Font Review: The Cross Out for Editorial Design
There’s a moment in every editorial project when you’re staring at a blank page, trying to decide which font will best represent your content. For a lifestyle blog redesign, that decision often starts with the cover or the header. It’s not just about aesthetics—it’s about how the font speaks to your audience, supports your brand, and guides the reader through your content. That’s where The Cross Out comes in.
A Handwritten Font with Character
The Cross Out is a script handwritten font designed to bring a natural, organic feel to any layout. Its character is defined by fluid strokes, subtle flourishes, and a sense of movement that feels both intentional and effortless. This font doesn’t shout; it whispers, inviting readers into a more personal and intimate space. It’s the kind of typeface that feels like it was written by hand, capturing the essence of handwritten notes, journal entries, and creative sketches.
What makes The Cross Out stand out is its balance between expressiveness and readability. While it’s clearly a display font, it doesn’t lose itself in ornamentation. Each letter maintains a clear form, allowing it to work well in both large formats and smaller text sizes, depending on the context. This versatility makes it a strong contender for a wide range of editorial applications.
Real-World Use Cases for The Cross Out
In my recent work on a lifestyle blog redesign, I used The Cross Out for the header and article titles. The result was a fresh, approachable look that felt modern yet warm. It worked particularly well with the blog’s focus on personal growth and mindfulness, adding a touch of authenticity without overwhelming the reader.
Another example came when I was designing a recipe ebook. The Cross Out was perfect for the title page and chapter openers. Its handwritten style gave the book a friendly, conversational tone, aligning perfectly with the content’s goal of making cooking feel accessible and enjoyable. It also added visual interest to pull quotes and decorative accents throughout the layout.
For a wedding guide I recently created, The Cross Out was used as a secondary font for headings and section dividers. It complemented the elegant serif fonts used for body copy, creating a layered typographic hierarchy that guided the reader smoothly through the content. It wasn’t too bold, nor too soft—just right for the occasion.
Readability and Practical Considerations
While The Cross Out excels in display roles, it’s important to consider its limitations. As a script font, it may not be ideal for dense body copy or small text sizes. In fact, using it for long-form content could lead to eye strain or reduced readability, especially on screens or in print. That said, it works beautifully in short bursts—pull quotes, headlines, and decorative elements—where its expressive nature shines.
When pairing The Cross Out, I recommend using it alongside a clean, readable serif or sans-serif font for body text. This creates a harmonious contrast that enhances both design and usability. For instance, pairing it with a classic serif like Georgia or a modern sans like Montserrat can create a balanced and professional look while maintaining the unique personality of The Cross Out.
It’s also worth noting the font’s support for multiple weights and styles. This flexibility allows designers to adapt the font to different layouts and needs, whether it’s a bold headline or a delicate subtitle. Additionally, checking for ligatures and alternate characters ensures that the font performs well in various design contexts, from web pages to printed materials.
Editorial Identity and Branding
One of the most compelling aspects of The Cross Out is its ability to reinforce a publication’s identity. Whether it’s a digital magazine, a course PDF, or a printable planner, this font adds a layer of personality that can help differentiate a brand from others in the market. It’s not just a font—it’s a statement about the tone and values of the content it represents.
For example, in a coaching workbook I designed, The Cross Out was used to highlight key takeaways and motivational messages. Its expressive nature helped convey warmth and encouragement, reinforcing the emotional connection between the coach and the reader. It became a subtle but powerful tool in shaping the overall experience of the workbook.
When considering commercial use, it’s essential to verify the font’s licensing terms. Whether you’re using it in a paid newsletter, an eBook, or a downloadable template, ensuring that the font is properly licensed for your specific project is crucial. Most premium fonts like The Cross Out offer clear guidelines for commercial use, so always double-check before finalizing your design.
In summary, The Cross Out is a versatile, expressive font that brings a unique charm to editorial design. It’s best suited for headlines, pull quotes, and decorative elements, where its personality can shine without compromising readability. When used thoughtfully, it can elevate the visual appeal of your content while supporting your brand’s voice and identity.
