Which term is used for the surface finish of a design element?

• A. Texture
• B. Color
• C. Form
• D. Value

Answer: (A)

Texture is the surface finish of a design element. It describes how a surface feels or appears to feel—from smooth and glossy to rough or grainy, even embossed patterns. Texture adds tactile or visual interest and can be actual (a real surface) or simulated (drawn or photographed). This is different from color, which is about hue and saturation; value, which is about lightness or darkness; and form, which is the three-dimensional shape. So when you think of the surface finish, you’re thinking about texture.