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Newsletter Layout
Newsletters are typically divided into multiple columns. You can add and format text, graphics, and other objects within the columns. How the columns and information is organized makes the difference between and good and bad layout and whether you are successful in conveying important information. The "look" of the newsletter attracts the reader. The appearance of your newsletter is very important. Each issue of your newsletter should look the same. Choose a simple format and stick with it.
Parts of a Newsletter and their Design
Nameplate - the nameplate (or title) contains the name of the newsletter. The nameplate consists of the name, the subtitle, the origin of the newsletter and the date. A well designed nameplate has: A creative name. Don't call it "Newsletter”. or "Update". Think of a name that has to do with your school or mascot. A bold title that dominates the page. A name with one or two words, no more. A subtitle to explain more about the name. For example, if the name of the newsletter is “Wildcat News” a good sub title would be “Keeping students, parents and staff at William Allen School informed”. Subtitles help clarify who the audience is. Information telling where the newsletter is coming including who is putting it out and the school address, and phone number. The date of publication.
The Text - Two decisions need to be made. What style and size font? And how many columns? Do not use more than three font styles in a newsletter. Pick a font that conveys the personality of your newsletter. Be consistent. For example, always us the same font for titles, the same font for headlines and the same font for the body of the newsletter. Chose very basic fonts for story content. (Do not use Comic Sands for story content only for titles.) Fancy fonts may be used for titles as long as they are readable. Always make title fonts different than story content text.
Headlines – The text at the beginning of a story that describes each article Headlines are very important to your newsletter. The headlines must be well written and bold. List headlines and their articles in order of importance. Be consistent and use the same font for all headlines. Headlines should be larger than body copy but not overpowering Headlines in all upper case are difficult to read. A combination of upper and lower case works best Headlines should contrast with body text style, alignment, white space, and graphic accents so that they will stand out and not blend in with the body. Avoid using centered uppercase text that repeats the format of the headlines.
Body – The stories and images that make up most of the newsletter.
Footer – Space at the bottom of the newsletter for additional important information. This space could be used for the subtitle instead of putting it at the top of the newsletter. Font should be consistent with the title or header.