The more we understand software, the more flexibility we have when designing with typography especially when it comes to versals. According the Google’s dictionary, versals are the “oversized initial letters usually colored in red or blue and characterized by exaggerated curves, vertical strokes, and serifs (also called Lombardic Capitals)." Designers not only make the oversized letter to start the text off in their layouts, but they make the text wrap around it too. Every little tool that software has to offer can be the single answer to polishing up an awesome design. Digital designers are no different from any other artists. To get that professional look in their layouts, they have to thoroughly understand software tools.

Recently, I saw the play "Lion King" and the stunning colors, exuberant choreography, and the perfectly orchestrated danceable music all harmonized so wonderfully together. Graphic designers can learn from this stage play—to capture and hold the interest of their audience, design elements need to be fine-tuned and orchestrated together too. It sounds easy--but it is not easy to do! At times, I exhaust myself from thinking of ways to organize my racing thoughts and wonder how I’m going to pull my thoughts together. In order to truly get organized, we need to divide up our ideas, organize our thoughts, and strategically put it all together. Versals are only a single part of many design elements in layouts, and there is not hard-and-fast rule as to how to use or design them.

If you are not sure if you have made your versal correctly, show your layout to others. In fact, you should always solicit critiques and feedback from your peers. Others can see things that the artist has not noticed—everyone seems to interpret information differently, and artists should welcome feedback because of this. You’ll find with every versal you make, it’ll get easier. Nothing beats time and experience.

Debbie Jensen, http://www.debjensendesigns.com

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