- It would be simple to provide a list of projects
and the corresponding correct grid.
There are the basic guidelines
directed by the specific final media.
We know that newspapers,
books, websites, exhibitions,
and posters have unique grid requirements.
These are tried and true
and exist because they work.
Within these, there are variations that can be used.
Knowing which variation is best
is based on your idea and the content.
My first job is to determine the message
and from that message,
the attitude or personality
will help determine the type of grid to use.
Let's take the example of
a booklet for a surf shack in Hawaii.
The client has asked me to use
images, the logo, and given me text
about the activities.
This is the first question I ask.
What is the message?
If it is catering to a more traditional audience
at a high-end resort,
I might use a symmetrical grid
and treat the images like fine art in a gallery
with an ample border.
I make a grid with margins,
two columns, and three hang lines.
This divides the pages equally in half,
vertically and horizontally.
If the message is that the surf shack is hip and modern,
the grid may be assymetrical.
I'd probably use imagery that is contemporary
and bleed off the edges.
The grid will have three columns
and an odd number of hang lines,
forcing me to be assymetrical.
There are some designers
who use the same basic grid structure
on every piece.
This is great if you can do this
and the work is fresh and clear.
But I think a wedding announcement
should look different than a newsletter.
And modifying the grid
based on the content and intended use
creates the important difference.