London-based graphic designer Eikou Zhang has developed an innovative decorative typeface called Nodoa that transforms traditional Chinese knotting techniques into a complete Latin alphabet. The project represents a unique fusion of ancient craftsmanship with contemporary typography, bringing the intricate art of Chinese knotting into the modern design world.
Zhang's journey began with a deep fascination for knotting that developed during his childhood in Beijing, China. Growing up in an environment where knotting craftsmanship was commonplace yet often carried stereotypical associations, the designer became captivated by both the hands-on practice and the cultural and historical significance of this traditional art form. His background in fashion design provided him with a unique perspective on how to approach letterforms through the lens of textile craftsmanship.
When Zhang decided to pursue a wider research project on Chinese knotting, he discovered a significant gap in contemporary reinterpretation of this ancient craft outside of fine art and fashion contexts. "As a practitioner in graphic design," Zhang explained, "I wanted to contribute ideas rooted in this discipline." This motivation led him to explore how traditional knotting techniques could be reimagined within the framework of modern typography.
To master the traditional craft techniques, Zhang relied heavily on "The Complete Book of Chinese Knotting: A Compendium of Techniques and Variations" by Linda Chen, along with other resources. Teaching himself the intricate methods from scratch, he made a crucial discovery: the cloverleaf knot possessed highly flexible and constructive qualities that made it an ideal core unit for his project. The strong structural characteristics of this particular knot resonated perfectly with the logical principles of modular type design.
The design process involved working with two distinct variations of the cloverleaf knot structure: the four-loop and three-loop configurations. Zhang began the painstaking process of analyzing which combinations could effectively construct the forms of a complete Latin alphabet. "Initially, four-loop alone limited curves like the letter C and S to the construction of straight directions," he shared. The addition of the three-loop knot proved to be the solution to this limitation, providing greater craft diversity while maintaining consistency within the established rules.
Developing Nodoa presented significant challenges that tested Zhang's patience and creativity. He reached a point where he questioned whether achieving a full character set would be possible. "The challenge was to keep the typeface consistent without making the letters too literal, while still letting the knot's characteristics come through," Zhang explained. Every connection between knots required extensive testing and experimentation. Through persistent trial and error, he methodically searched for ways to integrate the knot patterns into unique letterforms.
After countless hours of refinement, Zhang successfully constructed a comprehensive system of rules that formed the foundation for his ornate display typeface. The resulting letterset showcases remarkable delicacy and complexity that would be impossible to create through purely digital means. The handcrafted 3D version of the alphabet presents an even more intricate and impressive visual experience, demonstrating the true artistry behind the project.
Currently, Zhang is working on translating his handmade mastery into a complete digital version of the typeface. This process involves determining how to convert the project's physical essence into clear, functional on-screen forms. "The most fun aspect of the project for me is the dual physical and digital versions," Zhang noted. "They can be combined in layout design, with the handmade version showing different appearances depending on materials and media, and the digital version adding another layer of possibilities."
As he prepares to conclude this phase of the project, Zhang is considering creating a type specimen in the form of a comprehensive handbook. This guide would teach people how to tie the complete knotting alphabet themselves, making the traditional craft accessible to a broader audience. While the digital version of Nodoa does not yet have a fixed release timeline, Zhang is allowing the project to develop organically, much like his approach to working with string and knots.
Zhang hopes that Nodoa will provide audiences and designers with an opportunity to appreciate and understand traditional Chinese handicraft in whatever form the typeface ultimately takes. The project represents more than just a font—it serves as a bridge between ancient cultural practices and contemporary creative expression, preserving traditional knowledge while making it relevant for modern applications.
