Want to feel and be more effective in the way you express your values and political passions? It's fine to sit down with a friend or three, a big piece of thick paper and some markers, and commit your wishes to a sign with a slogan. Even better, get the young people you know involved.
It can't hurt, though, to make your sign clear, easy to read, and spelled correctly. That way, other people, as well as news and social media, are more likely to focus on your creation and give it a bit of attention. That's one of the reasons you're marching, right?


So many protest signs seem scrawled in a hurry. The passion shows, but the message is unclear.
When I was sent a review copy of Protest Stencil Toolkit by Patrick Thomas, I knew this would be useful for many people right now. Good for getting younger citizens of your household involved too.
The Toolkit is a book measuring 11 3/4 x 8 1/4 inches that contains 46 die-cut reusable stencils, perforated for easy use and re-use. The letters of the alphabet are included, of course. Some symbols featured are classics from great protest movements of the past and present. Use these, or whatever they inspire you to create, to make your own visual statements more powerful.

HOW FONTS PERSUADE

I also recommend the related book How to Draw Type and Influence People: An Activity Book by Sarah Hyndman, because I've never seen anything quite like it. Its 128 pages contain 200 illustrations (available in May).
This unusual creative activity book  is for anyone who is or might be tempted to become interested in the art and psychology of typography. After all, we're all influenced by the typefaces we see in ads and on posters and on protest signs and on the packages of what we are seduced into purchasing. When you're angry, you don't want to give the impression of weakness or silliness. The right typeface can bring up memories, trigger emotional responses, and persuade people in the direction of social change.


Knowledge is power, and knowing why specific fonts were chosen offers clues as to the effect they have on you  without your even realizing it. You can also learn to use this information to make your own written or printed statements (and protest signs!) more compelling. Who knew fonts could do all that?