Creating custom signs that look professional and visually appealing involves careful planning, design, and attention to detail. Here are key tips to make custom signs look great: For more information and details visit www.lakelandsigncompany.com.
1. Clear, Simple Design
- Keep it uncluttered: Simplicity is key. Focus on a few essential elements, such as the main message, logo, or graphic, and avoid overcrowding the design.
- Use white space: Give your text and images room to breathe by including empty space around them. This makes the design easier to read and visually balanced.
2. Readable Fonts
- Use legible fonts: Choose fonts that are easy to read from a distance. Sans-serif fonts are often preferred for signs, especially for outdoor or large-scale signs.
- Font size matters: Ensure that the size of your text is appropriate for how far away the viewer will be. As a general rule, one inch of letter height is readable from about 10 feet away.
3. High-Contrast Colors
- Use contrasting colors: Ensure your sign is easy to read by using high-contrast color combinations, like black on white or yellow on dark blue.
- Limit the palette: Stick to 2-3 main colors to maintain a clean look and ensure the design isn’t overwhelming.
4. Quality Materials
- Choose the right material: Use high-quality materials suited for the sign’s location (e.g., weather-resistant materials for outdoor signs, smooth finishes for indoor signs).
- Vinyl for vehicle wraps and window signs: If you’re doing vinyl graphics, make sure you use high-grade, durable vinyl that can withstand environmental wear.
5. Effective Use of Graphics and Logos
- Simple, recognizable graphics: Use bold, clear images or logos that represent your brand well. Avoid overly detailed graphics, as they may not be readable from a distance.
- Consistent branding: If the sign is for a business, ensure that the colors, fonts, and logos align with your overall branding for a cohesive look.
6. Consider the Environment
- Placement matters: The location of the sign can impact its visibility. Make sure the sign is placed where it can be easily seen by your target audience.
- Lighting: If your sign will be used at night, consider backlighting or reflective materials to ensure visibility.
7. Call to Action (CTA)
- Make it actionable: If the sign is for advertising, include a clear call to action, such as “Call Today,” “Visit Our Website,” or “Order Now” in a prominent and readable font.
- Use directional cues: Arrows or other design elements can help guide the viewer’s eye to important information.
8. Professional Design Software
- Use vector graphics: Design your sign using vector software like Adobe Illustrator or CorelDRAW to ensure crisp, scalable graphics.
- Work with templates: Many sign companies offer templates that can help you design your sign with the proper proportions.
9. Test the Design
- Preview at actual size: Print out a test version of the design or view it on-screen at the intended size to ensure everything is legible.
- Get feedback: Before finalizing, ask others for their opinion on readability and overall appearance.
10. Hire a Professional Designer
- If you’re unsure about your design skills, hiring a professional graphic designer can ensure your custom sign looks polished and effective.
By combining these elements, you can create custom signs that stand out, attract attention, and communicate your message effectively.