Repetition in Graphic Design: Understanding What it Means and How to Use It


Repetition has a soothing element to it. It lets you know what to expect: what's coming next and what you can expect to see. In graphic design, repetition can create that same soothing feel or highlight specific elements of your piece while adding texture and interest.

Do you know how to use repetition effectively in graphic design?

What Does Repetition Mean in Graphic Design?

In graphic design, repetition means simply using the same element over and over again. Often, repetition is a great way to add texture to the piece. Not only does it create an element of unity within a specific piece of artwork, but repetition can also help create texture and bring the project to life. Sometimes, repetition is a natural part of the graphic design process, especially when creating logos and websites. For example, website viewers expect the brand's logo to repeat on every page, usually in the same general area of the page. They also expect menus to occur in the same general location and to have the same layout regardless of when they click on them. These elements of repetition help visitors know exactly what to expect and how to interact with the page, which can help increase confidence and create a positive reaction to the content on the page.

Repetition is also an excellent way to highlight specific elements that you want to focus on or to help drive home a message you want to convey to your audience.

How to Use Repetition in Graphic Design

Using repetition effectively in graphic design is very important. Choosing the right design software, like CorelDRAW, will allow you to easily use repetition in your design elements while ensuring that you maintain consistency in every area of your design. When using repetition, consider these key factors.

1. Use repetition to help establish branding.

When consumers think of your brand, what do you want them to associate with it? You may want to repeat specific elements of color or specific images that relate to your brand in order to connect them with a specific product.

2. Use repetition to increase familiarity and comfort.

Consumers want to know what to expect when they interact with a product or brand. When someone visits your website, for example, repetition helps them know exactly what to expect, creating a sense of comfort that can help enhance the overall experience and tie to your brand.

3. Incorporate repeated messages into your content to help connect them to your brand or design.

You might, for example, have a specific tagline or motto that you want to be associated with your branding and your content. If you have a character in a graphic series that you want to stand out, that character might have a specific line or phrase they use on a regular basis. The more often people encounter information, the more likely they are to remember it and to connect it with you. Through repetition, you can help their brains pick up that information.

4. Utilize repetition to establish texture and add life.

Repetition can be the difference between a boring, static image and one that pops off the page or screen. Add in repeat elements to help create that important emotional reaction or to make your work feel more realistic.

Conclusion

Repetition occurs naturally in the world around you. In graphic design, you can take that element to the next level, highlighting specific elements of your designs and helping to create a sense of familiarity. Check out CorelDRAW today to learn more about our platforms and how we can help you take your designs to the next level.


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