Graphics Reference
In-Depth Information
fuse. The weight of the face creates a tone on the page. The heavier the weight of the
font, the darker the tone generated. This acts as a signpost to the viewer and draws
their attention.
Most guidelines for signage suggest that type size should increase by 72 points or 1
inch for every 25ft (7.6m) from which the user views it. The Royal National Institute
for the Blind in the UK states: 'The lettering height is measured by the x-height of
the character set, which is the height of a lowercase x. The x-height is dependent on
the sight distance and is determined in millimetres by multiplying the sight distance
in metres by 57, but the x-height should not be less than 20mm.'
Many designers aim to use a limited range of weight and scale to provide a hierarchy
within the copy. It is considered unnecessary to increase both the size and weight of
type to create emphasis when one alone will suffice.
When using more than one typeface, aim to employ maximum differentiation
between the fonts. A serif and sans serif teamed up will be more efficient than using
two serifs, as the audience may not be able to distinguish between them as easily as a
designer can.
When establishing hierarchy through type it may be helpful to use at least two points
of difference between the text; for example, headings in large bold type and subhead-
ings in smaller, italic type.
Serif (left-hand column) and sans serif fonts (right-hand column).
CASE STUDY
Illustration in information design
