Don't Use Script Fonts in ALL CAPS

Please, please, please DON'T use script fonts in ALL CAPS. There may be a few exceptions but I've yet to see an example of a script face that looks good and is readable in all capital letters. If you feel you MUST use a script face in all caps, choose one that has few extra flourishes. You might be able to get away with all caps with one of these free script fonts:

• Dyspepsia - narrow, upright font but watch out for some of those tails such as Q, J, Z, L, and Y.

• Print Handwriting - these do better than cursive fonts for use in all caps

Be Careful When Mixing Script Fonts

Use caution when mixing two (or more) script typefaces in a single document. When in doubt, don't do it. Script fonts are often too distinctive and tend to stand out from other text and when two different scripts are on the same page they compete for attention. Sometimes script fonts come with companions.

Tone Down Using Ornate Script

Some script fonts have many extra curves, swashes, curls, and other exagerated features. Allow extra character or line spacing where necessary. Watch out for too many repetitions of overly ornate letters (especially capitals) in a small amount of space. Fancy fonts lose their effectiveness when too many loops and swooshes compete for attention. Looking for some fancy scripts with lots of flourishes? Try one of these free fonts:

• Alison - tame, formal script but with a nice flourish on the capitals
• Freebooter Script - lots of long ascenders, descenders, and other strokes
• Loki Cola - a look alike for the Coca-Cola script with flowing strokes
• Scriptina - lots of long tails and tall loops