Letter Stacks

When different letters share the same shape, you can optionally stack them together into concentric circles. This is another stylistic choice in Circular Gallifreyan that helps create more compact, readable designs. Stacking is different from double letters - doubles combine the same letter twice, while stacks combine different letters that share the same base shape.

Why Use Stacks?

It's all about aesthetics and readability:

• Creates more compact designs by reducing the number of separate shapes
• Makes words with similar-shaped letters easier to read
• Adds visual interest with concentric circles of varying thickness
• But it's optional - you can write "DEPTH" with separate D, P, and T circles if you prefer

Core Rules (When You Choose to Stack)

1. Shared Shape Stacking

• Letters with the same base shape (like S, T, and R - all circles) can stack together
• Each letter keeps its unique identity with varying stroke weights (line thickness)
• Each letter keeps its individual decorations (lines are drawn for each)
• Stacked letters form concentric circles, with the outermost being thickest

2. Stacking Limits (This Site)

• Consonants: Maximum of 3 letters per stack
• Vowels: Maximum of 2 letters per stack (E, I, and U only)
• Center vowels only: Only E, I, and U can stack (they're positioned at the center of circles)
• A and O can't stack because they're positioned outside/inside consonants, not at the center
• No mixing: This site uses either doubles OR stacks, not both at the same time. Choose one approach for your design.

3. Stacks vs. Doubles

Understanding the difference is key:

| Feature | Doubles (AA, BB, LL) | Stacks (S+T+R, E+I) | |---------|---------------------|-------------------| | Letters | Same letter twice | Different letters, same shape | | Stroke weight | Same thickness | Varying thickness | | Decorations | Shared (drawn once) | Individual (drawn for each) | | Visual | One shape + marker | Concentric circles |

Rules in Practice

Why Stack? Compare STRENGTH

The word "STRENGTH" has S, T, and R - all circle shapes that can stack. Compare the difference:

Notice how each letter in the stack maintains its own stroke weight and decorations.

More Stacking Examples

Practice: Letter Stacks

Can you read these words with stacking enabled?

Advanced Stacking

Try reading these more complex examples:

Want more practice? Check out the Practice section for additional exercises.

What's Next

You've mastered double letters and stacks! Now let's combine multiple words into sentences with word circles.