Grid Structure

Gutter – where the two pages are sewn together. Pica – each column is separated by one pica, or 1/6 inch. Notes: Design begins by establishing column grids, an invisible vertical framework that will hold the content. The framework helps designers with alignment and proximity. Each column is separated by a pica, or 1/6th of an inch. Graphic designers measure in picas. All content elements fall within the column grid without stopping in the middle. While some designs feature just eight columns across the spread, more columns provide greater variety in photo and content module sizes. For this design, an 18-column grid is used. The columns are spaced 1 pica apart, often called standard spacing. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 1 5 16 17 18 19 2 0 21 22 23 24 Layout Grid

When designing, always place the dominant photo first When designing, always place the dominant photo first. Notice that all edges touch the edge of a grid box.

An eyeline unifies the spread. It, too, touches the edges of the grid.

Notes: Designers should always begin by working from the middle of the layout, placing elements next to one another moving outward. Never place an element at the outside of the page first, unless it is an element that is on every single page, like a sidebar or photo strip. For flexibility, the columns may be combined for displaying the stories and captions. In this case, five columns are combined for the story.

Notes: Point out the line under the headline. Many students overlook this subtle graphic element. Headlines are the dominant text on a spread, and as such should be at least 2x as big as any other text on the page.

Working outward from the center of the spread, place photos, story and headline. All elements obey the grid.

Notes: Each caption box is a consistent size.

In this case, the square photo to the left of the quote defines the height of that area, making it less necessary for the quote to touch the gridlines.

Notice how everything of this page appears aligned and organized Notice how everything of this page appears aligned and organized. While readers may not necessarily know about the grids, the gridlines help the spread acquire a unified, cohesive look.

PRACTICE Sketch a layout using the grid in the Grid Structure exit ticket utilizing the rules outlined in this presentation.

USE You will be creating many designs, and it will be useful to stay consistent and aligned by using the grid structure.