Ultimately, we want our designs to contain beauty and meaning. This is not easily done. Since *lines* is one of the elements of design, we never want to overlook how lines can enhance or detract from our work. Lines should be used in such a way that they improve the tone and quality of designs. In the way lines are used, they add a unique signature to artistic expressions. To illustrate, everyone forms the lines in their handwriting and signature according to their own biological thumbprint. This same principle holds true for artists.

In nature and in most designs, there are a large variety of lines that range from short to long, thick to thin, smooth to jagged, and curved to straight. Straight, angular lines bring structure, strength, and stability to designs; while curved, smooth lines generate movement and grace.

As we continue to raise our awareness for the creative arts, we need to remember the importance of lines and be mindful of how lines are used in nature. For instance, some varieties of palm trees have leaves with straight folds in them, yet the shapes of the leaves are circular. And as for man made designs, notice the body styles of today's motor vehicles. If lines on motor vehicles are too straight instead of those nice curves, cars would not be as visually pleasing to us. Even landscapes have more appeal when curves are incorporated.

Straight and squared off lines are predominantly used for books, magazines, business cards, brochures, and paper in general. Straight, angular lines look great on architecture with complementary curved lines to set it off. The form of kitchen tiles are straight and grid-like and contain the