Installing Custom Fonts on Your Computer: A Quick Guide for Mac & PC

Making Sure Your Files Display Correctly

If you’ve ever opened a beautifully designed document only to find that the fonts look wrong and the layout doesn’t quite line up, you’re not alone. This is a common issue, especially if you’re working with a designer or a web design agency on branded materials for your business.

If we’ve created a document for you that you’ll be editing or updating regularly, there’s a good chance some of the fonts we used aren’t installed on your computer yet. If you try to open or edit the file before installing those fonts, things might not display the way they should. That’s because fonts aren’t embedded in the file itself; they need to be installed on your device to show up correctly.

To keep everything looking the way it was designed, it’s best to install any new fonts before opening the file. The good news is that installing fonts is quick and easy on both Mac and Windows. Don’t worry, we’re here to help you through it!

How To Install Fonts on Mac or Windows

Here’s how to make sure your fonts are properly installed and ready to go.

On a Mac:

1. Download the font files (.ttf or .otf) we emailed you.
2. Double-click the font file. Fontbook will open automatically.
3. Click Install Font.
4. Open (or restart) your design or document app. The font should now appear in your list.

On a PC (Windows 7, 8, 10, 11):

1. Download the font files (.ttf or .otf) we emailed you.
2. Unzip the folder.
3. Right-click on the font file and click Install. You may be prompted to enter your password in order to complete the installation.
4. Open (or restart) your program. The font should now appear in your list.

Pro Tip: Create and maintain a dedicated “Fonts” folder on your computer for easy access. This makes it easier to reinstall fonts and keeps things organized when working on projects, and ensures that you don’t accidentally delete any font files when clearing out your Downloads folder.

Before You Share, Save as PDF

Even if your fonts are installed, someone you share the file with might not have them. The best way to preserve formatting is to export your document as a PDF before sending it off. This guarantees your design looks the same for everyone, no matter what fonts are installed on their device.

Build a Brand That Looks Good & Works for You

Every detail counts when you’re building a brand for your small business. From typography to color palettes, those little touches can make a huge difference in how your brand is perceived.

If you’ve ever found yourself Googling “I need a website for my small business” or comparing the best branding agencies for small businesses, you already know how overwhelming it can feel to manage all the moving parts.

Working with a small business graphic design team can make your life easier—and make your brand stand out. Let us focus on the nitty-gritty details so you can focus on your business and what makes it great.