Awesome Letters

We’ve used the modern alphabet in English writing since the 16th Century. Language lover RobWords explores how every letter from A to Z got its start, the hidden meanings in each one, how they’ve changed over the years, and even where we got the word “alphabet” from. The whole U, V, W story is fascinating.

Add your initials, a serial number, or other identifying text to your projects with these heavy-duty steel stamps. Hit them with a hammer to leave an impression in wood, leather, or soft metal. Each 36-piece set includes letters from A to Z, numbers 0 to 8 (9 is 6 upside-down), and an ampersand. Choose from 1/4″ or 5/16″ sizes.

These new LEGO Dots sets give you the parts needed to create messages and signs you can hang on your wall. There’s a 531-piece Message Board, a 943-piece Big Message Board, and a standalone 722-piece kit that’s all about Lettering in different typefaces.

Express your thoughts or personalize a space with this handmade concrete text from Betonic Home. The 2″ tall letters are deep enough to stand on their own and can be ordered with magnets if you want to place them on your fridge. Sold in sets of four or more letters.

Taipei-based 22designstudio created these brutalist concrete characters based on a font by designer Haniboi. The 3D letters measure about 2″ h x 1.2″ l x 1.2″ w, and are sold individually so you can make whatever word you want with them. Because of import costs, the price drops substantially if you buy in quantity.