Typography

What is typography and how can it impact your designs for the better?

Typography involves not only the fonts designers use, but the way they design them as far as color, size and placement. The appearance of digital and printed material is greatly influenced by type choices.

While the terms “font” and “typeface” are often used interchangeably with typography, they are not the same. Typography is more of an art form, encompassing all the elements related to the way words, numbers and symbols appear on the page.

A typographer might design a unique font to use for a particular client. They also might utilize one already in existence but tweak it to better suit their needs.

Types of Typography

Although typography encompasses a wide range of styles and terms, there are some distinct differences in the styles. For example, you might utilize italics to add stress or bold to grab user attention. Designers can go with all caps, lowercase letters or use a combination of the two.

One of the most interesting aspects of typography design is coming up with an arrangement for the symbols that has more meaning than the words alone. Even the color you choose can type into reader psychology and impact your conversion rates.

How to Pair Fonts

Another aspect is the selection of fonts you use and how you combine them to create an impact. Designerly identifies four basic font types, including serif, sans-serif, script or decorative. We also offer suggestions for how to pair different fonts together.

Understanding the intent behind each font type and how it can create a mood helps you come up with typographical designs users relate to.

Our articles on typography will help you learn the basics you need to take your design skills to the next level. We cover topics for beginners and advanced designers.