Design Element: Line

Line is one of the Elements of Design.

Line is a mark connecting any two points.

There is an endless number of lines that you see and use in art.

But… technically speaking, there are only 2 types of lines:

Straight

and Curved

The rest of the lines – are just variations or combinations of these two types.

When it comes to line styles, you can group them into 4 style categories:

1. Solid

All kinds of continuous lines.

2. Interrupted

All kinds of interrupted or broken lines: dashed lines, dotted lines, footprints or tire marks.

3. Implied

Implied lines are the lines you assume.

These lines are not actually drawn, but you can see them as a border between other elements.

A good example would be a horizon line.

4. Psychological

Psychological lines are the lines that are not physically present. You cannot see them.

They are generated by our minds based on other subjects.

So the four line style groups are:

• Solid
• Interrupted
• Implied
• Psychological

What lines can do for you:

Lines organize information

Lines can group elements

Lines can emphasize

Lines can connect

Lines can create movement

Lines can guide