Helpful Design Tips to Create Eye-Catching Vinyl Banners

Designing vinyl banners from scratch can be a complex proposition for a business owner, particularly if you have not had previous experience. However, if you have a basic idea on the message you want to convey, all you need are a few design tips to get you started. Of course, once you bring your ideas to the sign company you hire to produce your banner, be sure to listen to their expertise as well when choosing colours, graphics and other design options.

How to Choose the Right Font Style

One basic rule of thumb is to use no more than two font types on your vinyl banners. When you try to be too creative and use multiple font types, it can overwhelm your sign and actually repel attention rather than attract it. Also, use upper and lower case letters when at all possible as it can take longer for people to decipher text displayed in all caps.

Your main message would be best served with a font that offers clean lines like Antique Olive or Futura whereas your supporting message might benefit from fonts with a slightly "artistic" bent like Broadway or Lithograph. Of course, exceptions can be made when choosing fonts for your sign, depending on the business. For instance, a stationary store or bridal shop might benefit from script fonts for their sign as it better relates to the type of business.

Select Appropriate Graphics and Colours

Use graphics such as your logo or clip art to grab the attention of potential customers but not to the point that the graphics overwhelm the text message. If people only concentrate on the picture, they lose the message. Rather, the picture should draw the eye so the natural progression is reading the message that goes with it.

Also, choose a colour combination that is a great contrast between the background and text. Light coloured text on a dark background or vice versa will make your banner signage really pop and boost consumer viewing effectiveness.

Overall Layout and Estimating Viewing Time and Distance

It is important that you allow for some margin space to create an easy to read sign. If you stretch your design and text from edge to edge, you leave no margin of error in regards to display placement of your banner and how you fit it to your banner frame. Also, keep in mind the viewing distance and time a customer has to see your signage. If your business is located in a busy area with plenty of traffic, the font size for your banner should be large enough to see from the street by drivers whereas a location that relies primarily on foot traffic can likely get away with a larger message using a smaller font. It's all a matter of viewing perspective.

If you can keep in mind these design tips, you will likely be able to create some great vinyl banners to display for your business. Great exposure to the public through signage will translate into new customers and higher sales.