The Elements of a Solid Sign Design
Last month we discussed why having a quality sign is important. In a nutshell, it’s the most visible representation of your brand, and your first impression can make or break whether a potential customer walks through your doors or not.
So, we have that squared away. You know you need a good sign to enhance your business and brand, but what about the how?
In other words, what can be done to effectively achieve a sign with the perfect look? Leonard Bernstein once said on art that “the measure of its success is the extent to which…it invites you in and lets you breathe its strange, special air.” Those are good words to live by, and they suggest that a great work of art (which is what your sign is) maintains individuality and originality, while invitingly appealing to those who lay their eyes upon it.
A picture says 1000 words, so here are some tips for creating a sign that’ll show just the right image to leave your clientele wanting to know more:
Sans the Serifs: Keep Your Typeface Simple
The most important thing to remember when it comes to signage typeface is that legibility comes first and foremost to fanciness. That means in just about every case, a simple and legible sans-serif font is going to be your best bet. Sure, maybe that decorative script font looks tastefully ornate to you, but if your patrons can’t make out what it says at first glance, your sign is pointless. Helvetica, Futura, Avenir and Franklin Gothic (just to name a few) are timeless sans-serif fonts that could look excellent on your sign!
The Importance of Negative Space
When it comes to music, they say the notes you don’t play are equally as important as the ones you do. Much the same can be said about your sign and logo. Think outside the box when it comes to utilizing the white space. One famous example you can look to as a starting reference is the FedEx logo. Specifically, look closely at the “E” and the “x.” Can you make out that arrow in the negative space? Let’s do something just as brilliant for your brand!
Simplicity Is Key
Going off our typeface tip now, keeping the whole thing simple is the way to go. Saying a lot with a little can be tricky, but it’ll allow you to really face what’s most important about your company. What themes are so integral that they can’t not be involved in your sign? You should be able to narrow that answer down to two or three points. Ever hear the saying less is more? Of course you have! Well, it’s true.
Let a Professional Take Care of the Work
If all this sounds great but you’re still at a loss for where to begin, there’s no need to sweat it because that’s where we come in! As a premier Philadelphia sign company, you can rest assured knowing that we’ll do all of the above to help you create something that stands out and effectively represents who you are.
Get in touch today and we’d be happy to assist you in realizing your perfect sign!
