Design and Print

A balanced design is achieved through careful layout of the design elements. There are several different types of balance: symmetrical, radial, and crystallographic or all over balance. Unity, proximity, and repetition work along with these different balance choices to create a well-balanced design. Sometimes a design is purposefully off-balance. This technique is used to create a sense of motion and action and cause uneasiness in viewers. Below are some of the characteristics of these types to help you determine if your designs for your brochure, postcard, poster printing project is balanced.

Symmetrical balance is centered on an axis. To avoid a boring symmetrical poster printing or brochure printing design, use a combination of elements to achieve symmetry. A symmetrically balanced design may include these elements:

• Perfectly centered, vertical, or horizontal
• Mirror image
• Equal segments (halves, thirds, etc)
• Block of text with an image of equal size
• Equal visual weight
• Central axis divides layout
• Convey soothing emotions

Radial balance originates with a central focus point and radiates out from it, perfect for a unique poster printing design. A radially balanced design may include these elements:

• Larger central element
• Smaller radial elements
• Off-center
• Odd number of elements
• Evenly distribute different size elements
• Intentionally avoid balance
• Express movement
• Convey strong emotions

Crystallographic designs have an all over balance with a grid-like composition. A crystallographically balanced design may include these elements:

• Equal emphasis over the whole page
• Repetition over whole page
• Pattern
• Quilt-like
• Uniform emphasis
• No distinct focal point

Experimenting with each type of balance will keep your designs fresh, whether they be postcards, brochures, or poster printing layouts. You may even find a design that works great as a brand image for your company. So, put your creative cap on and have fun trying out some new layouts that will impress your clients!