Understanding Signage Purpose
Before diving into the design, consider the purpose of your sign. Is it meant to convey information, promote a product or event, or simply grab attention? Once you have a clear goal in mind, brainstorm some ideas and draft a rough sketch.
Collaboration and Materials
Both the designer and the business owner should talk to the sign manufacturer to understand how the sign is constructed. A conversation with the sign manufacturer will help you understand what you can and cannot do when designing a specific type of sign.
Visual Elements
Go Big With Color and Graphics. Color can be one of the most important design decisions you will make when working on a sign project. You need to approach it with two things in mind: branding, identity, contrast and visibility. Sometimes these two concepts will conflict. Generally, graphics and color should be bright and saturated. Avoid light colors or pastels.
We have collected for you the best signage design tips to help you create signs that grab everyone’s attention by creating contrast, hierarchy and improving readability. Read on for tips on creating a site that’s functional, appealing and on-brand.
Key Design Elements
Let’s look at six elements you need to include on your signs, plus a few bonus tips for effective signage:
- Text—the primary way to communicate information to the audience.
Creating Custom Signs
This guide covers principles, planning, design elements, materials and fabrication, installation and maintenance for custom signs that become invaluable assets.
Designing a sign online allows you to perfectly reinforce branding or message. With the right tools, you can ensure your sign stands out and fulfills its purpose.
Local Inspiration and Brand Alignment
Take cues from signs in your area and research the business’ branding and mission for inspiration. About 17% of Best Buy’s customers stopped specifically because they saw the sign, which matched their branding and marketing.
Simple Steps for Sign Creation
- Write a simple message with a large enough font size to reach your expected audience.
- Create high contrast to make your sign eye-catching.
Online Tools and Tips
CustomSigns.com is your go-to destination for making signs online. Avoid clutter – Successful signage communicates a message concisely. Clean, crisp, easy-to-read type styles should be used for maximum legibility.
Color and Legibility
Pick Colors Carefully and make sure signage is readable by using larger letters.
Sign Materials and Styles
Choose your material/style. The choice of colors plays a key role in creating a unique and memorable signage design.
Digital Sign Making
To make signs on the computer:
- Choose between a horizontal or vertical format by selecting your page’s orientation.
- Make a PDF file to send to the print shop.
Creating a Vinyl Sign
If you’re creating a Vinyl Sign:
- Determine the dimensions of your sign.
- Open up a word document and utilize simple fonts.
Using Templates
Custom sign maker provides you with a wide range of different templates. With a user-friendly interface and drag-and-drop features, our sign maker simplifies the design process.
E-signing Digital Documents
If you need to sign a document immediately but don’t have a printer, use Xodo’s free PDF signing tool to e-sign PDF files and digital documents instantly and directly from within your browser.