Typography

During the next few weeks we will focus on Typography, which is the art of using text in a design. This is one of the most critical parts of designing documents. Text needs to be readable, comfortable, and fit within the overall design of the document. It's a big job, so let's start with a video from gcflearnfree.org:

Choosing Fonts

Your choice of font is arguably the most important part of typography. Fonts can drastically change the feel of a document and they are great at setting the correct tone. These three documents are exactly the same, except for the font. How does each one feel? Do you like one better than the other two? Why?

Serif Fonts

These fonts are used mainly in print projects that want a more traditional feel. Serifs are the little strokes on the ends of the letters. Times New Romans is a serif font.

Sans Serif Fonts

These are used in more modern designs and are the preferred font family for text on computer and phone screens. Sans Serif fonts do not have the serif, or little strokes, on the characters. This is a sans serif font, so is Arial. 

Typography Tips

1. Use a maximum of two fonts in your document. If you use more, it should be because your design demands it. For example, next week we will create a Lyric Poster which will probably use more fonts. This week, however, if you use too many fonts on your Wedding Invitation it will look busy and less-professional.

2. Stay away from fonts such as Comic Sans, Jokerman, Curlz, Brush Script, Kristen ITC, Papyrus, and Hobo. These are overused and scream "amateur". 

3. Use bold, italics, color, and size to create dominant text objects or focal points in your design.

 

Video Credit:

GCF Learn Free - Goodwill Community Foundation, INC.