design in storytelling. From experimental digital layouts to physical type objects, Support Independent Type II operates as a fully immersive design experience. Uncoated and transparent papers by Reflex Paper and open thread-stitching by Buchbinderei Spinner make the book feel more like an artifact than a typical publication. Each detail is considered—from the offset printing with spot colors by Stober Medien to the dust jacket wrapping a softcover with exposed spine.

Editorial design here is not background—it’s the message. The specimen layouts are purposeful, the typography bold yet functional, allowing each typeface to communicate its own narrative. The book doesn’t just showcase fonts—it curates a cultural dialogue on how typography influences identity and expression in an increasingly digital landscape.

For designers, art directors, and typography enthusiasts, this book is a vital reference. It doesn’t just catalog trends—it contextualizes them. It proves that independent publishing can still spark inspiration and innovation, especially when crafted with intention.

Want to see the full list of foundries or grab a copy? Head to Slanted Publishers.

Credits

Editorial design artifacts

Image from the Support Independent Type II Redefines Editorial Design article on Abduzeedo