--
When
selecting type for your poster design, part of the fun is
getting to use display fonts and exploring the infinite
variety that are available.
--
Most
computers come with a basic font set -- including some of
the over-used typefaces below:
--
While
these fonts have obvious personality -- and may be tempting
to use -- we recommend selecting fonts that are less
gimmicky and more assertive and attention-grabbing (by
weight and letter design).
--
Of course
novelty fonts have their place -- particularly if your
poster is promoting something retro or a specific theme.
Otherwise, it's best to use classic block lettering and
fonts designed for posters and display.
Here are some
examples; but there are literally thousands of
others:
FONT
SIZES
--
Headlines
are usually set at the maximum point size that will allow
the line to fit on the poster sheet from margin to margin
(left to right). In posters, bigger is always better, since
posters are mostly viewed from a distance. You can always
use a condensed font if you have longer lines of text.
--
Fluctuating
the size of sub-headings will help set each line apart; and
allow the viewer to grasp multiple ideas (or line items) at
a single glance.
--
Many
display font characters have details that present legibility
problems at smaller sizes; therefore, don't feel you have to
use the same headline font for your explanatory text. It is
best to complement display fonts -- especially the novelty
ones -- with a simple serif or sans serif for text and key
information such as date, time, place, directions or
instructions.
--
Use
scripts sparingly -- for special emphasis only. Set scripts
at a minimum of 24 point, as most are hard to read at
smaller sizes. Also, one line of script is usually best; and
never, ever use them in all caps -- to be blunt, it looks
horrible and is impossible to read.
--
Below are
some examples of words found in font menus to describe
various weights and styles. You'll find these ammended to
font names (for example: Gill Sans ULTRA).
--
We've also
included several examples of color combinations. As a
general rule, keep in mind that contrast is the most
important thing in choosing ink colors as well as the
weights and styles of fonts.