Graphic Design · Beginner level

Beginner level · Module 2: Colour Theory and Typography · Lesson 3 of 3

Typography and Font Pairing

Choose fonts that are readable and create clear hierarchy.

In this lesson you will

  • Choose suitable typefaces
  • Pair fonts and set sizes and spacing

Key concepts

serif and sans seriffont pairingtype scaleline length and spacing

The lesson

Sans-serif fonts are clean and common on screens; serif fonts feel traditional and suit long printed text; display fonts are for short headlines only.

Pair two fonts at most — often a distinctive headline font with a plain body font — or use one family in different weights.

Set a type scale (for example 32, 24, 18 and 14 pt), keep line length around 45–75 characters and give lines enough spacing. Use properly licensed fonts, such as those from Google Fonts.

Step by step

  1. Choose a headline and body font.
  2. Set a type scale.
  3. Test readability at small sizes.
  4. Check the licences.

Practice activity

Create the type system for the business.

Expected result: A readable, licensed type system with a clear scale.

Check your understanding

  1. How many fonts should a design usually use?

    Show answer

    Two at most.

  2. What is a comfortable line length?

    Show answer

    About 45–75 characters.

Taught live by an instructor — online or in person. Free course lessons are for self-study and do not lead to a certificate — see registration options.