Graphics Reference
In-Depth Information
maintains them in a direct relationship. The width of the columns depends, as noted,
on the size of the running text type. If the column is too narrow, excessive hyphenation
is likely, and a uniform rag will be difficult to achieve. At the other extreme, a column
that is too wide will make it difficult for the reader to find the beginnings of sequential
lines. By studying the effects of changing the type size, leading, and spacing, the de-
signer will be able to find a comfortable column width. Traditionally, the gutter between
columns is given a measure, x, and the margins are usually assigned a width of twice
the gutter measure, or 2x. Margins wider than the column gutters focus the eye inward,
easing tension between the column edge and the edge of the format. This is simply a
guide, however, and designers are free to adjust the column-to-margin ratio as they see
fit. In a column grid, there is also a subordinate structure. These are the flow-lines:
vertical intervals that allow the designer to accommodate unusual breaks in text or im-
ages on the page and create horizontal bands across the format. The hangline is one kind
of flowline: it defines the vertical distance from the top of the format at which column
text will always start. A flowline near the top of the page might establish a position for
running headers, pagination, or section dividers. Additional flowlines might designate
areas for images (specifically) or different kinds of concurrent running text, such as a
timeline, a sidebar, or a callout.
Visual Logic
Structuring the Page
Intuitive Arrangement
Integrating Type and Image
Layout Systems
