Introduction to Typefaces

Step 1: Is it a 'typeface' or a 'font'?

A typeface is like a big family of letters, numbers, and symbols. All the letters in the family look similar, but each member of the family can look a little different, depending on its size or style. This is where fonts come in. A font is one specific member of the typeface family, with its own size and style. So, for example, Times New Roman is the typeface family and Times New Roman 12 point bold is a font within that family.

Step 2: Why is Typography important?

Web typography improves the readability and visual appeal of the information you are presenting. Good typography leads to help communicate the message effectively and enhances the reader's understanding and engagement with what you're saying.

Step 3: What are some types of Typefaces?

There are a multiple categories of typefaces, but some of the most common include:

1. Serif - Serif typefaces are formal and traditional, characterized by small lines (serifs) at the ends of the strokes that form the letters. An example where this would be found is in Newspapers.
2. Sans-Serif - Sans-Serif typefaces are without serifs. This means that they lack the small lines at the end of the strokes and have a clean & modern appearance.
3. Display - This typeface is designed for use in large text, such as headlines and titles. It is decorative and eye-catching, meant to draw attention to the text.

These are just a few examples of the many types of typefaces available. There is a lot of variation within each category, and new typefaces are being created all the time.

Step 4: Looking at styles of typeface

Choosing the right kind of typeface is a tricky measure, although it is important that you do so. The style of your chosen typeface is also important as it impacts how it is perceived.

Weight is an extremely significant consideration when it comes to curating the correct typeface. Fonts can be thin or heavy with a lot of weight in-between. The most common weights to beginners are most likely to be bold & regular! You should know that a bold weight isn't the only way you can add emphasis onto a piece of text, another common way is Italics. Italics are simply slanting, they will be commonly used in movies, books or plays.

In typography, the term "faux styles" describes simulated styles that mimic the appearance of different typefaces or lettering styles. This can be achieved using a variety of methods, such as adding a bold or italic effect to a regular font or adjusting the letter spacing or line height to achieve the same effect. When a desired font or lettering style is unavailable or when a more affordable solution is required, faux styles are frequently used.