Lines, lines, lines. Lines are everywhere in design, they are used to divide space, direct the user’s eye, create flow, create emphasis and organize all design elements into form. Generally, we don’t think about lines that much, but we make use of them quite often to visually communicate our objective to the user. From our sponsor: From online stores to member areas, Squarespace is everything you need to sell anything. A line is a basic element that refers to the continuous movement of a point along a surface, such as by a pencil or brush. The edges of shapes and forms also create lines. It is the basic component of a shape drawn on paper. Lines and curves are the basic building blocks of two-dimensional shapes like a house’s plan. Every line has length, thickness, and direction. There are curved, horizontal, vertical, diagonal, zigzag, wavy, parallel, dashed, and dotted lines. Lines, lines, lines. Lines are everywhere in design, they are used to divide space, direct the user’s eye, create flow, create emphasis and organize all design elements into form. Generally, we don’t think about lines that much, but we make use of them quite often to visually communicate our objective to the user. The web is about communication, so using lines to communicate your message properly is important. Communication — Line TypesFirst of all, a line is simply a fluid connection between two or more points. It seems like there is an endless supply of differing types of lines, from thin lines to thick lines, short lines to long lines, wavy lines to straight lines. But just like everything in design — or in life — there are some basic lines that we need to understand.
Meaning and MoodLines are great for creating mood and meaning. Beyond the foundational line types above, other line types and styles can be used to create meaning and mood. Because there truly are an endless number of line types and combinations within, we’ll just take a look at the few main types. Vertical lines simulate height and can create a mood of grandeur or spirituality. Great examples of this is the vertical line usage in churches and cathedrals where ceilings are lifted on tall vertical pillars guiding the eyes upward. In web design vertical lines tend to represent or create length and indicate to the user that there is more content below the fold. Horizontal lines generally create relaxation or a calming mood, they tend to be quiet and subtle whereas vertical lines are more imposing and powerful. In web design horizontal lines are also known for their ability to organize content. When you look at gridded layouts you’ll notice that horizontal lines are the elements creating balance and organization — even though grids are generally laid vertically. The majority of curved lines create familiarity and comfort, they also suggest relaxation. Curved lines are very easy on the eyes and are interesting to follow. Curvy lines are associated with nature — they feel very organic. Diagonal lines are the greatest way to create movement and direction. Where horizontal lines suggest gravity and are stable, diagonal lines are more unstable. These lines don’t lay down or stand up in a restful position, they are in motion and you can actually create a sense of speed just by simply adjusting the pitch of the lines: the steeper, the faster. Thick lines are visually powerful on the canvas, they represent power and respect. The use of thick lines can build a feeling of power and boldness. However, the overuse of thick lines can be very overwhelming and way too demanding so you’ll need to be careful and balance them off with other visual elements or differing weights of line. Thin lines tend to feel fragile, but their subtle feeling makes them great for directing the eye without being annoying. They are also empathetic to the viewer and tend to create a feeling of comfort and tranquility. Combining thin and thick lines is a great way to create visual interest and hierarchy by balancing the visually demanding thick lines with the subtle, comforting thin lines. Examples of Lines in Web Designhttp://www.halfofus.com.au/http://www.shhim.co.uk/http://lawineagency.com/http://www.codeslingerschallenge.com/http://www.hellostudios.com.au/http://www.englishworkshop.eu/http://inmotionmassage.co.uk/Tagged with: best-practices communication inspiration lines What line shows calmness or peace?Horizontal lines are straight lines parallel to the horizon that move from left to right. They suggest width, distance, calmness, and stability.
What lines are used to show relaxation and comfort in a design?Horizontal lines generally create relaxation or a calming mood, they tend to be quiet and subtle whereas vertical lines are more imposing and powerful. In web design horizontal lines are also known for their ability to organize content.
Which type of line conveys the best sense of calm peace and restfulness?Curved lines suggest comfort and ease. Horizontal lines suggest distance and calm. Vertical lines suggest height and strength. Jagged lines suggest turmoil and anxiety.
Do horizontal lines seem calm?Horizontal lines are used to create a strong sense of tranquillity and calm. Their simple, 'A to B' structure represents the idea of trust and is commonly used to promote community ideals. Horizontal lines make us think of: Calm.
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