Show HN: Make cursed fonts like Times New Bastard (bastardica.mitpit.com)

Article summary

Bastardica is a web-based tool that allows users to create 'cursed fonts' by mixing, stretching, and squishing existing fonts. The tool uses Pyodide and fontTools to generate OpenType fonts that can be used in various applications. Users can combine multiple fonts with customizable effects, such as vertical scaling and offset. The resulting fonts can be downloaded and used for personal or commercial purposes, with the caveat that users must check the licenses of the original fonts.

Main themes

• font creation
• creative possibilities
• accessibility concerns
• license and usage
• captcha and security
• game design and applications
• typography and design

What commenters say

• The tool is entertaining and has potential for creative use, with some commenters enjoying the process of creating unusual font combinations.
• The use of cursed fonts can be problematic for assistive technologies, such as text-to-speech software.
• Some commenters suggest using cursed fonts as a form of captcha or to detect AI-powered text reading.
• The tool's potential for misuse, such as creating fonts that are intentionally difficult to read, is a concern for some users.
• The creative possibilities of the tool are significant, with some commenters sharing examples of unusual font combinations and effects.
• The importance of checking font licenses before using cursed fonts for commercial purposes is a practical consideration.
• The tool's ability to create subtle, 'off' effects, such as keming adjustments, is a key aspect of its appeal.
• The potential applications of cursed fonts, such as in game design or escape rooms, are being explored by some users.