I have heard that one of those design rules is that an ampersand should never be the first character in a line of copy. Can anyone tell me the rationale behind that. Sometimes it seems like it looks better when the ampersand is the leading character. Thanks for your help.
Posted by Bob Darnell (Member # 27) on :
I don't think I've heard that "rule" before.
I assume you mean when you are breaking a single line of copy into two lines. I'm just guessing, but I would say that the rational is probably that since it is a conjunction (I think) and not containing any relevant information by itself, it's role should be given less significance than at the start of a new line.
However, I don't let design rules prevent me from trying things. I'll put ampersands at the start of a line if it's the right thing to do. I just let my eyes guide me.
I think design rules are a tremendous asset to always keep in mind, but are not set in stone. The trick is to understand why the rule exists, then you can bend it as the situation dictates.
My opinion, anyway.
Posted by Joe Rees (Member # 211) on :
In paragraph use, that might be true, I agree with Bob though that there may be times it fits better visually to drop it to the next line. In headline use (like in signs) I'd have to say it's strictly a visual placement. Throw rules to the wind.
Posted by timi NC (Member # 576) on :
Traditionally the ampersand rather than placed at the beginning of the next line of copy in a multiple heading was placed in between the 2 lines of copy,hence some of the wild ornate elaborations on the ampersand to fight the negative space between those 2 lines of copy.Often as not it is a good place to put a flourish or some ginger bread due to all the negative space.I have also seen it enlarged to the point the two headings have to overlap it successfully.
[ February 06, 2002: Message edited by: timi NC ]
Posted by Stephen Deveau (Member # 1305) on :
I agree with Timi As a ortamental connection between two pieces of copy. Signs & Signs
[ February 06, 2002: Message edited by: Stephen Deveau ]
Posted by bronzeo (Member # 1408) on :
happy fingers
[ February 08, 2002: Message edited by: bronzeo ]
Posted by bronzeo (Member # 1408) on :
I just finished one yesterday. I thought it looked fine.
[ February 08, 2002: Message edited by: bronzeo ]
Posted by Tim Whitcher (Member # 685) on :
I think it reads better when the symbol begins the second line of copy. Separate lines work as a comma on signs. I think it reads better as: "Quality Signs, & Design; rather than Quality Signs &, Design. Just my humble opinion.
Posted by ScooterX (Member # 2023) on :
i never heard that "rule" before either.
what i do notice is that because its more unusual, the ampersand becomes a "bullet" (as in bullet list) when at the beginning of the line. sometimes you want this, and sometimes not.
One Two & Three
One Two & Three
One Two & Three
each of these variations puts the emphasis on different words. here are some examples where those distinctions might make sense:
Cheatem, Chargem & Flee
Waffle House & Bar
Signs Pinstriping & Design
you can compensate for this by using a simpler ampersand, or by beefing up the preceeding or following copy.
Posted by Mark Matyjakowski (Member # 294) on :
OH CR*P, I didn't know that rule and just put a design that breaks it in that design cost thingie. Man, should'a read this post first. What a dufus I am haha
