{"id":7499,"date":"2024-12-02T10:00:34","date_gmt":"2024-12-02T15:00:34","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/smartpress.com\/blog\/?p=7499"},"modified":"2025-07-14T11:58:58","modified_gmt":"2025-07-14T16:58:58","slug":"principles-of-design","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/smartpress.com\/blog\/features\/principles-of-design","title":{"rendered":"7 Principles of Design &#038; How to Use Them for Print"},"content":{"rendered":"<!--the_content--><!--block-empty--> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-11 col-md-8\"> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-6\"> <p>No matter what print marketing assets you create for your business, it\u2019s crucial they\u2019re devised with the principles of design in mind. Understanding the seven rules for design ensures your print pieces and marketing assets look professional and are effective for your target audience. So let\u2019s clarify what the principles of design are and how employing them can impact your business for the better.<\/p> <p>&nbsp;<\/p> <p><a href=\"https:\/\/smartpress.com\/shop\/all\">Explore all of Smartpress\u2019 print marketing products<\/a>.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <!--block--><div class=\"row center-xs\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-8\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-12\">\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><!--\/block--> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-11 col-md-8\"> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-8\"> <\/span><\/p> <h2>Key Takeaways<\/h2> <ul> <li><span data-sheets-root=\"1\"><a href=\"#what-are-the-principles-of-design\">There are seven principles of design:<\/a> emphasis, balance, contrast, movement, rhythm, alignment and unity.<\/span><\/li> <li><span data-sheets-root=\"1\"><a href=\"#why-is-it-important-to-understand-the-principles-of-design\">There are foundational guidelines for creating effective and professional print marketing assets<\/a> and can help organize your content and direct attention.<\/span><\/li> <li><span data-sheets-root=\"1\">Smartpress&#8217; <a href=\"#print-your-designs-with-smartpress\">custom printing options and specialty features<\/a> can help enhance your graphic designs so they boost communication and increase your ROI.<\/span><\/li> <\/ul> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <!--block--><div class=\"row center-xs\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-8\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-12\">\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><!--\/block--> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-11 col-md-8\"> <div class=\"row\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-8\"> <h2 id=\"what-are-the-principles-of-design\">What are the Principles of Design?<\/h2> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <!--block--><div class=\"row center-xs\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-8\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-12\">\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><!--\/block--> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-11 col-md-8\"> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-8\"> <p>While some may argue graphic design should be totally free of constraints and full of creativity, without at least a few guidelines, the results tend to be ineffective, and frankly, messy &#8211; neither of which you want for your marketing assets.<\/p> <p>&nbsp;<\/p> <p>Thus, there are principles of design. Seven concepts that serve as a foundation for your visual compositions. They lay the groundwork that you build upon. They provide stability that\u2019s compatible with your creativity but doesn\u2019t constrain it. These design rules are essential for presenting your products, services, event details, artwork and branding in a way that\u2019s strong yet still totally tailored to you. They are:<\/p> <ul> <li>Emphasis<\/li> <li>Balance<\/li> <li>Contrast<\/li> <li>Movement<\/li> <li>Rhythm<\/li> <li>Alignment<\/li> <li>Unity<\/li> <\/ul> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div><!--block-empty--> <!--graybar--><div class=\"ltGrayBkgd-md\"><\/div><!--\/graybar--> <!--block--><div class=\"row center-xs\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-8\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-12\">\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><!--\/block--> <!--block: 50-50 --><div class=\"row center-xs\" ><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-8\"><div class=\"row\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6\"><!--[col]--><\/span><\/p> <p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/blogprodproxy.wpengine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/SPDC_7_POD_EMPHASIS.gif\" alt=\"A gif with a blue background and a white geometric graphic.\"   \/><\/p> <!--[\/col]--><\/div> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6\"><!--[col]--> <p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/SPDC_7_POD_EMPHASIS.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=900&s=c04cb1150fd15160d6cc3849c0b796e8\" alt=\"A poster unfolded and printed with a purple background and A Reader Lives a Thousand Lives Before They Die in white.\"   data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p> <!--[\/col]--><\/div> <\/div><\/div><\/div> <!--\/block--> <!--block--><div class=\"row center-xs\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-8\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-12\">\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><!--\/block--> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-11 col-md-8\"> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-8\"> <h3>1. Emphasis<\/h3> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <!--block--><div class=\"row center-xs\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-8\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-12\">\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><!--\/block--> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-11 col-md-8\"> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-8\"> <p>First on our list of design principles is emphasis. What\u2019s the thing your audience needs to know first? What\u2019s the crucial piece of information? What\u2019s the main message you want to convey? Whatever it is (a product spec, price, date, promo), that\u2019s what you want to use to draw your audience\u2019s attention.<\/p> <p>&nbsp;<\/p> <p>This step is super important because if you\u2019re not solid on the intent of your asset, your design won\u2019t make a strong impact. So what can you do? Create an outline to organize all of your content and zoom in on the most important part. Then turn that part into a focal point with color, font size or even texture to make that area stand out.<\/p> <p>&nbsp;<\/p> <p><a href=\"https:\/\/smartpress.com\/blog\/on-press\/kraft-paper-how-to-design-with-unique-color-texture\">Can you pinpoint where emphasis is on these Kraft designs<\/a>?<\/p> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <!--block--><div class=\"row center-xs\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-8\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-12\">\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><!--\/block--> <!--block: 50-50 --><div class=\"row center-xs\" ><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-8\"><div class=\"row\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6\"><!--[col]--><\/span><\/p> <p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/blogprodproxy.wpengine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/SPDC_7_POD_BALANCE.gif\" alt=\"A gif with a white background and a blue geometric graphic.\"   \/><\/p> <!--[\/col]--><\/div> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6\"><!--[col]--> <p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/SPDC_7_POD_BALANCE.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=900&s=6282a91e3f0d441ab28e09a479509c30\" alt=\"Custom booklets lined up in three rows and printed with The Portfolio of Al Fabete in white.\"   data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p> <!--[\/col]--><\/div> <\/div><\/div><\/div> <!--\/block--> <!--block--><div class=\"row center-xs\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-8\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-12\">\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><!--\/block--> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-11 col-md-8\"> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-8\"> <h3>2. Balance<\/h3> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <!--block--><div class=\"row center-xs\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-8\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-12\">\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><!--\/block--> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-11 col-md-8\"> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-8\"> <p>Balance is one of the principles and elements of design you can\u2019t do without. When your designs have balance, the whole composition is visually pleasing and it feels stable. Think about it: If you have all of your design elements on one side or in one corner of a flyer, it feels wrong and not secure. Which can lead customers to think your business is just as shaky.<\/p> <p>&nbsp;<\/p> <p>Types of balance strategies include symmetrical, asymmetrical, the golden ratio and radial. Symmetrical designs feature elements weighted equally on both sides of the center, while asymmetrical designs feature elements with contrasting weights (like a lot of small elements opposite one big one).<\/p> <p>&nbsp;<\/p> <p>You can use the golden ratio, which is approximately 1.618, to create a balanced layout, find appropriate proportions, even find line heights. Or work with radial balance, with your design elements arranged around a central point. Experiment with these balance strategies to find the one that presents your message with the most impact.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <!--block--><div class=\"row center-xs\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-8\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-12\">\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><!--\/block--> <!--block: 50-50 --><div class=\"row center-xs\" ><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-8\"><div class=\"row\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6\"><!--[col]--><\/span><\/p> <p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/blogprodproxy.wpengine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/SPDC_7_POD_CONTRAST.gif\" alt=\"A gif with a white and blue background and a square graphic.\"   \/><\/p> <!--[\/col]--><\/div> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6\"><!--[col]--> <p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/SPDC_7_POD_CONTRAST.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=900&s=f8acaf59b8c0ed8f53f4b4bf59bc1298\" alt=\"Two custom business cards overlapping each other and printed with Threadwell in orange.\"   data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p> <!--[\/col]--><\/div> <\/div><\/div><\/div> <!--\/block--> <!--block--><div class=\"row center-xs\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-8\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-12\">\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><!--\/block--> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-11 col-md-8\"> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-8\"> <h3>3. Contrast<\/h3> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <!--block--><div class=\"row center-xs\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-8\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-12\">\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><!--\/block--> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-11 col-md-8\"> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-8\"> <p>In the third spot on our list of the 7 principles of design is contrast. How different are your design elements? If they\u2019re strikingly different and in opposition to each other, that\u2019s contrast. But contrast doesn\u2019t simply mean your elements are different &#8211; the difference has to be visually interesting and can help organize your content.<\/p> <p>&nbsp;<\/p> <p>Take fonts for example. Sticking to only two different fonts can clarify what information is more important (like a bold headline vs. plain body text). You can use contrasting color for your background and foreground elements, contrasting sizes or shapes of elements, even smooth or textured elements. However you use contrast, it\u2019s sure to make your overall design pop.<\/p> <p>&nbsp;<\/p> <p><a href=\"https:\/\/smartpress.com\/blog\/features\/opposites-attract-which-print-idea-is-perfect-for-you\">Get inspired with our list of contrasting print ideas<\/a>.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <!--block--><div class=\"row center-xs\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-8\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-12\">\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><!--\/block--> <!--block: 50-50 --><div class=\"row center-xs\" ><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-8\"><div class=\"row\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6\"><!--[col]--><\/span><\/p> <p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/blogprodproxy.wpengine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/SPDC_7_POD_MOVEMENT.gif\" alt=\"A gif with a white background and a dark navy blue geometric graphic.\"   \/><\/p> <!--[\/col]--><\/div> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6\"><!--[col]--> <p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/SPDC_7_POD_MOVEMENT.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=900&s=d3a4321e6c098ba979af40f1dc21bc1b\" alt=\"A custom sign printed with Clover Home Goods and Dining Room Furniture in tan and black.\"   data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p> <!--[\/col]--><\/div> <\/div><\/div><\/div> <!--\/block--> <!--block--><div class=\"row center-xs\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-8\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-12\">\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><!--\/block--> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-11 col-md-8\"> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-8\"> <h3>4. Movement<\/h3> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <!--block--><div class=\"row center-xs\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-8\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-12\">\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><!--\/block--> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-11 col-md-8\"> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-8\"> <p>Movement is one of those principles of design examples that just makes sense. Movement refers to how your audience is guided through your content. Is your content arranged in a way that moves their eye logically from one piece of information to the next? Does your design guide their eye across the page or toward key elements?<\/p> <p>&nbsp;<\/p> <p>Outlining the content on your asset (like a <a href=\"https:\/\/smartpress.com\/shop\/poster-printing\">poster<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/smartpress.com\/shop\/brochure-printing\">brochure<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/smartpress.com\/shop\/signs-banners-displays\">sign<\/a>) can really help with this. As you lay out your design, be sure to place elements along the path you want your reader to take. Directional lines and repeated shapes can also help convey the story you\u2019re trying to tell.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <!--block--><div class=\"row center-xs\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-8\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-12\">\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><!--\/block--> <!--block: 50-50 --><div class=\"row center-xs\" ><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-8\"><div class=\"row\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6\"><!--[col]--><\/span><\/p> <p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/blogprodproxy.wpengine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/SPDC_7_POD_RHYTHM.gif\" alt=\"A gif with a white background and a dark navy blue wave graphic.\"   \/><\/p> <!--[\/col]--><\/div> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6\"><!--[col]--> <p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/SPDC_7_POD_RHYTHM.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=900&s=7ed448356a0ace64723ae00bd2851f06\" alt=\"A custom pocket folder printed with an orange, green, white and black design and Hawker printed down the left side.\"   data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p> <!--[\/col]--><\/div> <\/div><\/div><\/div> <!--\/block--> <!--block--><div class=\"row center-xs\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-8\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-12\">\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><!--\/block--> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-11 col-md-8\"> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-8\"> <h3>5. Rhythm<\/h3> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <!--block--><div class=\"row center-xs\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-8\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-12\">\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><!--\/block--> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-11 col-md-8\"> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-8\"> <p>One of our favorite examples of principles of design is rhythm. Does your design have a visual \u201cbeat\u201d to it? If not, you can create a pattern with strategies like repetition, variation and pacing.<\/p> <p>&nbsp;<\/p> <p>Repeating elements creates cohesion throughout your composition, while varying elements ensures your readers stay engaged. And as for pacing, it\u2019s a good idea to use consistent spacing to establish a creative cadence or flow and enhance your audience\u2019s experience.<\/p> <p>&nbsp;<\/p> <p><a href=\"https:\/\/smartpress.com\/blog\/features\/extraordinary-impact-14-creative-print-designs-from-2022-part-1\">Rhythm is a great way to create impactful print &#8211; here are 14 other ways<\/a>.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <!--block--><div class=\"row center-xs\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-8\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-12\">\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><!--\/block--> <!--block: 50-50 --><div class=\"row center-xs\" ><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-8\"><div class=\"row\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6\"><!--[col]--><\/span><\/p> <p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/blogprodproxy.wpengine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/SPDC_7_POD_ALIGNMENT.gif\" alt=\"A gif with a blue background and a white square and rectangular graphic.\"   \/><\/p> <!--[\/col]--><\/div> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6\"><!--[col]--> <p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/SPDC_7_POD_ALIGNMENT.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=900&s=eb3e6ca9efc55894d71a7f98dd60e1e7\" alt=\"A custom sign printed with a yellow and white design and History of Architecture in black.\"   data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p> <!--[\/col]--><\/div> <\/div><\/div><\/div> <!--\/block--> <!--block--><div class=\"row center-xs\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-8\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-12\">\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><!--\/block--> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-11 col-md-8\"> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-8\"> <h3>6. Alignment<\/h3> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <!--block--><div class=\"row center-xs\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-8\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-12\">\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><!--\/block--> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-11 col-md-8\"> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-8\"> <p>Next in line of the 7 design principles is alignment. This principle refers to how your elements are arranged in relation to each other. With the right alignment, your marketing asset has a sense of order and cohesion that makes sense for your target audience.<\/p> <p>&nbsp;<\/p> <p>Depending on your content, you can align your elements to the left, right or center of your asset. You can even break your alignment to create a focal point or message you really want to hit home.<\/p> <p>&nbsp;<\/p> <p><span data-sheets-root=\"1\">&#8220;These three common types of alignment, flush left, flush right and centered, and each carries their own visual impact,&#8221; said Smartpress Senior Graphic Designer Nate Johannes. &#8220;Left-aligned elements tend to feel orderly and familiar, especially in Western cultures where we read left to right. Right-aligned elements can feel unexpected and a bit more avant-garde, often adding a subtle edginess. Center alignment is widely used for its balance but can sometimes come across as static or less dynamic.&#8221;<br \/> <\/span><\/p> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <!--block--><div class=\"row center-xs\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-8\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-12\">\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><!--\/block--> <!--block: 50-50 --><div class=\"row center-xs\" ><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-8\"><div class=\"row\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6\"><!--[col]--><\/span><\/p> <p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/blogprodproxy.wpengine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/SPDC_7_POD_UNITY.gif\" alt=\"A gif with a blue background and a white geometric graphic of lines, squares and circles.\"   \/><\/p> <!--[\/col]--><\/div> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6\"><!--[col]--> <p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/SPDC_7_POD_UNITY.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=900&s=d84129f674436de20a03f083100cd94b\" alt=\"A custom sign printed with Good Roots in purple and large kale leaves.\"   data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p> <!--[\/col]--><\/div> <\/div><\/div><\/div> <!--\/block--> <!--block--><div class=\"row center-xs\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-8\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-12\">\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><!--\/block--> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-11 col-md-8\"> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-8\"> <h3>7. Unity<\/h3> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <!--block--><div class=\"row center-xs\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-8\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-12\">\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><!--\/block--> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-11 col-md-8\"> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-8\"> <p>We touched on cohesion with the rhythm principle, but it really comes into play with unity. This principle refers to designs that create a sense of harmony and wholeness by ensuring all elements contribute to the overall vision. In short, everything\u2019s working together toward one common goal, whether that\u2019s a social engagement, a sale or an RSVP.<\/p> <p>&nbsp;<\/p> <p>To create unity, consider things like proximity (are like elements near each other?), repetition (do your elements create a recognizable pattern?) and alignment (are your elements in a logical order?).<\/p> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div><!--block-empty--> <!--graybar--><div class=\"ltGrayBkgd-md\"><\/div><!--\/graybar--> <!--block--><div class=\"row center-xs\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-8\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-12\">\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><!--\/block--> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-11 col-md-8\"> <div class=\"row\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-8\"> <h2 id=\"why-is-it-important-to-understand-the-principles-of-design\">Why is It Important to Understand the Principles of Design?<\/h2> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <!--block--><div class=\"row center-xs\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-8\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-12\">\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><!--\/block--> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-11 col-md-8\"> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-8\"> <p>With any creative work, it\u2019s crucial to understand the principles of design to effectively communicate with your audience. And whether you\u2019re a graphic designer or marketer, these principles can help you create print marketing assets and branding materials that are visually pleasing and positively impact your ROI.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <!--block--><div class=\"row center-xs\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-8\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-12\">\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><!--\/block--> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-11 col-md-8\"> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-8\"> <p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/smartpressblog.imgix.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/smartpress-building-chanhassen-3.jpg?auto=format%2Ccompress&ixlib=php-3.3.0&w=900&s=acf4d0de9360fce49d4fc2d83fb82ecd\" alt=\"A blue outdoor business sign printed with Smartpress in white next to an office building.\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <!--block--><div class=\"row center-xs\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-8\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-12\">\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><!--\/block--> <div class=\"row center-xs\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-11 col-md-10\"> <div class=\"row\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-8\"> <h2 id=\"print-your-designs-with-smartpress\">Print Your Designs with Smartpress<\/h2> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <!--block--><div class=\"row center-xs\"><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-8\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-12\">\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><!--\/block--> <!--block: 50-50 --><div class=\"row center-xs\" ><div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-10 col-md-8\"><div class=\"row\"> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6\"><!--[col]--><\/span><\/p> <p>While it\u2019s important to understand the seven principles of design, it\u2019s also important to remember that rules are meant to be broken. You can follow each one of these basic design principles and still come up with a design or concept that just doesn\u2019t work. In those instances, don\u2019t be afraid to throw the rules out the window and go with your gut.<\/p> <!--[\/col]--><\/div> <div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6\"><!--[col]--> <p>And when you\u2019re ready to print your assets, Smartpress is ready to help with everything from <a href=\"https:\/\/smartpress.com\/support\/product-resources\/graphic-design-tips-for-beginners\">graphic design tips for beginners<\/a> to <a href=\"https:\/\/smartpress.com\/support\/ordering-shipping\">placing your order<\/a>. Whether you need <a href=\"https:\/\/smartpress.com\/shop\/business-card-printing\">business cards<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/smartpress.com\/offering\/perfect-bound-book\">lookbooks<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/smartpress.com\/shop\/signs-banners-displays#11291\">window graphics<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/smartpress.com\/shop\/direct-mail-printing\">direct mail<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/smartpress.com\/shop\/all\">we\u2019ve got the products<\/a> and the expert personnel to create assets that are designed well and give your brand a boost.<\/p> <!--[\/col]--><\/div> <\/div><\/div><\/div> <!--\/block--><!--block-empty--><!--\/the_content-->","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"No matter what print marketing assets you create for your business, it\u2019s crucial they\u2019re devised with the principles of design in mind. Understanding the seven rules for design ensures your print pieces and marketing assets look professional and are effective for your target audience. So let\u2019s clarify what the principles of design are and how employing them can impact your business for the better.","protected":false},"author":8,"featured_media":7515,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"sfsi_plus_gutenberg_text_before_share":"","sfsi_plus_gutenberg_show_text_before_share":"","sfsi_plus_gutenberg_icon_type":"","sfsi_plus_gutenberg_icon_alignemt":"","sfsi_plus_gutenburg_max_per_row":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[8],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-7499","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-features"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.4 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>7 Principles of Design &amp; How to Use Them for Print - Smartpress Blog<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"The 7 principles of design help guide artists to creating attractive, unique designs. 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