I will make or break your Christmas card, party invitation, even your emails. We’re talking about typography.
Graphic Designer Melanie Burk has five tips to help you avoid typography tragedies.
FONTS OR TYPEFACES?
Most people do call them fonts, but the technically correct term is typefaces.
Type is all around us and is one of the most important principles of design.
Good typography enhances the message and the words of what are being spoken. Bad typography distracts from the message or product. And in today’s world, good design and a strong message is crucial- our world is increasingly visual.
Here are a few tips to help you when you design that party invitation, flyer, or write that Christmas card letter:
CONSIDER WHAT YOU ARE SAYING
Each typeface has a personality, a look, and it can change meaning completely.
Picking the wrong typeface can literally change the meaning of what you want to convey.
This example feels like a light snowfall…
This example feels like a blizzard.
Many people spend a lot of time writing these cards, and then oftentimes, no thought at all what typeface to use. So stop to think.
NEVER USE MORE THAN 2-3 TYPEFACES AT A TIME
This is one of biggest errors I see (especially on quote posters, etc).
Less is more. Too many typefaces really takes away from your message, and changes your focus.
Simplicity is stronger, and gives you more power and freedom.
This applies to wedding invites, Christmas cards, letters, etc.
USE DECORATIVE OR DISPLAY TYPEFACES SPARINGLY
We’re talking scripts and really fun, unique typefaces that are bold and exciting.
Do not overuse them. They are meant to be used a few words at a time.
Bad: writing a whole paragraph in script, or a whole title line on your blog.
Good: Using script in bits and pieces, to add punch.
WATCH SIZE & WHITE SPACE
In general, I tend to notice that typefaces online are far too small, while in print, people make it far too big. People read differently online. Standard web size for body font is 16 pts. For print (like a birthday party invite), your body text can be about 10-11 pts. Save the big size for exciting information. Remember it has to be readable.
In terms of white space, this means give your reader space. It will be like a visual breathe.
The most powerful companies understand white space really well, and that having more white space, draws more attention to your design and your information. It is more effective than a whole page of text.
NEVER USE TYPEFACES THAT CHEAPEN YOUR DESIGN
This means consider your use, and the purpose of the invitation.
Don’t use a curly, fun typeface for a legal document.
Don’t use a formal script, like you would use for a wedding, for a 2 year old party.
Also, don’t use papyrus or comic sans, ever. They are unreadable and overused.
If you are overwhelmed, I am here to help! I have compiled several lists of free typefaces { http://nicolesclasses.com/10-free-script-typefaces/} that I recommend, as well as list of typefaces that I call “condemned”{ http://nicolesclasses.com/condemned-typefaces-you-should-never-use/} (don’t use them) I also teach online typography classes.
Finally, there are the Christmas typographic gift tags you can download for free at nicolesclasses.com {http://nicolesclasses.com/free-christmas-typography-tags/}.
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