Composition in Hand Lettering
Composition is the art of arranging your lettering elements to create a balanced and harmonious piece.
Use hierarchy to establish the most important words in your piece. This can be done through:
Size Variation: Make the key words larger, drawing the eye first.
Weight & Color: Use a bolder weight or a contrasting color for emphasis.
Placement: Place the most important words in a central or prominent location.
Balancing Act: To create a balanced piece you must consider:
Symmetrical Balance: Mirror your lettering elements on either side of a central axis (think wedding invitations).
Asymmetrical Balance: Distribute elements with different weights and sizes to create a dynamic balance (think birthday posters).
Size Matters: Playing with Proportions
Varying the size of your letters adds visual interest and helps establish hierarchy. Consider using:
Contrasting Sizes: Make key words significantly larger than supporting ones.
Gradual Variations: Create a natural rhythm by subtly increasing or decreasing letter sizes within a word.
The Power of Less: Utilizing Negative Space
Don't underestimate the power of empty space! Negative space (the area between your letters) is crucial for a visually pleasing composition. Utilize it effectively by:
Letting Letters Breathe: Avoid overcrowding your piece – give your letters room to shine.
Creating Shapes: Use negative space to define shapes that complement your lettering (think hearts or stars).
Guiding the Eye: Utilize negative space to guide the viewer's eye through your composition.
Embrace the Magic:
Composition isn't about rigid rules; it's about finding a balance that works for you. Experiment, have fun, and trust your creative intuition. Soon enough, you'll be composing hand lettering pieces that are not only beautiful but also captivatingly arranged! ♥
For inspiration go to my Pinterest board about Lettering Composition:
https://www.pinterest.com/maiathen/lettering-composition/
