From the course: Logo Design: Visual Effects

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Texture: Tactile messenger

Texture: Tactile messenger

From the course: Logo Design: Visual Effects

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Texture: Tactile messenger

These logos may look like they have a traditional gradient to them, but on closer inspection they've used a much coarser and irregular texture. This process, called mezzotint, is ideal for logos because the texture holds up even when reduced. A precursor to traditional halftones, the Italian term mezzo means half and tint refers to tone. So literally, halftone. Because this technique was used generations ago, consumers perceive its use as vintage, or hearkening back to a period of superior craftsmanship. It is a subtlety, but I can assure you, the method of tonality or register can not be overlooked. Be aware a logo created with this technique that is too contemporary may appear to be a bit of a mismatch in the public's mind. If these designs appear to be shoddily stenciled with a can of spray paint, so be it because that's exactly their intent. A rough texture with a coarse over spatter will give the essence of either an industrial application or someone tagging where they shouldn't…

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