Line spacing in graphic design isn’t flashy—but it might be one of the most important details for content clarity. When spacing is too tight, even great messaging can feel cluttered or unreadable. And if your content looks hard to read, most people simply won’t.
Why Line Spacing Deserves More Attention
Designers and copywriters spend hours crafting strong headlines and compelling calls to action. But if your layout makes those elements hard to follow, the effort goes to waste.
Line spacing—also called leading—is the vertical space between lines of text. It directly affects how readable your content is. When it’s too tight, text blocks blur together. When it’s too loose, your layout feels disjointed.
According to Smashing Magazine, optimal line spacing increases readability, reduces cognitive load, and improves user experience—especially on mobile.
That’s why line spacing in graphic design plays such a critical role—it creates a better experience for your reader before they even process your words.
3 Things We Always Check
Headlines Need Space
Headlines should stand apart from body text. If your paragraph hugs the headline too closely, it feels like part of the same sentence. Add a little top or bottom margin to give it air.
Margins Matter
When text is pressed too close to the edge of a design or container, it creates visual tension. Even small padding or margin adjustments can make your layout feel instantly more relaxed and readable.
Hierarchy Is Your Friend
A clear structure helps guide the eye:
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Big idea up top (headline)
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Supporting context below
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CTA at the bottom
Hierarchy isn’t about “fancy design”—it’s about helping your message land.
Final Thought
Design isn’t just about looking good—it’s about communicating clearly. And line spacing in graphic design is a huge part of that. By giving your content room to breathe, you make your message easier to absorb—and more likely to stick. By giving your content room to breathe, line spacing in graphic design makes your message easier to absorb—and more likely to stick.
Ready to Upgrade Your Brand’s Readability?
If your website, marketing assets, or pitch decks feel crowded or off, reach out to Wizardly. We design for clarity, not clutter—so your message actually lands.
Let’s make your content easier to read—and impossible to ignore.
