Graphic Design · Beginner level

Beginner level · Module 2 of 5 · 11 guided hours

Colour Theory and Typography

Choose colours and fonts that communicate well and are readable for everyone.

Learning objectives

  • Build colour palettes using colour harmonies
  • Check colour contrast for readability
  • Choose and pair fonts for hierarchy

Topics

  • colour wheel and harmonies
  • colour meaning and culture
  • HEX, RGB and CMYK
  • contrast ratios
  • typefaces and font pairing
  • type sizes and line spacing

Lessons

  1. Lesson 1 Colour Harmonies and Meaning

    Build palettes that look intentional and suit the message.

    hue, saturation, valuecomplementary and analogous60-30-10 rulecolour meaning

  2. Lesson 2 Colour Contrast and Accessibility

    Make sure text can be read by everyone.

    contrast ratioWCAG guidancecolour blindnessnever colour alone

  3. Lesson 3 Typography and Font Pairing

    Choose fonts that are readable and create clear hierarchy.

    serif and sans seriffont pairingtype scaleline length and spacing

Practical activity

Build a palette and type system for a local business and check every text and background combination for contrast.

Expected outcomes

  • Purposeful, accessible colour
  • Readable typography

Assessment

Palette and type sheet with contrast results reviewed.

Free taster lesson Color Theory & Typography Read a free self-study lesson on this topic in the Free Course Library.

Taught live by an instructor — online or in person. Free course lessons are for self-study and do not lead to a certificate — see registration options.