Graphic Tips & Tricks

8 Rules of Graphic Design

Contrast.

If your design feels boring or unremarkable, you're likely missing contrast. 

Contrast can be as easy as using light and dark colors and big and small sizes. Or, it can be more complicated by using different shapes, textures and values. 

Using a light background with dark text (or vice versa) is a distinctive way to produce high contrast and enhance comprehensibility. 

Emphasis. 

Every element of a design tells a story, and every story needs a main character.

To emphasize elements in graphic design, use color and contrast, size and scale, typography, and meaningful placement. This will direct the viewer's eye and create visual sequence, allowing the primary information to stands out. 

Color.

Using bright colors against neutral or dull tones can draw attention to specific areas of your design.

Colors opposite each other on the color wheel (like blue and orange) create a powerful visual impact.

Dedicate 60% of the palette to one color (usually, it's a neutral color), another (complementary) color makes up 30% of the palette, and a third color (accent) is used for the remaining 10% of the design.

Balance.

Balance is the equal distribution of visual heaviness within a design, creating a proportionate design which can be attained through different techniques, including symmetry, asymmetry, and radial balance. Consider colors, sizes, shapes, and positioning to create attractive layouts. 

Repetition.

Repetition in graphic design relates to using similar design elements repeatedly to create unity and visual interest which needs a balance of consistency and differences to avoid monotony and keep your viewer engaged. Designers can use repetition with size, color, orientation, and other elements to create a scale and cadence. 

White space.

White space in graphic design, also known as negative space, is the empty area around the elements of your design. Effective use of white space can make a design look more sophisticated and modern, and it can also guide the viewer's eye to key elements.

Movement.

Use techniques like diagonal lines, color contrast, and typography to guide the viewer's eye  to use movement in your design. Additionally, discover how shapes, patterns, and visual effects can create a feeling of energy. Meaningful use of white space, alignment, and cropping can also give the illusion of motion and focus your viewer's attention. 

Pattern.To create productive and visually attractive patterns in graphic design, focus on color harmony, balance, and a clear concept. Restrict the color palette, experiment with scale and rotation, and offset geometric and organic shapes. Make sure your pattern complements the overall design, without overwhelming other elements.