Balance refers to the condition wherein different elements are equal or in same proportions in terms of size or weight. It gives the feeling of uniform distribution of weight ensuring equilibrium, steadiness, repose, stability and rest in the design. Balance in the design is so usual that one who is creating it is also not ware of it; in its absence the design lack the sense of agreement. Each part of garment must interact with all the others to achieve stability. This stability can be obtained by grouping shapes and colours in a manner the there is equal visual weight on either side of the imaginary centre in a design. Thus balance distributes the visual interest in the design.
Types of balance There are three types of balance on the basis of the distribution of the visual interest in the design:
It is also called as symmetrical balance; elements/ objects at each side of the imaginary centre axis is identical in each aspect of every element or very similar such that they appear as mirror images (Fig.8.5). It is observed in most of the natural and man-made things like men, animal, flowers, furniture, building, etc. It is further of grouped as follows:
Vertical balance; is created when the upper part balances the lower part
Horizontal balance; is created when either sides of centre axis balance each other
It is easy to create and gives maximum stability to the design. It produces dignified and serene effects; quite obvious in nature but appears quite monotonous at times.
It is also called asymmetrical balance; elements/ objects at each side of the imaginary centre axis are dissimilar in each aspect of every element or few elements (Fig.8.6). However, the end product has overall feeling of equal weight distribution. It is difficult to create in the design and is less obvious but it produces more interesting effect.
It is a combination of the horizontal and vertical balances where the elements of designs integrate around a centre of gravity to create the design. In other words, the elements of design radiate out from the centre point in a circular fashion. Hence it keeps concentration of weight near the centre.
Participants