Choosing Typefaces for Web and Print

Choosing typefaces is an important part of graphic design and branding. Familiar options such as Times New Roman or Calibri may be a starting point, but compare their readability and character with the project’s needs. Looking further, you find there’s a world of typographical options on your computer or cloud computing account: Arial, Helvetica, Georgia, Verdana, and so on. Sometimes you can never have enough typefaces. For typography options, you might need to look elsewhere.

On the internet, there are many typography sources. Not only websites advertising free fonts, but also those of type foundries. Plus you’ve also got Google Fonts, which offers a wealth of open source typography options.

Information cards demonstrating clear differences between headings and supporting text.
Concept illustration: information cards demonstrating clear differences between headings and supporting text.

Finding free typefaces

Check the licence supplied with each font rather than assuming that a free download permits every use. Obtain files from the foundry or an authorised distributor. For a website or print project, review the required styles, language support and file formats, then test the font in the intended layout. Readability and suitability matter more than the price alone.

If you’re on a strict budget and looking for a free typeface, go to Google Fonts. Families can be downloaded for local use or incorporated into websites; review the family’s licence and test how the chosen weights render in your design.

Choosing paid fonts and suitable licences

Established type foundries and marketplaces offer a wide variety of paid-for typefaces. MyFonts’ licensing guidance distinguishes desktop use from embedding fonts on websites and in other products. Buying a font does not automatically permit every application. Check the licence category, user allowance and any usage or renewal conditions for your project before purchasing. Compare the family’s styles and features alongside its suitability for print and screen.

Finding typography inspiration

For examples in use, explore Typewolf. This website has several Top 10s of typographical leanings. It also features alternative typefaces to, for example, Helvetica, Arial, and Gotham. It is well worth a read for catching up on the latest font fashions.

For more ideas, browse our introduction to sans-serif typefaces.

Dreamkatcha, 26 April 2017.