Visual Design Solutions: Principles and Creative Inspiration for Learning Professionals

Chapter 6Working with Type

“Typography exists to honor content.”

— Robert Bringhurst

The Framework

THIS CHAPTER answers these questions:

• How can I tell typefaces apart?
• How do I select a typeface?
• How should I mix typefaces?
• How can I make text easy to read?

Typography is the art of designing with words and letters. The typeface you choose for learning and information content is a critical decision. Reading should be smooth and easy so it does not interfere with comprehension. Also, the design of type sends an impression, conveying what you want to communicate before the text is even read. The beautiful variety and range of typefaces provides a tremendous opportunity Io amplify your message.

Don't shy away from studying this building block of design. It is not difficult to grasp the basics of typography, and your eye will improve with practice. Like everything else in design, your choice of a typeface should be intentional rather than random.

In this chapter, you will learn to see letterforms in a new way. You will be given guidelines for making informed decisions about typography.

Difference Between Typeface and Font

Are designers snobs? Is there a reason they use the term typeface rather than font? Although some designers use these terms interchangeably, others would argue that this is incorrect usage. Here's the difference between the two. A typeface refers to the ...