NewsMachine’s newsletter tool makes it easy to stay in touch with customers and stakeholders. But designing a newsletter that’s both visually appealing and effective takes more than just great content — it requires attention to design details, from typography to layout.
Here are six essential tips to help you create newsletters that look great, read well, and drive engagement:
1. Prioritize clarity and consistency
Choose web-safe, easy-to-read fonts such as Arial, Verdana, Times New Roman or Georgia to ensure text displays correctly in all email clients. Keep a consistent font scheme throughout the newsletter:
– Body text: 14-16px for good readability on both desktop and mobile
– Headings: At least 22px to create visual contrast
Limit yourself to 1-2 font families for a clean and cohesive design.
2. Simplify to strengthen
A messy layout overwhelms the reader. Use plenty of white space to let the content breathe and make the message more digestible.
– Structure the layout with a grid system for balance and alignment
– Keep paragraphs short and clear – aim for 3-4 sentences max
3. Guide with visual hierarchy
Organize content using clear visual hierarchy to direct attention:
– Use bold, prominent headings to break up sections.
– Add subheadings and bullet points to increase scanability.
– Use color, weight, and size to create a flow that guides the eye to key messages.
4. Strengthen branding
Make sure the newsletter reflects your visual identity:
– Use your brand colors, logo and typography consistently
– Add a header image or banner that reinforces your visual identity
– Include company contact details and social media links in the footer for credibility
5. Create clear calls to action (CTA)
Every newsletter should have a clear purpose or next step.
– Use buttons or prominent links with texts like “Read more”, “Register now” or “Shop the sale“
– Keep CTA texts action-oriented and concise
– Place CTAs both mid-content and at the end for better engagement.
6. Test, optimize and stay accessible
Before sending your newsletter:
– Test in multiple email clients (e.g. Gmail, Outlook) to check formatting
– Optimize for accessibility: use high-contrast text, alt text for images, and avoid color-only navigation for those with color blindness.
This way, you not only improve the aesthetics but also the functionality, making sure your audience both enjoys and benefits from every edition you send. Remember, a well-designed newsletter can have a significant impact on how your message is perceived and acted upon.
Good luck with your design!
Get in touch to learn more about how to share information using our services: support@newsmachine.com