Re: Choosing Type

So, this might be an annoying thing to hear, but I think that choosing a typeface is a lot like choosing a mate: most of the time, you just know.

How do you know when you know? Somehow, you just...know.

I do think it's a lot easier to recognize that feeling of finding just the right typeface for a certain project after you've spent time with other typefaces.  This means you have to give yourself time to experiment and play the field.

Don't rush into anything, but do recognize that every project will present a different experience of finding the typeface that works.

Sometimes, it'll be love at first sight. That's it, that's the one.

Other times, it'll grow on you. I didn't really notice that one before, but it's really standing out now.

It's very possible you'll be totally turned off by it at first because it's so different from what you'd normally choose. Later, you'll appreciate that it challenged you. I guess you're just what I needed.

But, a word of caution:

As with people, you shouldn't waste your time with low-life typefaces.

Some might be trendy, but poorly designed. Fun for now, but I'm not really serious about it.

Others might be really attractive, but one-dimensional. But it's so pretty. 

Others might be too similar to your last project. Maybe it could change…maybe it wants to change...

Even though fooling around with novelty typefaces can be fun, only typefaces of the best quality deserve your love and attention for the projects that matter.

Since I've taken this metaphor way too far, I'll point you all to Type Connection to finish it out strong (Jen, you beat me to the punch with this one).

The bottom line is this: as I become a more experienced designer, I am learning that the typefaces in my tool belt don't have to be endless, but they do have to be quality. A well-designed typeface can go very far.