Kniff was designed and digitized by Emo Risaliti, distinguished Italian graphic designer, as a Font Bureau commission. He drew on extreme geometric styles of the nineteen-thirties to produce an Art Deco triumph, an ultimate in compact slabserif display.

The popularity of Kniff has grown smartly in Italian and European advertising; high-fashion couture and wine labels have proven to be particularly strong directions.

Among other uses, Kniff is recommended for Book use.