Show HN: Chart.xkcd – Xkcd-styled chart library (github.com)

Article summary

Chart.xkcd is a chart library that plots 'sketchy', 'cartoony' or 'hand-drawn' styled charts. It is designed to be easy to use and provides a simple API for creating charts. The library is open-source and has been released under the MIT license. It uses SVG to render the charts and can be used to create a variety of chart types, including line charts.

Main themes

• xkcd styled charts
• chart libraries
• SVG rendering
• open-source software
• licensing
• performance optimization

What commenters say

• The library fills a gap in the market for a chart library with a simple API and a hand-drawn effect, as existing libraries have limitations.
• Some users are concerned about the library's performance and file size, and suggest server-side rendering or optimization as potential solutions.
• The use of xkcd styled charts can be beneficial for conveying trends and ideas in a more approachable and less precise way.
• There are existing libraries and tools that offer similar functionality, such as D3 and matplotlib, but they may not have the exact same features or style.
• The library's author is open to feedback and is actively working on optimizing the library's size and performance.
• Some users question the need for a new library when existing ones could be extended or modified to achieve the same effect.
• The library's unique style and simplicity make it a valuable addition to the available charting options, despite potential drawbacks.