Rollin' Out a Font Family + Install Tips
You’ve received your font family from us, or you have selected your brand’s fonts on your own. You have links to the download and don’t know what to do from here! It can be a real pain trying to figure out which one to use and how to even install it. Well, don't sweat it, because I'm here to break it down for you and give you the lowdown on how to navigate the font world like a pro like me! (Did you know, I studied font history and typography in college while launching my career almost 2 decades ago?)
File Styles you might see:
First things first, let's talk about the different font file styles you'll come across. The most common ones are TrueType (.ttf), OpenType (.otf), and PostScript (.ps).
TrueType (.ttf) is the most widely used font file type and is supported by both Mac and PC. It's compatible with most design software, so you can't really go wrong with this one.
OpenType (.otf) is another common font file type that's also supported by both Mac and PC. It comes with additional features like alternate characters and ligatures, which can come in handy for certain projects.
PostScript (.ps) is an older font file type that's not as commonly used today, but it's still supported by both Mac and PC.
There are also some font file styles that are specific to certain platforms or devices.
Embedded OpenType (.eot) is a Microsoft-specific font file type that's designed for use on websites. It's not commonly used for desktop use, so unless you're working on a website, you can probably skip this one.
Web Open Font Format (.woff) is a newer font file type that's designed for use on websites. It's not commonly used for desktop use, so unless you're working on a website, you can probably skip this one too.
Downloading Fonts:
Now that you know the different font file styles, it's time to download some fonts. There are plenty of websites to choose from, like Google fonts, Adobe fonts, and MyFonts. Simply search for the font you like, and then download it to your computer. Easy peasy.
Installing Fonts on a Mac:
Installing fonts on a Mac is a breeze. Just locate the downloaded font file on your computer and double-click it to open the font previewer. Then, click the "Install Font" button and you're done.
Installing Fonts on a PC:
Installing fonts on a PC is just as easy. Locate the downloaded font file on your computer and right-click it. Select "Install" from the context menu and you're good to go.
Let’s talk about web fonts and the platforms that have different libraries
The font options available on Canva and website platforms like Squarespace, Wix, and ShowIt can differ depending on the specific platform and the plan you have with them.
Canva is a graphic design tool that allows users to create various types of designs, including social media posts, flyers, and more. It offers a wide range of font options that can be used within the platform. Canva Pro subscribers have access to more font options than the free version.
Website platforms like Squarespace, Wix, and ShowIt are website builders that allow users to create and design their own websites. The font options available on these platforms will depend on the specific platform and the plan you have with them. Some platforms offer a limited selection of fonts that are included with the platform, while others allow users to upload their own fonts.
In general, website builders will have a smaller selection of font options compared to design tools like Canva, as website builders are primarily focused on building websites and not on the design aspect. However, some website builders such as Squarespace have a good number of font options to choose from and also allow them to integrate with third-party services like Typekit which has a good range of font options.
It's important to check the font options available on the specific platform you're using and choose the one that fits your design needs the best.
What do you do if your “font family” is not on the platform of your choice:
Using the same font consistently is really the primary and only choice in my mind, but sometimes, you need to have a backup when a platform you use for business doesn't accommodate your font. Determining a good alternative font if the platform you're using doesn't have your brand font can be a bit tricky, but there are a few things you can consider to help you make the best decision:
Look for a font that has similar characteristics: If you have a specific brand font that you're trying to replicate, look for an alternative font that has similar characteristics, such as the same width, x-height, and stroke weight. This will help ensure that your design still feels cohesive and consistent.
Consider the style of your brand: If your brand has a specific style, such as modern, elegant, or playful, look for a font that matches that style. This will help ensure that your design still feels on-brand.
Check for readability: Make sure the alternative font you choose is legible and easy to read, especially if the text will be on a smaller scale.
Test the font: The best way to see if the alternative font works well with your brand is to test it out in a real-world scenario. Create a design mock-up using the alternative font and see how it looks.
Look for similar fonts: There are plenty of web-based font identifier tools such as WhatFontIs, WhatTheFont and Fontspring Matcherator which can help you find similar fonts that match your brand font.
Use a font pair service: There are several font pairing services such as Google Fonts, Adobe Fonts, and Typekit which can help you find font pairings that work well together. These services are particularly helpful when you're looking for alternative fonts that complement your brand font.
BIG alternative, but worth noting. Sometimes you can create a graphic or image with your brand font, and then upload the image where you need to use that copy.
Now you are on your way to rollin’ out your brand font family! Let me know if you need any insight about choosing your brand font, or want our assistance in getting your font selections solidified based on our expertise.