When it comes to business, a well-crafted sign is more than just a display with your name on it; it’s a key piece of your marketing strategy. Whether you’re looking to increase foot traffic or ensure strong brand recognition, the perfect sign communicates your message clearly and leaves a striking impression.
At Landmark Sign, your trusted St. Louis sign company, we understand that creating effective signage requires strategic planning and design know-how. This guide dives into critical design considerations to help you create a sign that truly stands out.
1. Visual Impact and First Impressions
Your sign has to stand out in a world full of distractions. People often only glance at a sign for a few seconds, so its primary message should be instantly clear. Our St. Louis sign company can help you identify what works best for your specific location and audience visibility needs.
The “Glance Test”
A good rule of thumb is to ensure your sign passes the “glance test.” Ask yourself, “Can the message be understood within five seconds?” If not, your design might be too cluttered or unclear.
Bold and Simple Design
Choose bold visuals and clean layouts to grab attention, making sure your design remains uncluttered and purposeful. Eye-catching elements like large typography and compelling images can help boost your sign’s impact.
2. Readability and Font Choice
A beautiful design won’t matter if people can’t read the message. The success of your sign heavily depends on font choice, size, and legibility.
Choosing the Right Fonts
- Go for Clarity: Stick to sans-serif fonts like Helvetica or Arial for readability. Save decorative or script fonts for minimal use, if at all.
- Avoid Clutter: Limit your design to one or two font styles to keep it clean and professional.
Font Sizing for Every Distance
Your font size should align with how far your audience will be from the sign. For example, a 1-inch letter height is typically readable from up to 10 feet away. Scale up for outdoor signs or long viewing distances.
3. Strategic Color Use
Your choice of colors can make or break the visibility of your sign, and they also play a role in evoking emotions tied to your brand or message.
Use Color Psychology
Colors affect how people perceive your sign. For example:
- Red creates urgency and excitement.
- Blue conveys trust and calmness.
- Yellow grabs attention and evokes energy.
Prioritize Contrast
High contrast between text and background ensures that your message is easy to read. White text on a dark background or black text on a light background generally works well.
Consider Lighting Conditions
Think about where your sign will be displayed. A bright outdoor environment might necessitate darker colors, whereas low-lit indoor areas might call for brighter designs.
4. Graphics That Support the Message
Images and visuals can enhance your sign’s message, but only if they’re used thoughtfully.
Make It Relevant
Graphics should directly complement the message. For instance, a coffee shop sign might feature a cup of steaming coffee, subtly signaling its offering without saying too much.
Ensure Quality
Use high-resolution images to avoid pixelation, ensuring your design looks polished and professional. Additionally, brand-related visuals like logos and illustrations can add a personalized touch.
5. Materials and Durability
A visually stunning sign is useless if it falls apart. The material you choose should align with your sign’s purpose and location. Working with Landmark Sign, your trusted St. Louis sign company, ensures your materials are suited to the local climate and signage regulations, especially for outdoor installations.
Match Material to Environment
- Outdoor Signage: Use weatherproof materials like metal, acrylic, or weather-resistant vinyl.
- Indoor Signage: Materials like foam board or canvas can work well in controlled environments.
Think About Longevity
Consider how long you’ll need the sign. For long-term use, opt for durable materials that can withstand wear and tear. Vinyl might suffice for temporary banners, but aluminum or acrylic is ideal for permanent installations.
6. Size, Scale, and Proportion
Effective signage is all about balance. The size of your sign should fit the location, while its elements should harmonize for aesthetic appeal.
Get the Size Right
Ensure your sign is appropriately sized for its placement. A tiny sign on a large storefront might go unnoticed, while an oversized one can overwhelm its surroundings.
Maintain Proportional Balance
Design elements like text, graphics, and white space should be well-balanced. No single element should dominate the design unless it’s intentional, such as a striking headline.
7. Sign Placement and Viewing Context
Where your sign is placed significantly impacts its effectiveness. Sign placement dictates the design’s size, material, and layout considerations.
Location-Specific Considerations
- Outdoor Signs: These must be weatherproof and large enough to be legible from a distance.
- Indoor Signs: Generally smaller, these should appeal to viewers at closer range.
Assess Viewing Angles
Consider how people will interact with your sign. Are they walking past it, stopping to look, or driving by at high speeds? For example, a billboard on a busy highway should have a large, clear message, while an A-frame on a crowded sidewalk can be more detailed.
Bring Life to Your Signage with Landmark Sign
Creating the perfect sign requires direct attention to each design element while keeping the end viewer in mind. From bold visuals to careful material selection, these seven design considerations will help ensure your sign leaves a lasting impression.
If you want expert advice or a professional touch, Landmark Sign can help. With years of experience as a trusted St. Louis sign company, we’re passionate about creating signage solutions that work. From conception to installation, our experienced team makes sure that your message is delivered loud and clear.
