Slab Contrasted Nafo 3 is a bold, normal width, very high contrast, upright, normal x-height font.
Keywords: headlines, posters, branding, packaging, signage, playful, retro, quirky, architectural, graphic, distinctiveness, patterned texture, display impact, retro flavor, stencil-like, modular, cutout, geometric, monolinear feel.
A heavy, geometric display face built from broad strokes with slab-like terminals and pronounced internal cutouts. The forms are dominated by rounded bowls and squared shoulders, with consistent horizontal “notches” and ovoid counters that create a repeating, modular rhythm across the alphabet. Curves are smooth and inflated, while joins and serifs read as crisp blocks, giving the letters a constructed, almost assembled look. Spacing appears relatively open for such dark shapes, but the frequent voids and interruptions keep the texture lively and prevent large black masses in text.
Best used for headlines and short display settings where the carved counters and slab terminals can read clearly. It suits posters, packaging, and branding that want a retro-modern, decorative voice, and it can work well for signage or event graphics where distinctive letterforms matter more than continuous reading comfort.
The repeated cutouts and chunky slabs give the font a playful, mid-century display energy with a slightly mechanical, sign-like attitude. It feels cheerful and eccentric rather than formal, leaning into novelty and visual patterning. The overall tone is bold and attention-seeking, with a distinctive “puzzle-piece” rhythm that reads as designed and intentional.
The design appears intended as a high-impact display font that turns internal negative space into a primary motif. By repeating consistent cutouts across many glyphs, it creates a recognizable pattern and a strong graphic identity, prioritizing character and rhythm over neutrality for text-heavy use.
The horizontal cut lines can visually connect from letter to letter, producing a banded effect in words that becomes part of the overall pattern. Numerals and capitals carry the same carved-out logic, maintaining strong stylistic unity; the resulting word shapes are highly characteristic but less suited to small sizes where the internal gaps may close up.