1. Line, Form, Depth, and Space
Modified by the Georgia Agricultural Education Curriculum Office
July, 2002

2. Types of Line Line provides structure and shape in an arrangement
Line expresses mood & feeling
Types of lines:
actual line
implied line
psychic lines

3. Actual Lines Plain to see
The eye follows a real line existing in the design
Foliage and flowers can provide an actual line; so can containers and accessories
Set up the skeleton of the design

4. Implied Line No line actually exists
Created by a series of repeated elements

5. Psychic Line
Does not exist as actual lines or even repetition of materials
Created by placing flowers in a way that directs the eye
Directional facing: term used to describe placing flowers in a way to create line

6. Line Direction Direction of lines in a design express certain feelings
4 patterns of line direction
vertical
horizontal
diagonal
curved

7. Vertical Line Stresses height, power, strength
Causes continuous movement of the eye from focal point to the top edge and back to focal point

8. Horizontal Line Stresses width instead of height
Implies restfulness and stability
Provides eye movement at a slow and leisurely pace

9. Diagonal Line Suggests motion and excitement
Too many diagonal lines can be busy and confusing

10. Curved Line Suggests motion in a soft and comforting way
Adds interest and gentleness to a design

11. Form Refers to the 3D aspect of an object Also known as shape
The form of the container, flowers, and foliage in a design must be harmonious

12. Space Area that containers and flowers occupy is positive space
Area between forms in an arrangement is negative space
A void connects one area of positive space to another
Space is necessary to keep the flowers from looking cramped

13. Depth
Depth in arrangements is important to keep from creating a 2D effect
Achieved by angling stems, overlapping, size differences, and color

14. Angling Stems Exaggeration of stem angles provides depth
Tallest background stems are angled backwards while front stems are angled down in front of the container

15. Overlapping Slight overlapping of flowers enhances depth
Varying height, width, and depth of flowers creates a natural appearance

16. Size
Large flowers should be arranged low and toward the front in a design
Smaller flowers should be placed toward the back
Gradual transition from large to small is important

17. Color and Value
Bright and dark colors should be placed low and in the front
Move toward lighter and duller colors in the back