How to Understand and Use Design and Layout

by Alan Swann

Book Overview

"Based on the best-selling edition by Alan Swann." This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 089134358X
• ISBN13: 9780891343585
• Release Date: January 1991
• Publisher: Northlight
• Length: 144 Pages
• Weight: 1.05 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.4" x 8.8" x 8.7"

Customer Reviews

Book not for General Designers

This book targets all Designers (Designers in Print, Packaging, Web Design...etc), so I would not suggest it if you are looking for a specific book about your choice of field in design. It is also not suitable for designers who knows the basics of design, because it talks a lot about elementary stuff. Generally it is a good, easy to read book with lots of examples and excercises.

Excellent Resource for Beginning Designers!

New designers will appreciate Swann's illustrated step-by-step process from learning design principles to developing the concept to completing the project. His case studies also are very good.Swann has a pleasant writing style that is illustrated nicely throughout the book -- certainly makes it easy to get what he says and apply it. And he still believes in "thumbnail sketches" -- which aren't touted enough in today's digital world. Artists, including graphic artists, should still be able to sketch an idea. I also believe that to be true.I have used both the old and the revised editions of this book and recommend all of Alan Swann's books (irregardless of age) be added to the beginning design library. There's something valuable to be learned in every one of them. I am happy to see that "Design and Layout" was selected for revision. It is a fine resource.

Excellent Format For Fluid Reading and Clear Learning

I was looking for something more than a "picture book" as many publish today. This book delivers the goods! Both in design and syntax, the author brings the novice through the fundamental stages of creative pagination. Don't buy another graphic design book until you own and read this one. No beginning gdesigner should be without this on their bookshelf.

Excellent content and visual examples!

The book is easy to read, dividing the core elements of good design into three primary sections/stages. One doesn't only learn how to create a good-looking piece of design, but more importantly, WHY it looks good -- i.e. how to ensure good design can become a personal habit.I found the book a most helpful, easy to read guide, and loved the real-life examples in the last section.

HOT! HOT! HOT! Must have for students and new page designer

Must have! Learn how to choose shapes, right proportion for lines, typefaces, headings, text size. Learn to mix and match typefaces, colors, sizes of page elements and learn practical applications. The book displays wonderful layout ideas that will get your own ideas flowing. GREAT BOOK!