Unit 1 · SeptemberCompleted

Visual Design Foundations & Digital Identity

Build your visual voice using vector tools, color theory, and personal symbolism.

Vector designColor theoryPattern makingDigital export

Unit Vocabulary

Composition

The arrangement of visual elements within a design or artwork.

Color Palette

A selected set of colors used consistently throughout a design.

Vector Graphic

An image built from mathematical paths rather than pixels, making it infinitely scalable.

Visual Identity

The collection of design elements — colors, shapes, and marks — that represent a person or brand.

Contrast

The difference between elements (light/dark, large/small) that creates visual interest and hierarchy.

Motif

A recurring visual element or pattern used to create unity in a design.

Stencil

A template with cut-out shapes used to reproduce a design by applying paint or ink through the openings.

Projects in this unit

Project 1

Digital Mood Board

Curate images, colors, and textures that represent your visual identity and aesthetic.

Objectives

Identify your personal color palette (3–5 colors)
Collect at least 12 images that represent your aesthetic
Organize images by theme or mood
Write a 2–3 sentence artist statement describing your visual identity

4 materials

4 tips

Project 2

Identity Icon

Design a personal vector icon — a symbol, initial, or abstract mark that represents you.

Objectives

Create a vector icon using only shapes, lines, and fills (no photos)
Use your mood board color palette
Design must work in both color and single-color versions
Export at 300dpi for print and 72dpi for web

3 materials

4 tips

Project 3

Digital Vector Quilt Pattern

Create a repeating quilt pattern using vector shapes and your chosen color palette.

Objectives

Design a pattern tile that repeats seamlessly in all directions
Use at least 3 colors from your established palette
Incorporate your identity icon or elements derived from it
Create a final pattern at least 8x8 inches at 300dpi

3 materials

4 tips

Project 4

Printable 1:1 Craft Stencil

Export your icon as a full-scale printable stencil for use in Unit 2.

Objectives

Export icon at true 1:1 scale (actual physical size you'll use)
Convert design to solid black shapes on white background
Add 0.25-inch border and registration marks
Test print on regular paper and verify dimensions with a ruler

4 materials

4 tips

Reference: Elements of Art

Elements of Art infographic — line, shape, form, value, color, texture, space

Fiber Arts & Appliqué Craft