Contrast is a design principle that draws attention by making elements very different from each other. It is created when two elements differ in attributes like size, color, texture, orientation, or spacing. Strong contrast is most effective and avoids creating conflict by making differences clearly distinct rather than slight variations. Contrast aids in organizing information and creating interest on a page.

1. Design Principle 1: Contrast
What is Contrast and how do I use it?

2. Principle of Contrast
If two items are not exactly the same,
then make them different. Really
different.

3. Key Points
• Contrast draws your attention
• Make elements very different
For contrast to be effective, it must be
strong. Don’t be a wimp.

4. How is Contrast Created?
• It’s created when two elements are
different
• NOTE:
– If two elements are sort of different, but
not really, you don’t have contrast, you
have conflict!

5. Creating Contrast
• Contrast large type with small type
• Thin line with a thick line
• A cool color with a warm color
• Smooth texture with a rough texture
• Horizontal element with a vertical element
• Widely spaced lines with closely packed
lines
• Small graphic with a large graphic

6. Main Purpose
• Create an interest on the page
• Aid in the organization of information

15. What to avoid:
• Avoid making slight differences
– Sort-of-heavy line with a sort-of-heavier line
• Brown text with black text
• Two or more typefaces that are similar
REMEMBER: IF THEY’RE
NOT EXACTLY THE SAME,
MAKE THEM DIFFERENT!