Table of Contents
1. What is a Display Font?
A display font is a type of font used to attract attention. Designers use the font in titles, posters, or advertisements. This display font has a unique shape that is different from the regular font used for text.
Characteristics of Display Fonts
The size is larger than regular fonts, making this font easy to read even from a distance. The shape is unique and interesting, some are bold, italic, or decorative. Used for short text, usually for titles or logos.
The Difference Between Display Fonts and Body Text Fonts
You will use a display font for text that you want to highlight. Meanwhile, you will use a body text font for long text. For example:
- Billboards or book covers use display fonts
- Books and long articles use body text fonts
Examples of Popular Display Fonts
Some examples of well-known and widely used display fonts are:
- Impact, people usually use it for internet memes.
- Cooper Black, a font with a bold and classic look.
- Lobster, a font with an elegant handwritten style.
You can use a display font to make your text more attractive because this font has a unique shape. However, do not use this font for long text because it will make it difficult to read.
2. A Short History of Display Fonts
Designers have been using display fonts for billboards, newspapers, and books for a long time. Over time, the design of these fonts has evolved to follow current technology and design needs.
The Beginning of Display Fonts
People started making large letters for print ads in the 18th century. They used bolder and more striking letters than regular text. The printing press also helped display fonts become more widely used in various media.
The printing industry boomed in the 19th century and many companies wanted to attract buyers’ attention by using display fonts. They started using display fonts on shop signs, posters, and newspaper ads.
Display Fonts in the Digital Age
Computers began to change the world of typography starting in the 20th century. Designers can start to create and use fonts easily. Many companies have also started using custom fonts for their logos and advertisements.
The Internet also helped the development of display fonts. Display fonts have evolved from old-school print to the digital age. Today, designers can choose from thousands of fonts from a variety of sources. Fonts like Impact and Lobster have become popular in digital media.
3. Types of Display Fonts
Display fonts have many types, and each type has a different shape and style. Some fonts look classic and some are suitable for modern designs. Choose a font according to your design needs.
Serif Display Font
This font type has small lines at the ends of the letters, and the letters look elegant and classic. Designers usually use Serif display fonts in posters, logos, and luxury designs. Example:
– Playfair Display, this font looks elegant and suitable for magazines.
– Lobster, this font has a unique handwriting style.
Sans-Serif Display Font
This font does not have small lines at the ends of the letters. Sans-serif display fonts look modern and simple and designers usually use them in digital design and advertising. Example:
– Bebas Neue, this font has bold and strong letters.
– Impact, Internet memes usually use this font.
Script Display Font
This font resembles handwriting and is suitable for elegant and artistic designs. Example:
– Pacifico, a font that looks soft and casual.
– Dancing Script, this font looks like neat handwriting.
Decorative Display Font
Special-themed designs usually use this font because this font has a unique and creative shape
Example:
– Jokerman, this font has a unique and interesting shape.
– Curlz MT, a font that has letters that are curved like decoration.
4. When and How to Use Display Fonts
Display fonts are very effective in certain situations because they can make a design more attractive if used correctly.
When to Use Display Fonts?
Titles and Headlines
Display fonts are great for headlines because they are large and eye-catching.
Logos and Branding
Many big brands use display fonts to create a unique identity.
Posters and Banners
Movie, event, or promotional posters often use display fonts because they look striking.
Product Packaging Design
Attractive packaging can increase the appeal of a product because display fonts make labels more recognizable.
Social Media and Digital Content
Social media posts often use display fonts to grab the attention of the audience.
How to Use Them?
Choose a Font That Fits the Theme
Use a display font that fits the design concept. For example, script display fonts for elegant designs and sans-serif display fonts for a modern look.
Don’t Use for Long Paragraphs
Display fonts can be difficult to read when used in long texts. So, use them only for important elements.
Use Contrasting Colors
Make sure your display fonts stand out against the background of your design because contrasting colors will improve readability.
Adjust Size and Spacing
A type that is too small or too tightly spaced can make text difficult to read.
Pair with Other Fonts
Use display fonts with simple fonts to keep your design balanced and professional. You can use display fonts sparingly for best results, but make sure the fonts are easy to read, fit the theme, and aren’t overdone.
5. Tips for Choosing the Right Display Font
You need to choose the right display font to improve the quality of your design.
Choosing a Display Font
Adjust to Size and Spacing
Some display fonts look good in large sizes but are difficult to read in small sizes, therefore choose the appropriate font.
Pay Attention to Readability
You need to choose a font that has high readability.
Match the Design Theme
Make sure the display font matches the theme of your project. Modern fonts are suitable for technology, and classic fonts for elegant designs.
Don’t Use Too Many Types of Fonts
Use a maximum of two types of display fonts in one design layout to keep your design look clean and professional.
Pay Attention to the Emotions
Each display font has a certain impression. Script display fonts look elegant and decorative display fonts can look fun.
Resources for Finding Display Fonts
You can find various display fonts on several websites that provide display fonts according to their usage license. Some of these websites are Google Fonts, Adobe Fonts, DaFont, Font Squirrel, or you can find them on our website. Choose a display font that fits your design, and use trusted resources to get high-quality fonts.
