Graphic Design Rules: Entry #4

#2: Use Comic Sans… ironically

Comic Sans is a widely used font, known for its informal and playful appearance. However, it has also been widely criticized for its perceived unprofessionalism and lack of aesthetic appeal. Because of this, many designers recommend that Comic Sans only be used in a humorous or ironic context.

Comic Sans, with its whimsical appearance, may be appropriate for certain designs that aim to convey a sense of playfulness or humor, such as a children’s book or a birthday invitation.

However, in most cases, it is better to choose a more appropriate font that aligns with the overall tone and message of the design. For example, a more professional and elegant font may be better suited for a business proposal or a formal wedding invitation.

024 Thou shall not use display fonts for body copy

Display fonts are generally designed to be used in large sizes and for headlines or titles. They are often ornamental, with elaborate shapes and intricate details. In contrast, body copy fonts are designed for readability and legibility in smaller sizes and for extended reading.

Using a display font for body copy can negatively affect the readability and legibility of the text, making it difficult for readers to engage with and understand the content. The ornamental nature of display fonts can also make them distracting and tiring to read, particularly when used for long-form content such as articles or books.