How a design is built from layers

Every design you will make here is a stack of layers. Think of clear sheets laid on top of each other: a background colour at the bottom, a photo above it, then shapes and text on top.

Layers let you change one thing without disturbing the rest. Move the headline, and the photo stays put. Hide the photo, and the background shows through.

Try it in your head

Look at any poster near you. Name the bottom layer, the top layer, and one layer in the middle. That habit is the first skill of a designer.