Typefaces in Graphic Design

I’m sure by now, after learning about the two kinds of typefaces, many of you have noticed the different types of fonts used on billboards and advertisements. Whether they are a strong bold sans serif or a simple, elegant serif typeface—signage may utilize one, if not both typefaces at the same time. A good rule of thumb is to make sure each of your fonts are indeed different in some way.

Let’s start off with the example below.

Notice how the text manages to transition, back and forth, from a serif to a sans serif typeface. Although several different font families are used, the overall message can be understood and the text is also given character. However, using this many typefaces is not recommended. Although it is a bit cliché, when it comes to graphic design, less is definitely more.

When it comes to choosing fonts, using different font families is probably the most prominent method for graphic design. Just as you see in the example above, make sure each of your typefaces have some sort of difference between them. Even though a majority of the text is made up of a serif typeface, simply changing the typeface of the word "Mother" to a sans serif typeface has truly made this frame come to life.

Let’s take a look at one last example.

Despite both typefaces being sans serif, simply adding a bolder font or even just changing the font style to “bold” will make your message just as effective. 

Now go on out, create your design, and make a statement! 

Typefaces: Serifs vs. Sans Serifs

As one of my favorite elements in graphic design, fonts can really give your designs meaning. In fact, they can even make or break the professionalism of just about any written work. Choosing the right font is crucial if you want your audience to grasp the concept and tone of your message. Just look at the font you’re reading right now. Is it easy for you to read and understand this paragraph? Does it flow? Is it too bland for your tastes? These are the types of questions you may want to think about when you decide to use fonts for just about anything.

In total, there are two typefaces to choose from. Each has thousands of styles to utilize. These typefaces are called serifs and sans serifs, which you may actually have seen before.

Serifs

Adapted from “schreef”, the Dutch word for “line”, serif fonts can often be identified in many books, newspapers, and documents. The reason behind the meaning of the word is due to the distinct set of lines placed upon each letter.

For example:

This is Times New Roman. A serif font many of us are familiar with. Notice the small lines on the edges of each letter. Compare this with Arial, the font I’ve originally been using. It is said that these particular lines allow greater readability as opposed to sans serif fonts. However, that is still to be disputed, depending on each person’s preferences.

Sans Serifs

As you can see, these have become my personal preference due to their cleaner and more spacious look. They are derived from the French word “sans”, meaning “without”, which is why they lack the lines we’ve seen from serif fonts.

Sans serif fonts are often found within many advertisements, posters, and comics. When creating graphic designs, this is the recommended typeface to catch the eye of your audience due to the enormous amount of serif fonts we see in most published works.

Now that you’ve learned about these two typefaces, I hope for many of you to grow more aware of them. What you choose to do with the style of each font is up to you.