10 Best Books on Graphic Design: A Deep Dive into Visual Creativity
There is more to graphic design than just making things look pretty.
It is about conveying ideas, stirring emotions and solving problems visually.
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced specialist, this field is always changing; therefore, it constantly demands more knowledge.
This is where books can be helpful! They are like mentors who fit into your pocket and share their wisdom whenever needed.
However, how do we find graphic design books that are worth reading among all of them available?
Don’t worry – I’ve done the hard work for you! I have sorted through piles of titles to present only the best ones.
And remember that those are not just any design books; they will transform your game and open your eyes while boosting creativity at once!
We will review these top 10 best books on graphic design, which can skyrocket your creative skills and give you a new outlook on visual communication.
1. “Thinking with Type” by Ellen Lupton
If you think picking nice fonts is what typography is all about, you’re in for a treat. ”Thinking with Type” by Ellen Lupton can be seen as the Rosetta Stone of the typographic world — it decodes the language and gives us a peek behind the curtain.
Lupton doesn’t teach us about typefaces; she tells us how to think using them. It’s like she hands us x-ray specs that reveal the skeleton of the design. These are some of the things we’ll learn:
- Choosing a typeface suitable for any project
- What different font styles say about us subconsciously
- Creating visual hierarchies with type
- Typographic etiquette: do’s and don’ts
- Lupton, Ellen (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 256 Pages – 03/12/2024 (Publication Date) – Princeton Architectural Press (Publisher)
But here’s what I love most: Lupton writes as clearly and engagingly as those designs she talks about. No jargon-heavy sentences that make your eyes glaze over. Instead, she uses wit (yes, really) — and real-world examples too.
Its practical approach is what makes this book so unique. Lupton doesn’t just talk at you about typography — she shows you how to use it yourself! Loads of exercises challenge you to apply what we’ve learned so far. It’s like having a gym for your fingertips.
And let me tell you, after reading “Thinking with Type”, not only will we know about typography… we’ll be thinking about it! That is a superpower within graphic design if I ever saw one.
2. “Grid Systems in Graphic Design” by Josef Müller-Brockmann
The term grid might be dull, but it could be a fascinating venture in visualisation under the hands of Josef Müller Brockmann. This guide is like a treasure map, showing where order can be found in design chaos.
Müller-Brockmann does not simply describe grids but uncovers their concealed potential as well. You will learn about:
- How grids can increase creativity and not limit it
- Mathematical principles for effective layouts
- Ways to create harmony and balance through design with grids
- Breaking the rules on the grid techniques (yes, you read that right!)
- 1st Edition
- Hardcover Book
- Müller-Brockmann, Josef (Author)
- German (Publication Language)
- 176 Pages – 10/01/1996 (Publication Date) – Niggli Verlag (Publisher)
But this book is more than just drawing lines on pages. The aim is to know what lies beneath visual communication structure. Müller-Brockmann demonstrates how they may also:
- Direct viewers’ eyes
- Create rhythm within designs
- Establish visual hierarchy
- Bring together different elements into one cohesive whole
It was first published in 1981, yet Grid Systems in Graphic Design remains more relevant today. Why? Because good design principles are timeless. Whether laying out print magazines or designing websites, these ideas shall provide solid groundwork for any project.
After reading this book, you will see grids everywhere and how best to use them to take your work from good to great.
3. “Logo Design Love” by David Airey
David Airey is the number one supporter of logos if they were actual people. His book, “Logo Design Love,” is like a backstage pass into the world of logo design, with tips on the trade and real-life examples.
However, beautiful logos aren’t all that Airey shows (although there are many). He takes readers through every step in creating a logo. Here’s what you’re going to learn:
- How to understand client briefs
- Methods for brainstorming and sketching ideas
- Presenting designs effectively to clients
- Refining and polishing your concept further
- Design as Business
- Airey, David (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 240 Pages – 09/11/2014 (Publication Date) – Peachpit Press Publications (Publisher)
But here’s where he goes beyond: Airey doesn’t avoid discussing the business side of logos. He discusses:
- Pricing freelance work right
- Difficult client management skills
- Legal protection of copyright law over design ownership rights
- Creating an impressive portfolio site or app
- Real-World Examples
I love this book – it doesn’t just advise on how best to create logos; nope! Instead, it illustrates ways other designers have solved different challenges by showing us their case studies, which makes me feel like I’m watching over some expert’s shoulder while they work away!
Practical for Every Designer Out There!
Whether you’re new, still trying to find your feet within the industry, or an old hand wanting to brush up on skills, look no further than “Logo Design Love”. It isn’t solely concerned with making pretty pictures but also deals heavily with knowing the strategic aspects behind successful brand identities from a psychological standpoint.
4. “The Elements of Typographic Style” by Robert Bringhurst
If “Thinking with Type” is the Rosetta Stone of typography, then “The Elements of Typographic Style” by Robert Bringhurst is its epic poem. Not only does this book teach you about typography, but it also makes you fall in love with it.
Bringhurst shares with readers his knowledge about the history, theory and practice behind printing, which includes:
- The evolutionary process of lettering from ancient civilisations until now is that we have digital technology at our disposal.
- Mathematical and geometric principles used in designing different fonts or typefaces.
- Select suitable combinations of types when working on various projects to achieve desired effects or impacts.
- Bringhurst, Robert (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 352 Pages – 09/27/2004 (Publication Date) – Hartley and Marks Publishers (Publisher)
This work stands out because Robert Bringhurst pays attention to small details. He does not just say that you should adjust the spacing between characters; instead, he gives instructions on how to do it like a master watchmaker would fix an intricate timepiece. Some areas that will be covered are:
- Subtle methods used for letterspacing;
- Creating perfect paragraph indents;
- Factors are taken into account during the hyphenation and justification processes;
- Doing math around page proportions, etc…
However, “The Elements of Typographic Style” is more than just another practical guidebook on typography. Bringhurst treats typesetting as literature, discussing cultural implications and aesthetic values. He urges people not to regard typefaces as mere tools and to recognise them among fine arts by themselves.
Though sometimes this publication may seem too technical for beginners, don’t be intimidated! The author’s language remains clear throughout, making it easy for non-experts in the printing industry to follow what he discusses here. At times, his writing becomes quite poetic; therefore, anyone interested in beautiful words will find something appealing too.
Upon completion of reading through “The Elements of Typographic Style”, you will become a better designer and an aficionado who can differentiate between good and bad fonts based on their appearance alone.
5. “How to be a Graphic Designer Without Losing Your Soul” by Adrian Shaughnessy
We must accept it – the sphere of design is no walk in the park. There are deadlines to meet, clients to please, and creative ruts that can make a person doubt their career choice.
This is why Adrian Shaughnessy’s book exists; it serves as an experienced mentor who will stand by your side through all the ups and downs of this industry.
Shaughnessy does not solely discuss design techniques (though he extensively touches on this topic). Instead, he addresses some of the biggest questions which every designer faces:
- How can you find your unique voice within creativity?
- Striking a balance between artistic integrity and commercial demands
- Coping with criticism and self-doubt
- Establishing sustainable careers in design
- Shaughnessy, Adrian (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 176 Pages – 09/08/2010 (Publication Date) – Princeton Architectural Press (Publisher)
Another strong point about this book lies in its pragmatic approach towards the business aspects of design. Some things that Shaughnessy covers include:
- Finding clients as well as keeping them
- Setting fair prices for one’s work
- Freelance ins and outs
- Building up/managing teams in design firms
What sets this book apart from others is how candidly it’s written. Unlike most authors who tend to gloss over problems faced by those pursuing careers in graphic arts, here we have someone offering genuine advice based not only on personal experiences but also upon shared stories told by various successful designers themselves.
“How To Be A Graphic Designer Without Losing Your Soul” appeals equally well to beginners and seasoned professionals looking for new perspectives on their craft alike – so whether you’re just starting at college level education programs or seeking refreshment after years spent working full-time jobs; there’ll always be something here for you.
It is the kind of publication people keep returning to at different points across their professional paths since they always manage to discover fresh insights from it.
After reading this book, one will become better equipped to become successful artistically and capable of building fulfilling careers around design that can last a lifetime without compromising mental wellness or burning out on creativity.
6. “Interaction of Color” by Josef Albers
Colour is not just about choosing pretty shades. This is an intricate and captivating field that can make or mar design. In his single book, ‘Interaction of Color’ Josef Albers presents what would be equivalent to a complete course on colour theory.
Albers does not merely teach us about colours; he also changes our perception of them. We will learn how different hues interact with each other through various exercises and examples, such as:
- The unexpected outcomes that come with colour relativity
- Creating an illusion of depth or movement through the use of colours
- Methods for blending diverse colour schemes harmoniously
- Albers, Josef (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 208 Pages – 06/28/2013 (Publication Date) – Yale University Press (Publisher)
What distinguishes this book from others is its practice-oriented nature. According to Albers, one had to get involved personally to comprehend what was being taught about colour. Therefore, many hands-on activities throughout the text require learners to play around with relationships between colours.
This work deals with more than just mixing paints. The author probes into deeper aspects concerning human beings’ understanding of light, including but not limited to:
- How our eyes perceive and transmit signals related to wavelengths called ‘colours’
- Emotional as well as cultural associations attached with particular shades across different societies worldwide
- Ways in which one can employ pigments strategically to elicit certain feelings or achieve desired effects in artwork compositionally speaking.
- The role played by various tints within visual communication processes among people living together within social settings.
‘Interaction of Color’ was first published in 1963, but it remains relevant today. This is because Albers based his findings on how we see things on earth upon fundamental truths about human vision that do not change even after decades have elapsed.
While primarily aimed at painters, the principles expounded herein apply equally well across all spheres of visual arts. Whether involved in designing logos, websites or product packaging, having deeper insights into colour interaction will take such creativity to greater heights.
Once you are through with ‘Interaction of Color,’ seeing will not be enough anymore – understanding should come along too. And this awareness shall always manifest itself in each design project that comes your way from now onwards.
7. “The Design of Everyday Things” by Don Norman
Have you ever tried to pull a door that was supposed to be pushed? Or wondered how on earth to use a simple gadget? Don Norman knows your pain. His book, “The Design of Everyday Things”, acts as a cryptex for the covert language of product design.
Norman’s concern reaches beyond aesthetics; he wants to know how things function. This will teach you:
- Ideas behind user-focused design
- Intuitive interface creation
- User behaviour psychology
- Common design mistakes and their remedies
- Product Condition: No Defects
- Good one for reading
- Comes with Proper Binding
- Norman, Don (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
This text stands out because it deals with practical, everyday design problems. Norman includes examples ranging from doorknobs to stovetops to explain his views better. You’ll never see a teapot in the same way again!
But “The Design of Everyday Things” isn't just about objects. It's about people, too. Some areas covered by Norman include:
- Information processing in our brains
- Designs based on different types of memory and attention spans
- Ways of designing for different users;
- Differentiation through feedback elements within user interfaces.
When it was first published in 1988 (under its initial name, “The Psychology of Everyday Things”), it became one cornerstone for user-centred design approaches worldwide. These principles remain relevant in the digital era as much as during the analogue devices epoch.
By reading “The Design of Everyday Things” till the last page, you are not only becoming a better designer but also an observant user, and this double perspective will make your creations while at the same time making them more successful in terms of being user-friendly – more effective, too.
8. “Graphic Design: The New Basics” by Ellen Lupton and Jennifer Cole Phillips
With the constant shift in design trends, it is easy for one to lose sight of the basics. This is where “Graphic Design: The New Basics” comes in. Think of it as a refresher course on design principles with a digital twist.
Lupton and Phillips take a fresh approach by not just repeating old design rules but showing how these timeless concepts can be used in today’s design challenges. You will learn about:
- Grids and layouts in responsive web design
- Hierarchy’s role in user interface design
- Texture and pattern creation for digital environments
- Creating depth and motion within 2D designs
- Lupton, Ellen (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 264 Pages – 07/14/2015 (Publication Date) – Princeton Architectural Press (Publisher)
The book shines through its practicality; every chapter contains exercises or projects that force you to apply what was taught beforehand. It’s almost like having your personal design workshop right at your fingertips.
Although it heavily focuses on digital media, “The New Basics” does not neglect traditional forms of media either. You will learn to apply these principles across different formats such as print, screen or 3D objects.
“The New Basics” is beautifully designed, considering it is a book about visual communication. There are loads of examples and case studies that help illustrate various vital points throughout the text. This means you don’t just read about them but also see how they work.
This book grounds you by teaching all the necessary basics, thus enabling you to break boundaries and develop new things. Knowing rules makes it possible for people to break them effectively.
Once you have finished reading “Graphic Design: The New Basics”, you will have mastered design principles and understand how these can be applied in different creative ways. This is like having an extra gear in your design toolkit.
9. “100 Ideas that Changed Graphic Design” by Steven Heller and Véronique Vienne
Have you ever wondered where design trends come from? Or how do specific methods become the norm? “100 Ideas that Changed Graphic Design” acts as a time machine, guiding you through the development of visual communication.
Heller and Vienne do more than list out key moments in design history. They show how past ideas continue to shape present-day design. You will learn about:
- The influence of early printing techniques on modern typography
- The beginnings of famous logos and brand identities
- How information design was affected by propaganda during times of war
- Graphic design practices after the introduction of digital technology
- Heller, Steven (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 216 Pages – 01/22/2019 (Publication Date) – Laurence King Publishing (Publisher)
Each of the 100 ideas is outlined concisely and engagingly. But these aren't just dry facts – they are meant to get your creative juices flowing. You might ask, “How can I apply this concept to my work?”
This book is powerful because it looks at graphic design from an international perspective. Heller and Vienne use examples worldwide to demonstrate how various cultures have contributed to a global design language.
As should be expected with any book about graphic design, “100 Ideas” is visually stunning. It includes numerous illustrations for each concept discussed, ranging from classic designs to contemporary interpretations.
While the volume offers an intriguing glimpse into historical aspects of design, it does not cater exclusively to such readership. Understanding where ideas came from in terms of their creation process or context can push them further ahead when dealing with future projects that are closely or loosely related.
If you find yourself blocked creatively or looking for fresh ways to approach challenges related to designing anything, consider adding this publication entitled “One Hundred Things Which Changed Graphic Design Forever” onto your shelf next time.
10. “Steal Like an Artist” by Austin Kleon
I understand what you’re probably thinking. “Steal? Isn’t that bad?” But Austin Kleon is not promoting plagiarism. He wants us to seek inspiration from others’ work and let it drive our imagination.
Kleon demystifies originality. According to him, there’s no such thing as a new idea; everything is either a mixture or an extension of existing ones. The steps are:
- Look at artists who inspire you.
- Get ideas and motivation from different places.
- Blend and reconstruct these influences into something fresh.
- By artist and writer Austin Kleon
- A collection of positive messages and exercises to realize your artistic side
- A New York Times Best-seller
- 10 Things nobody told you about being creative!
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There are many reasons why I’m in love with “Steal Like an Artist,” but the biggest one has got to be how it opens up creativity. You can do any of the following, according to Kleon:
- Start creating even if you don’t feel prepared yet
- Acknowledge your limitations and use them as guides for innovation
- Share your work, even when it’s not flawless
This book isn’t just about making art, though; it also offers down-to-earth advice on:
- Developing creative routines
- Staying motivated in the digital world
- Balancing your day job with other creative pursuits
- Building a community of like-minded creators around yourself
A Brief but Powerful Read At 100 pages, this book won’t take long to get through. But don’t let its brevity deceive you – the ideas will stick with you long after putting down the final page.
Coming from a writing background, Kleon speaks mainly towards writers; however, his tips can be applied across all forms of media production, e.g., graphic design, music, programming, etc.
Upon completing this manual, your mind about where inspiration comes from will be forever changed. You’ll be ready to steal like an artist – not by copying directly but by standing upon giants’ shoulders and adding your unique voice to the creative conversation.
Conclusion: Your Design Library Starter Pack
So, there you go! I believe ten books should be a part of every graphic designer’s library. These books touch on all design aspects, from the technicalities of typography and colour theory to philosophical inquiries about creativity and professional practice.
But here’s the thing: becoming a great designer isn’t as simple as reading all of them. They are not magic wands but rather tools. Magic happens when knowledge is applied in real-life situations. So don’t just read them – use them! Try out techniques described in those books, challenge presented ideas, and make them catalysts for your creative thought.
Also, remember that it’s not an exhaustive list by any means. Design is a vast field which keeps evolving with time. Therefore, stay curious – always look around for new things to learn because only then can you improve at what you do. Moreover, try going beyond accepted limits occasionally since that’s how breakthroughs happen.
And now, my friend, I want to say one last thing before signing off: Don’t wait too long before putting pen onto paper (or cursor onto a screen). The globe eagerly anticipates your next creation!
Best Books on Graphic Design FAQs
Must I read all these books to become a good graphic designer?
No, not really. While these books give insights that help one become a designer, it takes practice and application. Start with those you are most interested in and build from there.
Are these books for beginners?
Most are beginner-friendly, but some, such as “The Elements of Typographic Style”, can be pretty detailed. If you have just started, then “Thinking with Type” and “Graphic Design: The New Basics” are great places to begin.
How often should I go through them again?
It is good to revisit these books at different points in your career because as one grows more experienced within the industry, so does their understanding deepen.
Are there any online resources that go well with this list?
Many authors here maintain websites or blogs where they share more content. You can also sign up for design communities online or take courses which supplement what you learn from reading.
Can they be helpful even if my interest is digital, not print design?
Definitely, yes; though some have roots in print design, they teach principles applicable across all forms of visual communication, including digital design.
On a tight budget, which ones should I read first?
If it comes down to a few options, then go for “Thinking with Type”, “Grid Systems in Graphic Design”, and “How to be a Graphic Designer Without Losing Your Soul”. These three offer both technical skills and professional advice.
Do you recommend any newer graphic design books?
The graphic design field is constantly changing, so watch for recent releases; however, classics like these remain helpful due to their focus on foundational things.
How do they relate to current design trends?
Trends come and go, whereas what remains constant are timeless principles addressed by such books. Understanding these basics will enable one to navigate or even set current trends.
Can they replace formal design education?
These books provide knowledge but can only partially replace structured learning and peer interaction in school settings; however, they are excellent supplements to any design curriculum.
I’m an experienced designer. Will I still get something out of these?
Yes! Even people practising for many years can gain fresh insights or be reminded about important points. These texts are suitable for refreshing memory and sparking new ideas in one's work approach.
Last update on 2024-10-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
