How to install fonts on Windows and Mac

Before you install

When you download free fonts for scrapbooking, they usually arrive packed inside a ZIP file. You cannot install a font directly from a zipped folder. You must extract or unzip the folder first to see the files inside.

Once you open the unzipped folder, look for files ending in TTF or OTF. These are the actual font files your computer needs. You might also see text documents with license information.

Unlike digital scrapbook papers which are JPG files, or digital elements and alphabets which are transparent PNG files, fonts are system files. This means you do not just open them in your software. You install them onto your computer system so all your programs can use them.

How to install fonts on Windows

Installing fonts on a Windows computer is a quick process. You have two different ways to add the TTF or OTF files to your system.

The fastest method uses the right click menu.

• Locate your unzipped font file.
• Right click the file.
• Choose Install, or choose Install for all users.

If you prefer to use your system settings, you can drag and drop the files instead.

• Open your Windows Settings.
• Go to Personalization and then click on Fonts.
• Drag your unzipped font file and drop it into the designated box.

Both methods do the exact same thing. Your new font is now saved to your Windows system and ready to use.

How to install fonts on a Mac

Mac users also have a very simple method for adding new fonts. macOS uses a built in program called Font Book to manage all your text styles.

Follow these steps to add your new file.

• Locate your unzipped TTF or OTF file.
• Double click the font file.
• A small preview window will open.
• Click Install Font in the Font Book window.

The Font Book application will automatically copy the file to the correct system folder. You do not need to drag files into any hidden system folders yourself.

After installing your fonts

Once your fonts are installed on your computer, you might expect them to show up in your software immediately. However, most programs load the font list only when they first open. You must restart the program you scrapbook in so it sees the new font. Simply close your software and open it again.

If you are wondering how to make a digital scrapbook page in Canva, you should know that Canva handles fonts differently. Because it is a web based program, it does not read the fonts installed on your computer. Canva free accounts cannot upload fonts. A paid plan can upload custom fonts directly into the Canva workspace.

As your collection grows, remember that too many installed fonts can slow some programs down. A font manager can switch sets on and off. This keeps your computer running smoothly while giving you access to the styles you need.

Understanding font licenses

Before you use a new font on your scrapbook pages, it is a good idea to check the font license. Most free files come with a text document explaining how you are allowed to use them.

Many crafters look for fonts under the SIL Open Font License. Fonts under the SIL Open Font License can be used for personal and commercial projects. This means you can use them for your own albums, or on pages you plan to sell.

Other files might be restricted to personal use only. Always read the terms provided by the creator. If you plan to share your work, keeping track of your licenses helps you organize your digital scrapbook stash properly.

Using fonts on your scrapbook pages

Now that your fonts are installed, you are ready to add journaling and titles to your pages. As a general reference, the standard digital scrapbook page is 12 x 12 inches at 300 pixels per inch. This equals exactly 3600 x 3600 pixels.

When you type on a canvas this large, you will need to increase your font size significantly. A text size that looks normal on a standard letter document will look tiny on a 3600 x 3600 pixel layout.

Experiment with different sizes to see what looks best. You can also use digital alphabets alongside your typed fonts. Alphabets are transparent PNG files that you place like stickers, while fonts allow you to type out long paragraphs of journaling quickly.