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Want to create stunning charts that wouldn't look out of place on the Useful Charts YouTube channel? You're in the right place! Matt from Useful Charts recently shared a treasure trove of design wisdom with his Reddit community, and we've got the inside scoop. Whether you're a seasoned chart maker or just starting out, these tips will help you level up your design game.
Unlocking the Secrets of Useful Charts' Signature Style
Matt's charts are known for their clean aesthetic and easy-to-follow layouts. He achieves this signature look by adhering to a specific style guide, which he generously shared in a recent video. Let's dive into some key takeaways:
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The Power of Consistency: Matt emphasizes the importance of a consistent look and feel. He's transitioning to a maroon border for all his charts, creating a recognizable brand identity. For your own charts, consider choosing a color palette and sticking with it.
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Fonts That Pop: Font choice can make or break a chart's readability. Matt's go-to fonts are 'BAS New Regular' for titles and 'OS Grotesque' for body text. Experiment with different fonts to find what works best for you, but prioritize clarity and legibility.
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Borders That Frame Your Masterpiece: Creating a border is simpler than you might think. Matt uses a two-square technique: a large square filled with the border color and a slightly smaller square on top with a white outline. He then adds rounded corners for a touch of sophistication.
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Lines That Connect and Guide: Matt uses different line styles to represent various relationships. Solid lines indicate direct male lineage, while dotted lines represent connections involving females. He also uses varying line weights and arrowheads to convey different types of information.
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Spacing for Clarity: Proper spacing is crucial for visual appeal and readability. Matt recommends leaving three to four squares between elements, adjusting as needed based on the chart's density. Remember, consistency is key!
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Color Palettes for All: Matt recently tweaked his color palette to be more accessible for people with color blindness. He recommends sticking to eight core colors and avoiding placing red and green or blue and pink too close together.
Beyond the Basics: Additional Tips from a Chart Master
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Embrace Rounded Lines: Matt's a fan of rounded lines for a softer, more modern look. Most design software offers tools for creating curves and rounded corners.
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Master the Art of Layering: Layers are essential for organizing your chart and making edits easier. Keep your background on a separate, locked layer to avoid accidental shifts.
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Pay Attention to Padding: Ensure there's enough space between text and box borders for a polished look. Adjust font size or box dimensions as needed.
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Choose the Right Box Format: Matt uses two main box formats: a wider, shorter format for modern figures and a taller, narrower format for historical lineages. Choose the format that best suits your content and available space.
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Don't Be Afraid to Experiment: While Matt's style guide offers a solid foundation, don't be afraid to experiment and develop your own unique style. The most important thing is to create charts that are visually appealing, informative, and easy to understand.
Ready to Create Your Own Chart Masterpiece?
Matt's insights provide a valuable roadmap for anyone looking to create professional-looking charts. Remember, the key is to prioritize clarity, consistency, and accessibility. So, gather your data, fire up your favorite design software, and start charting!
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