So Many Fonts...So Little Time - Page 2 |
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So Many Fonts...So Little Time - Page 2 |
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Many of us find the phrase "free fonts" to be a siren's call to peruse the web in search of a font or fifty that we just can't live without. Herewith, a cautionary note: If you should use a font that has a restriction that you didn't comply with, you could become liable for damages. Don't take this lightly. There are many people who recognize vast numbers of fonts from memory. Also, you put your printing company in a very difficult spot if someone recognizes the font and asks the company for proof of registration. There are 1000's of truly free fonts; use them or comply with the agreement that accompanies the font file. We'll all sleep better. Avoiding Some Common Pitfalls When using a font that you've found, be aware that it may have some problems when it is used in various graphic and layout programs. It may not embed properly or respond properly to formatting commands. To use the font may mean you will have to make some allowances or compromises in these areas.
Often, free fonts come with very limited character sets. Make sure that all the characters that you will need for your project are included (do you need bold, italic, numbers or punctuation?), and that they all print correctly at their final sizes. 
Be sure and embed the fonts in your document. Often, a Portable Document Format (PDF) file will give you excellent results and help eliminate problems with layouts and fonts. This file format can be created in Adobe Acrobat. The Acrobat Reader program cannot generate or edit these files, only read them. Garland Printing Answers Font Questions Bring all the fonts that you use in your documents with you to your printer. In the event that there is a problem with a font, having the whole font on hand can be a real time saver. For more on Fonts, Look at: Return to Hints and Tips Main Menu |
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Many fonts come in a zip file that includes some form of a "Read Me.txt" file. Be sure and read it. This will tell you if the font is actually free for every kind of use. Some fonts are restricted to non-commercial use. Others are "Trialware" or "Shareware" and have some restrictions on their use until a fee is paid.
The font may look just great on your monitor at 50 points, but when it gets on the page at 24 points, it may not do so well. Of course the problem can be seen at a smaller size and blowing it up several points, whereupon it begins to fall apart. This is not the fault of your print shop; the font just has a limited range.