Objective

To learn to use Adobe Illustrator tools by example. To review the design principles of unity and balance and emphasis by creating a wordmark similar to the example below.

Discussion

There are many ways to create unity. Proximity is the easiest and most often used way to create unity. Repetition is another. But if the repetition is too predictable, the design becomes boring. Repetition with a little variety is good. Use too much variety and you've lost unity. Finding that place where there is neither too little or too much variety is the interesting part of graphic design.

Study the design above and consider the following:

• What if more than one typeface was used?
• What if the type sizes had more contrast?
• What if there was more space between the elements?
• What if the confetti was different sizes?
• What if the confetti was different shapes?
• How is this design balanced?

Procedure

1. launch Illustrator, save as "celebrate.ai"
2. practice illustrator navigation shortcuts (space=hand, space+cmd=zoom in, space+cmd+opt= zoom out; cmd zero=fit in window)
3. using type tool, type "Celebrate!"; choose a font (cmd-T)
4. scale type large
5. make a copy (move with option)
6. type > create outlines
7. view outlines (cmd+Y)
8. make another copy (move with option)
9. slant copy with the shear tool
10. make type different sizes
11. add confetti
12. save, print

grading

1. add your name to the bottom of the file
2. file > save for web: preset=GIF 32 no dither, image size=800px wide
3. publish GIF as a link from your projects page
4. submit a b&w laser proof with your name on it for grading
5. file graded proof in your 3-ring binder for individual review