Typeface selection is important to the success of a blog. Your content might be great, but how much of an impact is it making if people can’t read it? An unappealing, difficult-to-read typeface will turn readers away, while the right styles and sizes can improve the look and readability of your blog.
Consider the following as you design your blog and choose the typeface that work best.
Company brands
Company brands often have a chosen typeface that remains consistent across all branding materials, including the website and blog. If you write a blog for a company that already has a brand in place, you may have little to no say over which typeface to use. That said, if you want to create a brand for your blog, typeface selection plays a big role. Choose a typeface that matches your brand’s style and message – for example, if you have a blog about custom metal fabrication, you might want a more modern, industrial look, and should choose the typeface accordingly.
Blog headlines
The blog’s headlines and titles are meant to draw readers’ attentions and let them know what the content is about. Headline text should have a bold, expressive typeface that is larger than the body text. A typeface like Verdana is not often used for headlines because there is too much spacing between characters, making it not as tidy to read when large. The most popular typefaces for headlines include Georgia and Arial.
Content body
For the body of the blog, choose a typeface that complements the headline and is easy to read. A body typeface that clashes with the headline can be hard on the eyes. Many websites use Arial, Georgia or Verdana in the body.
Other text
Don’t forget about the text for date headers, tabs, sidebars, menus and call to actions. Each of these plays key roles in your blog’s navigation and design, and should be in a typeface that makes them stand out without dominating the page.
Text size
The size of your chosen typeface is important – not only does a larger typeface help to draw attention, such as for headlines and call to actions, but they also determine the readability of your blog. Small typefaces create a light or dark texture to the text that can make it easier or harder to read, depending on the selection.
Letter spacing
Consider spacing between characters as well as spacing between lines when choosing a typeface. Crowded characters can make for difficult reading.
Combining typefaces
You may choose to use one typeface for your headlines and a different typeface for your body, rather than simply changing the size. Be careful that the typefaces do not cause tension – for example, a headline with a playful typeface and body text with a more traditional, formal typeface will clash and create a conflict within the blog’s overall design. Keep the style consistent throughout the entire blog.
Most popular
Some of the most popular typefaces, according to Smashing Magazine, include Georgia, Arial, Verdana, Lucida Grande and Helvetica.
Least popular
Times New Roman and Baskerville are some of the least popular typefaces, along with the much-ridiculed Comic Sans.
Whether you write a blog about Web design or for a knife safety gloves manufacturer, the typeface you choose truly matters. What are your thoughts on choosing a typeface?
Photo © nebari – Fotolia.com