The Space Between: Why Kerning Can Make or Break Your Design
- DOLD Studios
- Jul 15
- 2 min read
In the world of design, details matter and sometimes, it’s the space between that makes all the difference. At DOLD Studio's, we obsess over the smallest elements, and one of the most powerful yet overlooked design elements is kerning.
Kerning refers to the spacing between individual letters in a word. It’s a subtle but essential adjustment that ensures your text looks balanced and visually pleasing. It’s not to be confused with:
Tracking: The overall spacing across a group of letters
Leading: The vertical space between lines of text
Kerning is all about precision — and in branding or visual design, precision defines professionalism.
Why Kerning Matters in Design
1.
First Impressions Count
Typography is often the first visual interaction users have with your brand. Poor kerning can make a professional logo feel amateur, while great kerning builds trust and polish.
2.
Legibility & Readability
Tight or inconsistent kerning can confuse readers.
In logo design, even a small misalignment can change how people perceive a brand.
3.
Emotional Response
Design isn’t just about function — it’s about feeling.
Well-spaced letters create harmony and clarity. Bad kerning creates friction, even if the viewer doesn’t consciously know why.
Real Examples from DOLD Studios
Let’s take the Gourmet Sub logo as a case study. During the design phase, we explored how type spacing influenced brand perception. With tighter kerning, the brand felt more youthful and energetic. With wider kerning, it leaned toward minimal and premium.
The final result? A fine-tuned balance that reflects both freshness and identity — the Gourmet Sub way.
Tips from Our Design Team
Always kern display fonts manually. Auto-kerning isn’t always reliable.
Zoom out. If something feels “off” when small, it probably is.
Watch for common problem pairs: T & o, A & V, W & a, etc.
Use tools like Figma, Illustrator, or InDesign for granular control.
Final Thought
Kerning is more than just adjusting space — it’s about attention to detail, balance, and brand clarity.
At DOLD Studios, we believe design lives in the details. Whether you’re creating a logo, building a layout, or designing for motion, never underestimate the power of the space between.
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