Week 5 Task: Custom CSS Theming

Week 5 Task: Custom CSS Theming

Exploring CSS and HTML in My Graphic Design Process

As part of my graphic design process, I had to edit HTML to understand how websites are styled and structured. This experience, while challenging, offered valuable insights into the technical side of web design and how it complements visual design work.

The Challenge of Understanding CSS and HTML

I found this task quite difficult as I'm not very use to arranging code, I’m usually working with visual tools like Photoshop or Illustrator. However, working with code required a shift in perspective. Instead of dragging and dropping elements, I had to write and edit lines of code to make changes to a webpage’s appearance.

My changes were minor—adjusting text colours and font sizes. These small changes, were satisfying and provided a glimpse into how powerful these tools can be.

The Importance of Learning CSS and HTML

Although my foray into coding was limited, it became clear how valuable these skills can be for graphic designers. Understanding CSS and HTML allows for better collaboration with web developers and ensures that designs are not only visually appealing but also practical to implement. Even making small changes, such as refining typography or aligning elements, can have a significant impact on a website’s overall aesthetics and usability.

Future Benefits of CSS and HTML Knowledge

I see immense potential in continuing to build on this knowledge. In future projects, a solid understanding of web design principles will enable me to:

  1. Enhance Collaboration: Communicating effectively with developers requires a shared understanding of the tools and techniques involved in building a website.
  2. Refine Designs: Being able to make adjustments directly within the code means I can experiment with layouts and styles in real time.
  3. Expand Opportunities: Familiarity with coding opens up new possibilities, such as creating interactive prototypes or even building entire websites independently.

Final Thoughts

Although my initial experience with CSS and HTML was challenging, it was also rewarding. While there’s still much to learn, I’m excited about the opportunities this knowledge will bring to my future projects. By continuing to develop these skills, I can create designs that are not only visually compelling but also functional in the digital world.