Best Newspaper Fonts For Figma: Create Authentic Designs

Nov 8, 2025 by Admin 57 views

Hey guys! Ever wanted to give your Figma designs that classic, vintage newspaper vibe? Choosing the right font is key to pulling that off. In this article, we're diving deep into the best newspaper fonts you can use directly in Figma. We’ll cover everything from the characteristics that make a font look like it belongs in a newspaper to specific font recommendations and how to effectively use them in your projects. So, buckle up, and let's get started!

What Makes a Font a "Newspaper Font?"

So, what exactly makes a font scream "newspaper"? It's not just about picking any old typeface. Several characteristics contribute to that distinct newspaper aesthetic:

Serif Typefaces: Generally, newspaper fonts are serifs. Serifs are those little feet or strokes at the end of the letters. Fonts like Times New Roman, Georgia, and similar styles are the usual suspects. These serifs enhance readability, especially in long blocks of text, which is crucial for newspapers.
Readability: Above all else, a newspaper font needs to be readable. Newspapers pack a ton of information into a small space, so clarity is essential. The font should be easy on the eyes, even when printed in a small size and on newsprint paper.
Compactness: Space is always a premium in newspaper design. Therefore, fonts that are slightly condensed or narrow are often preferred. They allow you to fit more text into each line without sacrificing readability.
Classic and Timeless: Newspaper fonts tend to be classic and timeless. They don't follow the latest design trends but rather stick to tried-and-true styles that have been used for decades. This gives newspapers a sense of authority and reliability.
Good in Print: Historically, these fonts were designed to work well in print, particularly on low-quality newsprint. While we're using them in Figma now, their original purpose still influences their aesthetic.

When selecting a newspaper font, keep these characteristics in mind. Think about how the font will look in different sizes, weights, and contexts. A font might look great in a headline but be unreadable in body text, or vice versa. It’s a balancing act of aesthetics and functionality. By paying attention to these details, you can create designs that truly capture the essence of a traditional newspaper. The goal is to ensure that the text not only looks authentic but also remains highly legible, enabling readers to easily consume the information presented. After all, the primary function of a newspaper is to deliver news, and the font should support, not hinder, that mission. Therefore, choosing a font with a focus on readability and space efficiency is essential for creating effective newspaper-style designs.

Top Newspaper Fonts for Figma

Alright, let's get to the good stuff! Here are some top-notch newspaper fonts that you can use in Figma to create authentic and compelling designs. These fonts have been selected based on their readability, classic appearance, and suitability for newspaper-style layouts.

1. Publico

Publico is a fantastic choice for newspaper designs. It was actually designed for newspaper use, so it ticks all the boxes. It’s highly readable, has a classic serif design, and comes in various weights and styles, giving you plenty of flexibility.

Why it Works: Publico excels in both headlines and body text. Its clear letterforms and optimized spacing make it easy to read, even in small sizes. The different weights allow you to create a clear visual hierarchy, guiding the reader through the content. Plus, its design is rooted in traditional newspaper typography, ensuring an authentic look.
How to Use it: Use Publico for headlines to grab attention and set the tone. Pair it with different weights of Publico for body text to maintain consistency and readability. Experiment with different sizes and line heights to find the perfect balance for your layout.

2. Tiempos Text

Tiempos Text is another excellent option, known for its elegance and readability. It's inspired by Times New Roman but has a more refined and modern feel. This font is great for adding a touch of sophistication to your newspaper designs.

Why it Works: Tiempos Text is highly legible and has a timeless quality. Its balanced letterforms and subtle serifs make it easy on the eyes, even in long blocks of text. The font also performs well in both print and digital formats, making it versatile for various design applications.
How to Use it: Use Tiempos Text for body text to create a classic and refined look. Pair it with a bolder serif font for headlines to create contrast and visual interest. Experiment with different tracking and kerning settings to optimize readability.

3. Source Serif Pro

Source Serif Pro is a well-designed open-source font that’s perfect for newspaper-style layouts. It’s part of the Source family, known for its excellent readability and versatility. This font is a great choice if you're looking for a free and high-quality option.

Why it Works: Source Serif Pro is designed with readability in mind. Its clear letterforms and balanced proportions make it easy to read, even in small sizes. The font also comes in various weights, allowing you to create a clear visual hierarchy in your designs. Plus, being open-source means it’s free to use in both personal and commercial projects.
How to Use it: Use Source Serif Pro for body text to create a clean and readable layout. Pair it with a bolder sans-serif font for headlines to create contrast and visual interest. Experiment with different line heights and spacing to optimize readability.

4. Bitter

Bitter is a robust serif typeface that’s specifically designed for on-screen reading, making it an excellent choice for digital newspaper designs. Its slightly condensed letterforms give it a unique and modern appearance while maintaining excellent readability.

Why it Works: Bitter is optimized for screen readability, ensuring that text remains clear and legible even on digital devices. Its slightly condensed design allows you to fit more text into each line without sacrificing readability. The font also has a strong and assertive character, making it suitable for headlines and body text.
How to Use it: Use Bitter for both headlines and body text to create a cohesive and modern newspaper design. Experiment with different weights and styles to create a clear visual hierarchy. Pay attention to line height and spacing to optimize readability on screens.

5. Arvo

Arvo is a geometric slab-serif font that offers a unique and contemporary take on the traditional newspaper aesthetic. Its strong and bold letterforms make it a great choice for headlines and display text, adding a touch of modernity to your designs.

Why it Works: Arvo’s geometric design and slab serifs give it a distinctive and modern appearance. Its strong letterforms make it highly visible and impactful, ideal for headlines and callouts. The font also works well in both print and digital formats, making it versatile for various design applications.
How to Use it: Use Arvo for headlines and display text to create a bold and eye-catching effect. Pair it with a more traditional serif font for body text to balance the modern and classic elements of your design. Experiment with different sizes and weights to achieve the desired visual impact.

How to Use Newspaper Fonts Effectively in Figma

Okay, now that you've got some killer font options, let's talk about how to use them effectively in Figma. It's not just about slapping a newspaper font on your design and calling it a day. Here are some tips and best practices to help you create authentic and visually appealing newspaper layouts.

Establish a Clear Visual Hierarchy: Newspapers rely on a clear visual hierarchy to guide readers through the content. Use different font sizes, weights, and styles to differentiate between headlines, subheadings, and body text. This will help readers quickly scan the page and find the information they're looking for.
Pay Attention to Line Height and Spacing: Line height (leading) and letter spacing (tracking) can significantly impact readability. Adjust these settings to ensure that text is easy on the eyes. Generally, a slightly increased line height and tracking can improve readability, especially in long blocks of text.
Use Columns and Grids: Newspapers typically use a multi-column layout to organize content and make it easier to read. Use Figma's grid system to create a structured and balanced layout. Columns help break up the text and create visual interest.
Incorporate Visual Elements: Don't forget to include images, illustrations, and other visual elements to enhance your design. Visuals can help break up the text and make the page more engaging. Just make sure that the visuals complement the overall newspaper aesthetic.
Consider Color and Contrast: Color and contrast play a crucial role in newspaper design. Use a limited color palette to maintain a classic and timeless look. Ensure that there is sufficient contrast between the text and background to improve readability. Black text on a white or light-colored background is a safe and effective choice.
Embrace White Space: White space (negative space) is just as important as the content itself. Use white space to create breathing room around text and visual elements. This will help prevent the page from feeling cluttered and overwhelming.

By following these tips, you can effectively use newspaper fonts in Figma to create designs that are both authentic and visually appealing. Remember, the goal is to create a layout that is easy to read, visually engaging, and true to the newspaper aesthetic. So, experiment with different fonts, layouts, and visual elements to find the perfect combination for your project.

Examples of Newspaper Designs in Figma

To give you some inspiration, let's look at a few examples of newspaper designs created in Figma. These examples showcase different styles, layouts, and visual elements that you can incorporate into your own projects.

Example 1: Classic Newspaper Layout

This example features a classic newspaper layout with a multi-column grid, serif fonts, and black and white imagery. The design focuses on readability and visual hierarchy, with clear distinctions between headlines, subheadings, and body text. The use of white space creates a clean and balanced look.

Example 2: Modern Newspaper Design

This example takes a more modern approach to newspaper design, with bold typography, vibrant colors, and dynamic imagery. The layout is still based on a multi-column grid, but the design incorporates more contemporary elements to create a fresh and engaging look.

Example 3: Minimalist Newspaper Layout

This example showcases a minimalist newspaper layout with a focus on simplicity and clarity. The design uses a limited color palette, clean typography, and ample white space to create a sophisticated and understated look. The layout is highly organized and easy to navigate.

By studying these examples, you can gain a better understanding of how to use newspaper fonts and design principles effectively in Figma. Pay attention to the layout, typography, color, and visual elements to create your own unique and compelling newspaper designs.

Conclusion

So there you have it, folks! A comprehensive guide to using newspaper fonts in Figma. By understanding the characteristics of newspaper fonts, selecting the right typefaces, and following best practices for layout and design, you can create authentic and visually appealing newspaper designs that capture the essence of traditional print media. Remember, the key is to balance aesthetics with readability, ensuring that your designs are both beautiful and functional.

Now, go forth and create some amazing newspaper designs in Figma! Experiment with different fonts, layouts, and visual elements to find your own unique style. And don't forget to have fun along the way! Happy designing!