Contrasting Type

Now we want to look at the various ways in which designers create contrast when working with type. Properly designed type uses contrast to organize information, guide the eye over the text, provide cues for what is important as well as to lend aesthetic appeal to the page. The point is to make all these things recognizable at a glance.

You can create contrasts with type by altering:

• Size

• Weight

• Structure

• Form

• Direction

• Color

Size

Extreme contrast in size is nothing to be afraid of. Push your type to the limit, then gradually bring the size back down if it feels like you overshot the mark.

Don't be afraid to make unimportant information small, such as the date of this newsletter. If someone needs to know, they can still find it.

The contrast of big over little can be overwhelming for smaller type...how long does it take you to realize what's underneath this header? Use this tendency to your advantage. Do we really care if Rainfish is incorporated or not?

This unexpected use of a letter-form creates a dramatic contrast of size.