Type - What's in a Word?
Words are
essential on any scrapbook page - and
the way you use them can make or break a
layout. Computer fonts are one of the
most popular ways to create journaling
blocks and titles. Great titles can also
be created using any of the digital
titles you will find in the
CottageArts.net CD’s or Page Paks. These digital titles can
have a very realistic hand cut or die-cut feel by simply
placing a small shadow behind them. Choosing just the right
font to meet the needs of your layout can sometimes be
tricky - here are some tips on how to get the
most of your collection of fonts.
KEEP IT SIMPLE. Limit the number of fonts you use on
a layout to no more than three. More than three will
generally clash with the harmony of the layout.
USE ONLY ONE SPACE AFTER A PERIOD. In typing class,
you probably learned to put two spaces after every period.
With computer fonts, only one space is necessary and creates
a smooth flow.
GET THE LEAD OUT. Leading, or the space between the
lines in a block of type, can greatly affect the readability
of your journaling, generally double or single lined spaced
is best.
A title can set the mood for your entire page. When choosing
a style or font for your title, select one that conveys the
emotion of the layout and make sure it is easy to read. The
more complex font you choose, the shorter your title should
be. Below are explanations of the two categories of
typefaces, script and display,
SCRIPT typefaces are exactly as they sound: script or
cursive style. From the very elaborate to the highly
stylized, script faces are perfect for adding extra elegance
or drama to a page. But, keep in mind that script faces can
be hard to read when used for large blocks of journaling.
DISPLAY or decorative type incorporates everything in
the type world that’s fun and unique. Display type gives
scrapbookers unlimited choices for their pages. You will
find a typeface for almost every mood or theme you can dream
up. Using the font names as your guide is generally a good
place to start choosing, as most are titled very clearly to
match a mood or theme.
Written by Beth Ervin,
Design Team Member, CottageArts.net
