BY CHUCK GREEN Often, the first solution that comes to mind when designing a newsletter (figure 1) or brochure is to align images in a random pattern (based on a grid). One interesting alternative is to group images together (in this case horizontally) (figure 2) and to allow that emphasis to carry the layout (figure 3).
Continue reading "Horizontal emphasis" »
BY CHUCK GREEN A smart business card is a “tool“—a device that aids in accomplishing a task. It gives your contact a reason to keep your card within reach—it adds function to form. Yet, in an effort to save a few pennies in printing, millions of business cards are printed with a blank back—surrendering half the real estate on what is often our most widely circulated print piece. What should you include?
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Ideabook.com is a resource for the designer, copywriter, illustrator, photographer, design student, and anyone else interested in the disciplines of design and marketing. Here are some of many kind words received about ideabook.com, jumpola.com, pageplane.com, and Chuck's books...
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BY CHUCK GREEN Is the primary purpose of document design aesthetic? To my way of thinking—no. The first and, by far, the most important role of design is to map out the message.
Continue reading "Type palettes" »
BY CHUCK GREEN Need to make a big impression on a small budget? Send your prospect an object wrapped in a message. The trick is to find an item that helps you make your point.
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BY CHUCK GREEN Think outside the box. Does a newsletter have to be 8.5 inches wide and 11 inches high? Does it have to have a nameplate at the top of the cover with an article below it? Does it have to present 2.5 articles per page?
Continue reading "Tall news" »
BY CHUCK GREEN A woman stands up in a crowded city council meeting and reads the research. “We recently asked a random sampling of 250 citizens how often they use the new toll road. Five percent say they use it four or more times a week, eight percent say they use it one to three times a week, 12 percent say...” and continues on.
Continue reading "Every picture tells a story" »