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# Criss Cross · Structure Through Intersections
- URL: https://blog.garypercival.com/criss-cross-structure-through-intersections/
- Published: 2026-03-29T15:00:50.000Z
- Updated: 2026-03-29T15:00:49.000Z
- Description: Letterforms built from intersecting strips. Repeated, offset, and layered until structure emerges from simple crossings.
- Author: Gary Percival
- Tags: #behindtheposter

## Why this week’s poster

I wanted to explore structure through repetition.

One strip is nothing.  
Two create a crossing.  
Repeat that crossing and a system appears.

The idea came from intersection.  
Simple elements meeting, overlapping, reinforcing.

The phrase followed: Criss Cross.

Not decoration.  
Construction.

The letters are not drawn.  
They are assembled.

## The build

• **Elements.** Narrow strips with a rough plaster-like surface. Slight variation to avoid uniformity.  
• **Letters.** Built from repeated verticals and angled crossbars. Intersections define the form.  
• **System.** Same logic applied across every letter. Consistency creates cohesion.  
• **Texture.** Subtle surface irregularities to catch light and break flatness.  
• **Lighting.** Soft top-down key 〰️ minimal fill 〰️ controlled shadows to emphasise overlap.  
• **Composition.** Grid-based layout. Repetition carries the image.

## What worked

• Intersections create depth without adding complexity.  
• Repetition builds rhythm across the page.  
• Texture gives presence without relying on colour.

## What I’d push next time

• Push variation in strip width slightly further.  
• Explore a darker background for contrast.  
• Test breaking the grid to introduce tension.

## Notes for fellow designers

• Build from one rule and repeat it. Systems scale better than ideas.  
• Intersections create hierarchy without extra elements.  
• Texture should support form, not compete with it.

## Print details

- Edition: open weekly release
- Sizes: A3

## Close

Structure does not need complexity.  
Repeat a simple idea long enough and it becomes something solid.

![Minimal typographic poster built from repeated crossing strips creating structured letterforms.](https://storage.ghost.io/c/92/bc/92bc4aa6-fb0d-48c9-88cc-6bb1e109d23d/content/images/2026/03/Ghost_Post_Images-1.jpg)

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