Who we are
BanComicSans.com is an educational resource about Comic Sans. We explore its origins, design, cultural impact, and practical use. We are not for or against the typeface; our aim is to provide context so people can make informed, thoughtful typography choices.
What we do
- Explain the history of Comic Sans and why it was created
- Offer practical guidance on when the font works well—and when it doesn’t
- Present perspectives from designers, educators, accessibility advocates, and readers
- Share research and real-world case studies about legibility and usability
- Curate notable moments from the public debate and pop culture
A brief history of Comic Sans
- 1994: Comic Sans is designed at Microsoft by Vincent Connare to match the informal tone of on-screen characters and speech bubbles. It didn’t ship in the original Microsoft Bob, but soon appeared in other products.
- Mid-late 1990s: The font is bundled with consumer software (including Windows add-ons and Office applications) and becomes widely available, leading to everyday, informal use far beyond its original intent.
- 2000s onward: Designers critique its overuse in serious or formal contexts, while others point to its approachable feel for children’s materials and informal settings. Accessibility discussions emerge regarding legibility and letterforms, with mixed research findings but ongoing interest from educators.
The history of this campaign
This domain became the home of a grassroots, tongue‑in‑cheek campaign urging people to be more discerning with Comic Sans. It featured a manifesto, posters, and merch, sparking headlines and lively debate in design circles and mainstream media.
The campaign’s core message was less about censoring a font and more about context: typography carries tone, and choosing the right typeface matters.
Over time, the conversation broadened from protest to pedagogy, influencing how many people think about design literacy and everyday communication.
Where we are today
Today, bancomicsans.com continues that conversation in a balanced, research‑minded way. We celebrate good typography, encourage respectful dialogue, and help readers understand both the strengths and limitations of Comic Sans—alongside the broader principles of type selection.