I designed my own written language for the final for a Graphic Design class. It was a lot of fun, making up words with no meaning and establishing rules for grammar that don’t need to be enforced. I got a lot out of the project so I thought I would share it with you. Here are some designery words from the syllabus outlining the assignment:

Project 3: Modular System of Forms

• Use a grid as a design and production tool
• Generate varied forms from the same grid
• Design forms that are distinct yet visually related
• Resolve formal and aesthetic issues through experimentation
• Practice hand and/or computer skills

My language is comprised of nine characters and the style reminds me of those cool symbols that the predator has on his arm computer. A student in my class pointed out today that they look like constellations.

Here are two books that explain grid systems well. The second link has some nice preview pages.

Grid Systems in Graphic Design/Raster Systeme Fur Die Visuele Gestaltung

Making and Breaking the Grid: A Graphic Design Layout Workshop