PRINCIPLES OF DESIGN AND APPLICATION

Lesson 7: Definition of Motifs, Pattern and Design

All over or repeat arrangement

1. An all over arrangement is composed of the unit or series of units, repeated according to some definite method so that the entire surface of any given area is decoratively covered. Stripes, checks and plaids also come under the category of all over patterns.
2. This type of design is somewhat more difficult to produce than border design. Since its area is not like border which is an enclosed space confined within boundaries.
3. A satisfactory all over pattern should be flat (2D), compact and continuous in effect so that we are more cautious of the all over pattern than of the individual units of which the pattern is composed. It should move rhythmically and easily without any interruption.
4. All over patterns range from exceedingly simple to very complex and there exists certain prescribed method with which the repeat plan of the motif can be worked out. The repeat unit that makes a pattern should decorate but not destroy the surface, which it covers.
5. A successful surface design is one which seems as a pleasing whole without a broken appearance. The colour should be carried through the design in order to presume the intended rhythmic pattern rather than to break it into disorganized points of interest.
6. The arrangement of motif (Fig.7.7) may be one way (e.g. figures or other motifs in one direction only), two way (e.g. stripes) and four way (e.g. checks). The design motifs may also be arranged in continuous vertical, horizontal or diagonal columns.
   
   

   
   

   
   
7. The same motif printed using different systems or directions can be dull and boring or interesting and beautiful. Beauty and interest in design are secured by contrasting form, size, tone, colour and through a proper scale and proportion.
8. To obtain good results it is very important to create a positive balance between background and design space i.e. negative and positive design areas respectively.