Using Fonts and Typography in Brochure Printing

Font size
You can use different font sizes to separate and set apart different aspects of your copy on your brochure. Headlines, subheadings, and general copy are the three main text elements that relate to the font size. These different font sizes allow you to break up the different elements of copy on your brochure so your customers can visually find what they're looking for quickly.

For example, if you have a title or headline on your brochure, you will want to use a very large font to draw your customer's eye to that element first. The font sizes between your smallest and your largest text should be reserved for subheadings. Your smallest font sizes for brochure printing are typically reserved for general copy, which are usually between eight and 14 point fonts.

Font style
The style of your font, also known as the font face, is important as this element can set the tone for the entire brochure. There are two general families of fonts: serif and sans serif. Serif fonts have small elements like flags and tags that help the letters visually connect to each other. Sans serif fonts are simply font styles that do not include these flags and tags.

The easiest way to demonstrate the differences is to compare Times New Roman, a serif font, with Arial, a sans serif font. Take the time to write the same sentence twice in your favorite word processor and change the font face on the first sentence to Times New Roman and the other sentence to the Arial font. Notice the differences between the two fonts.

Use serif fonts in passages that are more than 2-3 sentences long. These font faces help draw the eye from one letter to the next, which is important in longer passages of text. Sans serif fonts are ideal for titles and subheadings, as they are bold and clear.

Font color
The last important element for brochure printing is your font color. The key here is to use a font color that is in strong contrast to the background color. You can use a color wheel to help choose which colors are most effective together. The last thing you want your customers to do when they look at your brochure is to have to strain their eyes to read the copy.