Resource Suggestions for Foundational Layout Knowledge

[John Potts]

Hi, I have always wanted to learn about document layout and book design. I recently purchased Affinity Publisher and was wondering if the community had any books or websites that would be a good resource for a fundamental understanding of the process. Apologies if this isn't the proper forum for this topic.

[AlanPickup]

Many of us using Affinity Publisher have the need to use a more professional program than offered by word processors that have design capability, and this is because we have done our time in learning the basics of layout and design, there are no shortcuts, I am a dinosaur having learnt my craft in the days of hot metal and typesetting with a tough mentor, when a computer had to have it's own air conditioned room and Apple was something that grew on a tree.

There are many sites that give information about designing, a good one I have found, although it is aimed at Indesign users,  is http://www.indesignskills.com/  but the basics of design are universal. Search the web for samples and try to analyse what makes one design stand out above the next, look for the use of white space and how designs make something stand out to attract the eye. Sites like https://www.digitalartsonline.co.uk/ and https://dribbble.com/ can keep you informed about trends. You can download samples from https://www.freepik.com/ to use for ideas

Do not be afraid to show your work and accept criticism, because with the wealth of talent on this forum it will be beneficial.

Good luck for your learning path, but accept obstacles as a challenge.