Shapes are all around us, and they play an essential role in our daily lives. From the geometric patterns in buildings and housewares to the curves of nature, shapes are part of our visual vocabulary. But do you know their names and characteristics? Let’s take a closer look at the printable shapes chart and learn more about these building blocks of design.
Circle
The circle is perhaps the most recognizable of all shapes. It is a closed curve in which every point is equidistant from a single central point. The circle has no angles or sides, and it represents unity, infinity, and completeness. Circles are found in nature, such as in the sun, the moon, and the Earth.
Square
The square is a two-dimensional shape that has four straight sides of equal length that meet at right angles. It has four corners and four angles of 90 degrees each. The square represents stability, balance, and harmony. Squares are common in architecture, such as in windows, tiles, and doors.
Rectangle
The rectangle is a four-sided flat shape with two pairs of parallel and equal-length sides that meet at right angles. The rectangle has four corners and four angles of 90 degrees each, just like the square. However, unlike the square, the rectangle’s opposite sides have different lengths. The rectangle represents practicality, proportion, and versatility. Rectangles are used in graphic design, such as in banners, posters, and websites.
Triangle
The triangle is a three-sided polygon that has three straight sides and three angles that add up to 180 degrees. Triangles can be classified into several types based on their sides and angles, such as equilateral, isosceles, scalene, acute, obtuse, and right. The triangle represents stability, strength, and dynamics. Triangles are used in art, such as in compositions, patterns, and logos.
Crescent
The crescent is a curved shape that resembles a moon in its first or last quarter. It has a convex side and a concave side that meet at two endpoints. The crescent represents transition, transformation, and femininity. Crescents are used in jewelry, such as in earrings, necklaces, and bracelets.
Star
The star is a symmetrical shape that has five or more points or rays that extend from a central point. Stars can be regular or irregular based on the angles and lengths of their rays. The star represents aspiration, inspiration, and brilliance. Stars are used in decoration, such as in Christmas trees, curtains, and wallpapers.
Heart
The heart is a symbolic shape that resembles the outline of a human heart. It has a curved top, a pointy bottom, and two lobes that meet at the top. The heart represents love, affection, and emotion. Hearts are used in art, such as in paintings, sculptures, and tattoos.
Diamond
The diamond is a four-sided shape with two pairs of parallel sides that meet at opposite angles. The diamond has a pointy top and bottom and slightly curved sides. The diamond represents strength, elegance, and beauty. Diamonds are used in jewelry, such as in rings, necklaces, and bracelets.
Oval
The oval is an elongated shape that resembles a squashed circle. It has two curved sides and two symmetrical ends. The oval represents fluidity, grace, and movement. Ovals are used in design, such as in logos, buttons, and containers.
Pentagon
The pentagon is a five-sided polygon that has five straight sides and five angles that add up to 540 degrees. The pentagon can be regular or irregular based on the lengths and angles of its sides. The pentagon represents power, stability, and order. Pentagons are used in architecture, such as in government buildings, military monuments, and bridges.
Hexagon
The hexagon is a six-sided polygon that has six straight sides and six angles that add up to 720 degrees. The hexagon can be regular or irregular based on the lengths and angles of its sides. The hexagon represents harmony, balance, and unity. Hexagons are used in nature, such as in honeycombs, snowflakes, and crystals.
Octagon
The octagon is an eight-sided polygon that has eight straight sides and eight angles that add up to 1080 degrees. The octagon can be regular or irregular based on the lengths and angles of its sides. The octagon represents transition, stability, and wholeness. Octagons are used in architecture, such as in churches, fountains, and clocks.
Cube
The cube is a three-dimensional shape that has six square faces of equal size and shape. The cube has eight vertices and twelve edges that connect them. The cube represents stability, harmony, and balance. Cubes are used in mathematics, such as in geometry, algebra, and calculus.
Cylinder
The cylinder is a three-dimensional shape that has two parallel circular bases connected by a curved lateral surface. The cylinder has a height, a radius, and a volume that varies based on its dimensions. The cylinder represents motion, energy, and transformation. Cylinders are used in mechanics, such as in engines, pumps, and pipes.
Sphere
The sphere is a three-dimensional shape that has a smooth and curved surface that is the same distance from a central point. The sphere has a radius, a diameter, and a volume that varies based on its dimensions. The sphere represents perfection, oneness, and infinity. Spheres are used in science, such as in astronomy, physics, and chemistry.
Now that we have learned more about the printable shapes chart, we can appreciate the complexity and beauty of shapes in our world. Shapes are not only functional but also inspirational, and they reflect our creativity, innovation, and culture. Let’s continue to explore and experiment with shapes in our personal and professional lives.
