ZINE DESIGN

ZINE DESIGN

The concept was reliant on keeping minimal, so the content is the main focus. To avoid repitition (as there are a lot of quotes) different colour schemes were used to keep the reading process enjoyable, as there are not many images. 

Z-folding was employed to create A3 poster prints and avoid content disappearing in the crease. Overall it came out well, there was an issue with not taking the left-hand page into consideration, so it was left blank, this is the main annoyance during the design process, paying the cost for not doing a test print. 

Colour scheme for specific pages were chosen to compliment each other, but also to make the type stand out. 

The zine is perfect bound with 160gsm stock used to produce a magazine aesthetic. This was all done to keep the selling cost down to a minimum. Through research the content was labelled as being not of high interest to most, so the decision was made to keep the potential cost’s as low as possible. Initially the plan was to print on newsprint to make it a free publication, which would make it an ethical product as it is creating awareness on an issue. However due to time management print slots were not available for 2 weeks. 

COVER DESIGN

The idea here was to keep it as minimal as possible. It was created with the purpose of opposing contemporary design, and traditional branding tactics for editorials. The zeen expresses the message of good design being based on more than just the aesthethic. This was transcribed through the design. The stock is printed with soft touch laminate, to draw touch and engagement, it is also very satisfying. This was chosen instead of coating as the durability of the print is improved, which could incur a higher priced fee, but this choice was made instead of velvet lamination, so the price could be kept down, whilst still maintaining quality of print. A drawback for this printing method is the finger marks it develops. 

The stock is bright red with black type to draw attention, with minimal techniques applied with maximum effect intended. 

LAYOUT

A grid system was used to establish a set of guidelines for how elements should be positioned within the set layout. A consistent layout and composition was used, helping the viewer understand where to find the next piece of information within the layout. It sets expectations and defines the rules, timbre and in some cases voice of the design. 

TYPE 

The main serif font used was inspired by ‘The Matrix’ films digital type rain sequence. It has connotations of expressing instruction, which is strongly based on the tone of voice for the zeen. It also relates to bureacratic forms and previous official document typefaces. Overall it fits with essence of the zine.