Type Handling Tips

• Do not use drop shadow on text, it is harder to read (and tacky).


• Do not put text over texture or an image, unless it is very large, bold and short.


• Break up copy into easily digestible blocks of text.


• Rule of thumb-limit your fonts to three per page! Just because you have a hundred fonts available doesn’t mean you should use them all.


• Do not crowd text. Use comfortable margins. Dense text is tiring to read.


• Longer lines require more leading (space between the lines).


• Avoid underlined text, it looks like an email link (and it is tacky).


• All caps is harder to read, use it sparingly (in heads or subheads). Do not use capital letters for emphasis within a paragraph, instead use bold text.


• Never stack your letters one over the other, it is extremely difficult to read. If you must use text vertically, rotate the entire word.


• Avoid “decorative” fonts. These are often hard to read and are generally a distraction from your design. There are many classic, beautiful, simple fonts. When in doubt, stick to the tried and true. After all, if your design has to rely on “creative” fonts for visual interest, then you do not have a strongly designed page!

When all is said and done, nothing promotes your business better than your direct contact with potential clients. Encourage viewers to call and or meet with you. For that matter, call me, Karen Rolnick at 917-971-9679, to discuss your design needs! I will be happy to answer your questions.

© 2009 Karen Rolnick Graphics