List the 8 Design Elements.
- Point
- Line
- Tone (or value)
- Shape
- Form
- Texture
- Colour
- Transparency, Translucency, Opacity
List the 7 Design Principles.
- Space
- Balance (Symmetry/Asymmetry)
- Movement/Rhythm (Pattern
- Contrast
- Emphasis (focal point)
- Unity
- Visual Weight
What is the difference between a design element and a design principle?
Design elements are the basic parts of the visual, tactile and aesthetic appearance. Design principles are used to combine and arrange the design elements.
Design Element: Line
- Can be used to create sensation of movement through being continuous or interrupted
- Straight lines and angles = structure and order
- Curved lines = grace and sensuality
- Vertical lines = taller, slimmer
- Horizontal lines = shorter, fatter
Design Element: Tone (or value)
The degree of lightness or darkness of aspects of a garment.
- can create the illusion of being 3D
- can be used to create contrast
Design Element: Texture
- Surface quality
- Real texture = how it feels to touch
- Implied/Simulated texture = illusion of texture created by imitating the texture pattern, usually printed
Design Element: Form
The three dimensional shape of a product (height, width, depth, space, volume).
Design Element: Shape
Can refer to either:
- overall shape or silhouette (eg: 1950s skirts = the bell silhouette)
- shapes that are used as components of the garment (eg: triangle = collar, semi circular = puffed sleeve)
- shapes can be organic or geometric
Design Element: Colour
- Primary, secondary and tertiary
- can affect the way we feel (eg: blue - peaceful)
- can be used symbolically
- warm colours advance towards us
- cool colours recede
Design Element: Point
A particular place or spot that the eye is drawn to.
-often isolated and not related to product’s lines or shape
Design Element: Transparency, Translucency, Opacity
Transparency = see through, allows light through Translucency = some light allowed, detail can't be seen Opacity = not see through, light cannot pass through
Design Principle: Space
Positive Space = space an object takes up
Negative Space = space that exists around objects, can be seen as a hole of light or air.
Design Principle: Balance (Symmetry/Asymmetry)
Symmetrical = formal balance, mirror image Asymmetrical = all elements are balanced using a variety in size, tone or colour
Design Principle: Movement/Rhythm (pattern)
- repetition creates predictable patterns and establishes a rhythm which in turn creates a sense of movement
- encourages the eye to move around the garment
Design Principle: Contrast
Refers to the use of opposing art elements used to create interest.
-can create a focal point or variety
Design Principle: Emphasis (focal point)
The main area of interest in a garment, created by arranging elements to draw attention to a specific area. Can be created through: -contrasting shapes, forms or colours -isolating forms from surrounding ones -directional lines to lead the eye -placement of forms centrally -pattern or detail to highlight areas -contrast of size to focus attention
Design Principle: Unity
When all the elements of a garment work together to create a strong sense of connection. Can be achieved through: -Repetition -Harmony (similarity) -Variety -Contrast
Design Principle: Visual Weight
The appearance of the object that changes how we read or perceive the object.
Relates to the transparency or opacity of the materials used.
