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To make a visually appealing catalog layout, you have to understand and apply the Rule of Thirds.

In designer speak, the Rule of Thirds is dividing your custom catalog page vertically and/or horizontally into thirds, and then placing your most important elements within the divisions.

When you compose your page in thirds, you are able to provide an even amount of space in between elements in either the upper or lower third of the divisions. This allows for balance in the general appearance.

There are ways in which you can apply the rule in your custom catalogs:

The Rule of Thirds to Achieve Balance -

Provide a vertically symmetrical catalog layout where your headline is placed in the upper third portion of your page. Then put your logo in the middle third, and then the supporting copy (a descriptive one at that) in the lower portion. The lower third is used to make sure that your page is secure and won't look like it's falling out of proportion.

Another format would be to have an asymmetrical layout with most of your elements located in the upper third, as well as the leftmost third of your page. The focal point however, is placed around the intersection of both your top and leftmost lines dividing your page.

The Rule of Thirds to Achieve Visual Center and Balance -

Another designer trick is to place your most important element in the center of your page. This is generally easy as rough estimates will do. In fact, you don't have to be precise in doing your thirds.

When you do your thirds, remember to use a focal point (your visual center) and then place your element there. The visual center is usually located to the right and above the actual center of your page in your catalog.

The Rule of Thirds to Achieve Grids and Balance -

Contrary to dividing the page or finding your visual center, creating the foundation of your structure is more complicated. Nevertheless, you have to do it because it is necessary in making your designs.

In order for you to create balance in your page, your design should have grids that you can work on. Grids are invisible lines that allow you to rightly place your elements in their proper locations. The purpose of these grids is to let you have a more balanced layout as well as consistency in your design.

The structure of your grids depends on your design needs. It can be as simple as you want them to be, or as complicated. And from time to time, some of the grids used are noticeable. But most of the time, designers only make their grids become visible when they're working on their layout in a software program.

The Rule of Thirds can help you create a visually appealing catalog for your business. Use this design principle on your next catalog printing piece and see the difference it'll make for your business.

For more information, you can visit this page on Catalog Printing