Boneyard Tools

Modular Type Scale Generator

Pick a base size and a ratio, then generate a clean modular type scale. Each step multiplies by the ratio, giving harmonious heading and body sizes in px and rem.

How to generate a type scale

  1. Set your base font size, usually 16px.
  2. Choose a ratio such as the major third or perfect fourth.
  3. Pick how many steps to generate above and below the base.
  4. Copy the px and rem values straight into your stylesheet.

Examples

Major third from 16px

base 16px, ratio 1.25, 3 up, 1 down
12.8, 16, 20, 25, 31.25 px

Frequently asked questions

What is a modular type scale?

A modular scale sizes type by repeatedly multiplying a base size by a fixed ratio. The shared ratio makes headings and body text feel visually consistent.

Which ratio should I use?

Smaller ratios like the minor third (1.2) suit dense interfaces, while larger ones like the perfect fourth (1.333) or golden ratio (1.618) give dramatic, editorial headings.

How is rem calculated?

Rem is the pixel value divided by 16, the browser default root font size. Using rem keeps your scale responsive to user font-size preferences.

What does step 0 mean?

Step 0 is your base size. Positive steps go up for headings, negative steps go down for small print and captions.

Is anything uploaded?

No. The scale is computed entirely in your browser and nothing is sent anywhere.

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