Font Pairing Guide for Beginners
If you're new to pairing fonts, follow these 10 tips to create the best font combination
1. Start with Contrast
Combine fonts with distinct differences, such as a bold sans-serif with a delicate script, or a modern serif with a geometric sans-serif. This creates a visually interesting dynamic.
2. Establish a Hierarchy
Use different font sizes, weights, or styles to clearly define headings, subheadings, and body text. This improves readability and draws attention to key elements.
3. Pair Fonts with Similar Moods
Ensure that the fonts share a similar emotional tone. For example, don’t mix a whimsical font with a formal one unless you’re intentionally going for contrast.
4. Limit to Two or Three Fonts
Stick to a maximum of two or three fonts to keep the design clean and cohesive. Too many fonts can overwhelm the design.
5. Use a Superfamily
Choose fonts from the same typeface family, which often includes variations like sans-serif, serif, and script styles. This ensures built-in harmony.
6. Check for Readability
Avoid pairing fonts that are too decorative or intricate for body text. Ensure all fonts are legible at various sizes, especially for key text.
7. Mix Weights and Styles
Combine different font weights (e.g., light and bold) or styles (italic, condensed) within the same font family for subtle variation.
8. Test Different Proportions
Pair fonts with contrasting letterforms, such as a tall, narrow font with a short, wide one. This contrast adds visual interest.
9. Balance Serif and Sans-Serif
Pairing a serif font with a sans-serif font is a classic approach that often works well because of the contrast between their structures.
10. Look for Inspiration
Study successful font pairings in design templates, magazines, or websites. Use tools like Google Fonts or font pairing guides to find combinations that work well together.
Experiment and trust your instincts—successful font pairing often comes down to practice and refinement!
All fonts shown here are part of the Big Fonts with Connector Bundle available for a limited time.
