Typeset Limitations and When to Use Alternatives
Learning Objectives
By the end of this chapter, you'll be able to:
- Spot when Typeset isn't the right tool for your project
- Know when Canva offers better solutions for your design needs
- Recognise when manual design methods work best
Introduction
Typeset works well for many design projects, but it's not perfect for everything. Sometimes you'll hit a wall where you need more flexibility, creativity, or specific features that Typeset simply can't provide.
This chapter shows you how to recognise these moments and choose better alternatives. You'll learn when to switch to Canva for more design freedom, and when manual design gives you the control you need.
Lessons
Recognising Typeset's Limitations
Here are the main signs that Typeset might not be right for your current project:
Limited customisation options
When you can't achieve the specific visual style you want, despite trying different approaches within Typeset.
Restricted layout flexibility
If your design needs complex arrangements or dynamic layouts that Typeset's templates can't handle.
Font limitations
When the available fonts don't match your project's requirements or brand guidelines.
Collaboration needs
If you need multiple people working on the same design simultaneously.
Advanced graphic elements
When you need complex illustrations, custom icons, or sophisticated visual effects.
When Canva Works Better
Switch to Canva when you need:
More design elements
Canva offers thousands of templates, graphics, and design assets that Typeset doesn't have.
Better customisation
You can modify colours, fonts, and layouts more freely than in Typeset.
Team collaboration
Multiple people can work on the same design and leave comments in real-time.
Social media formats
Canva excels at creating content for different social platforms with pre-sized templates.
Animation features
Simple animations and transitions that Typeset can't provide.
When Manual Design is Best
Consider manual design methods when:
You need complete creative control
Your vision requires custom elements that no digital tool can provide.
Working with physical materials
Print projects that need special finishes, textures, or materials.
Creating unique brand elements
Custom logos, illustrations, or graphics that must be completely original.
Artistic projects
When the handmade quality is part of the design's appeal.
Budget constraints
Sometimes pencil and paper cost less than software subscriptions.
Practice
Think about your last three design projects. For each one, ask yourself:
- Did you hit any limitations in your chosen tool?
- Would a different approach have saved time or improved the result?
- What specific features did you wish you had access to?
Write down your answers. This helps you spot patterns in your design needs.
FAQs
Can I move designs from Typeset to Canva?
Not directly, but you can export your Typeset design and recreate it in Canva with additional enhancements.
How do I know if manual design is worth the extra time?
If the project budget allows for it and the handmade quality adds significant value to the final result.
Should I learn multiple design tools?
Yes, having options makes you more efficient. Each tool has strengths for different project types.
Is Canva always better than Typeset?
No, Typeset is often quicker for simple text-based designs. Canva works better for complex visual projects.
Jargon Buster
Typeset – A digital tool for arranging text and basic graphics into readable, attractive layouts
Canva – A web-based design platform with extensive templates and graphics libraries
Manual design – Creating designs by hand or with traditional tools rather than digital software
Layout flexibility – How easily you can arrange and rearrange design elements
Wrap-up
Now you know how to spot when Typeset isn't the right choice and which alternatives work better for different situations. The key is matching the tool to your project's specific needs rather than forcing one tool to do everything.
Start building familiarity with different design approaches. This gives you more options when you hit limitations and helps you choose the most efficient method for each project.
Ready to explore more design tools and techniques? Check out our other courses at https://www.pixelhaze.academy/membership