Combine your initials and use the space around them on purpose.
What you will learn.
Refine the same two-initial mark begun in Create a layout and explain its solid letters, open spaces, and intended impression.
Before you begin.
Reuse the sketches and selected mark from Create a layout. Use your first-and-last-name initials, or two initials you use to represent yourself if that pattern does not fit your name. A clear paper sketch photographed into the C27 Academy file is acceptable.
Learn the concept.
Combine your initials
Words to know.
Monogram
A mark made by combining letters, often your initials.
Initials made into a mark
Stroke
A line or part of a letter.
A line around or through a shape
Negative space
The open area around or inside the letter shapes.
Unfilled space around parts
Refine
Make a chosen idea clearer by improving its details.
Improve the details
The idea in practice
See a worked example.
Keep your references separate from your own sketches.
For examplePlace the source image beside, not on top of, your own sketches.
Use words such as “calm” or “lively,” then show how the shape supports them.
For exampleA wide, rounded letter may feel calmer than a sharp, narrow one.
Judge the mark at the size people will see it, not only while zoomed in.
For exampleShrink the mark to its real use size before deciding it works.
Worked two-letter example. Start with the letters C and A. Share one vertical stroke so the C frames the A; leave enough open space to see both. At a small size, check that the A does not disappear. If it does, widen the gap, keep the earlier mark, and compare again. “Calm” is an intended impression, not a measured audience finding.
