What is the Right Font Size?

I have previously written about type fonts and the need to get them right in your printed materials.

In particular that article looked at the three key business criteria of:

What is your Goal?

Legibility

Readability

Legibility and readability touched on the use of type fonts, but that is an area which is deserving of a more in depth look ….

The right font size for any given printing project can vary widely but it is crucial in determining whether your marketing material gets read or not.

And, to revisit your ‘goal’ it is to capture the reader’s attention and offer information in the simplest way possible.

Guidelines to follow in selecting your font size:

Generally you should select your font size based on the amount of words you have and the space you have to fill them.

For brochure printing and other marketing material, the fonts that capture the most responses … don’t go under 10 point. Smaller font sizes are harder to read so it’s best to stick with a size higher than this, if possible.  

  

Headlines are best at around 12-14 points for maximum effectiveness, whereas for body copy type fonts under 12 point work well – as a larger size can tire the eyes.   

•  Use bigger type in areas that need emphasis  such as headlines or quotes
•  Be consistent in your font size use … if your body copy is set at 11pt, then stick to it

The size of your font is as important as the style of font chosen and it is critical in drawing the reader’s attention longer than a split second.

And, of course, it is always advisable to discuss your requirements with your Printer!