The inspiration source for MFC Whitworth Monogram is an alphabet set from a vintage embroidery alphabets book, Alphabets Broderies No. 238 by N. Alexandre & Cie. What began as 26 referenced capital letters has been expanded to three sets of alphabets within a single typeface. True to the original reference, the Capitals are the stylized cursive capital letters in all their gorgeousness. The lowercase encapsulates the capital letters intertwined within rectangular frame. By enabling Stylistic Alternates and typing any lowercase letter, you get each letter encapsulated and intertwined within an oval frame. A handful of decorative forms are placed in the 0-6 numeral slots. Originally intended to adorn handkerchiefs and other linens, this digital revival opens it up to a whole new realm of possibilities. This is one of many monogram designs from the late 1800's to early 1900’s that is loaded with panache and intricate detailing.

The typography on a 1964 children’s activity book published by Whitman entitled “Build with Stencils” was in a bold, condensed design. The only problem was that the ‘rails’ [the parts that divide a letter into stencil pieces] were too narrow and would disappear at smaller point sizes. Widening the ‘rails’ just a bit greatly improved the appearance of the stencil characters. Play Day Stencil JNL is now available in both regular and oblique versions. In its day, the Whitman Publishing Company of Racine, Wisconsin published dozens of activity books for children, including a number of them with stencils. The company was a division of Western Publishers from the early 1900s through the 1970s, but went through a number of sales and name changes. Currently [as Whitman once again] it is owned by Anderson Press, and is known for its line of coin folders and books on coin collecting.

1950's style casual script.