Asymmetry.What a boring word

©2007 CK MEDIA
by Cathy Zielske
AB OU T D E SI GN | Learn
Asymmetry. What a boring word for such an exciting
design principle. I prefer the word “skewompus,” which to me means “off-center,”
“irregular,” maybe even a bit “rebellious.” What it doesn’t mean is “unbalanced.” Yes,
it’s true that asymmetrical design is the opposite of symmetrical (or mirror-image)
design. But both can be balanced. Whether your style is clean and simple, a little bit
messy, or somewhere in between, here are some things to keep in mind when going
for that “skewompus” look.
GUIDING PRINCIPLE: ASYMMETRY. Asymmetrical balance means you create balance across
a given space using items that do not mirror one another. The two photos on the left of my layout
occupy a different amount of space than the items on the right. The two halves of my layout are not
filled evenly—which adds energy and flow to the design. Asymmetry doesn’t mean elements need to
be tilted or askew in any way; although they absolutely can be, if that’s your style. Personally, I can’t
tilt anything on a layout without needing therapy, but that’s just me.
ASYMMETRY PLUS…
Common margins—
Three sides of this page
have equal margins that
help to frame the
nonsymmetrical visual
elements. Always pay
attention to the space
at the edge of your layout.
It’s critical for creating a
sense of purpose.
Type contrast—Create
visual interest using
rub-ons of vastly different
sizes. Two small words
and one big honkin’ word
(using Mustard Moon’s
Big Honkin’ rub-ons) is
a recipe for good type.
Handwriting—I love
all the new ruled stamps,
like the one I used from
Fontwerks. They make
writing in straight lines
easier than ever!
m a t e r i a l s patterned papers, line stamp, date stamp (Fontwerks) • letter rub-ons (Mustard Moon, American Crafts)
• gem stickers (Prima) • stamping ink • 12 x 12 page
S I M P L E S C R A P B O O K S M AG . C O M
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©2007 CK MEDIA
Learn |
AB OUT D E SIG N
IF YOU WERE TO SLICE THIS LAYOUT IN HALF, you’d find more elements on the right
side of the spread than on the left. This is an asymmetrical design. I sometimes find it more
challenging to create asymmetrical pages, because there are simply too many options. Other
times, an asymmetrical page inspires me to push my creative boundaries. But remember,
asymmetrical balance should still feel sensible. It isn’t about slapping random elements on a
layout. If you succeed, every piece will hold a position of purpose. Look at your layout and ask,
“Does my layout make sense visually?” And adjust from there.
ASYMMETRY PLUS…
Common margins—The margins
below the main elements and above
the 5 x 7 black-and-white photo are
the same, creating a uniform cushion
of space.
Repetition—The repeating paper
flowers and brads create a sense
of connection across the spread.
Mix and match—Sometimes it’s fun
to mix and match black-and-white
and color photos. There’s certainly
no rule that says you can’t!
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J U LY / AU GU ST 2007
m a t e r i a l s patterned papers (BasicGrey) • letter stamps (Fontwerks) • letter stickers (Heidi Swapp)
• paper flowers (Prima) • index tab (7gypsies) • brads (American Crafts) • date stamp by Katie Pertiet
(designerdigitals.com) • Interstate font • 8 1⁄2 x 11 spread
THE
language
OF DESIGN
What do designers mean when they talk about “flow”? “Flow” refers to how
the eye follows and moves through the elements of a layout. This can also be called
“rhythm” or “movement.” There are several ways to achieve good flow. One of them is
called “visual hierarchy.” Visual hierarchy is achieved by using descending sizes and
weights to signify where to look and in what order. On the layout above, the 5 x 7
black-and-white photo serves as the first landing point.Your eye begins there because it
is the largest element on the spread. Then your eye naturally moves to the right to read
the title, see the photos below, and then read the journaling. It’s all about taking charge
of your design and showing the viewer where to look first. Did you realize design gives
you that kind of power? It does!