INTRO
As part of our Social Changes class at UQAM, we were invited to explore how design can serve as a tool for transformation. Working in pairs, we began by studying a set of guidelines for socially conscious design. This theoretical foundation led to the creation of our own design brief, as well as the development of a unique, hand-crafted typographic font.
MANDATE
Our mission was to create a new typographic system rooted in a conceptual idea that challenges traditional design norms. We aimed to use the ordinary in extraordinary ways, choosing a paper clip as the basis for our font. The goal was to illustrate that design is not just about function or aesthetics—but about innovation, reinterpretation, and disruption.
RESULT
The final result is a typeface constructed entirely from the forms and curves of a paper clip, digitally refined and laser-cut into a reusable plastic stencil. Using this tool, we meticulously hand-drew our full design brief onto a series of five posters. The posters serve both as a display of our typeface and as a manifesto of our creative values.
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PROCESS
We began with a brainstorming session using various ideation tools and quickly gravitated toward the unconventional use of a paper clip. From sketching the alphabet by hand to refining it digitally, we transformed a utilitarian object into a communication system. Every step, from design to laser cutting and hand-rendering, was collaborative and detail-oriented, reflecting the patience and care embedded in the design process.
This project was made in collaboration with taiyaba.
This project was made in collaboration with taiyaba.