While there are hundreds of tiny variables that play into the aesthetic properties of displays or banners, there are a few items that should be considered no matter what level of skill you have when it comes to graphic design. The following variables below will get you on the path to ensure that your audience will be able to see and read your message; which is the most important thing.

Sizing Up

If you have a sign, with a message that you want people to read, it is absolutely critical that they can actually see it. An important measurement you’ll want to consider when you’re putting this together is the distance between where you want to put the sign and where the audience will be when you’d like them to notice or read the message.

This distance will vary greatly depending on the placement and purpose of the message. For example, if you are a new store opening up and you want people to be able to read your grand opening signage from the road that is 300´ away, you’ll want your letters to be printed at 30˝ tall to get the maximum impact from your signage.

Refer to the size chart below to get a better idea of how large your print should be in regards to your distance. Keep in mind that the maximum readability distance is the size it would be for your audience to barely be able to read. If you’re wanting the message to get across, stick to the maximum impact column.

LETTER HEIGHT

READABILITY DISTANCE FOR MAXIMUM IMPACT

MAXIMUM READABILITY DISTANCE

.5˝

5´

15´

1˝

10´

30´

2˝

20´

60´

3˝

30´

100´

4˝

40´

150´

6˝

60´

200´

8˝

80´

350´

9˝

90´

400´

10˝

100´

450´

12˝

120´

525´

15˝

150´

630´

18˝

180´

750´

24˝

240´

1000´

30˝

300´

1250´

36˝

360´

1500´

42˝

420´

1750´

48˝

480´

2000´

54˝

540´

2250´

60˝

600´

2500´

In order to put all of this information into real life application, you can determine the type of sign you’ll need, based on the distance between your display or setup and your audience. For example, if you are at a trade show event and you’re looking to grab people’s attention from far away or across the room, then you’ll want to consider larger banners or banner wall displays. However, if you are wanting to send a message once people have approached your booth, then a table top banner might be more suitable for your needs.

Creating Contrast

Size is an extremely important factor when it comes to readability, but contrast is also a key ingredient that can often times be overlooked. Some colors are easier to read when paired or placed with other colors. There is also an entire psychology lesson that goes into how different colors make you feel and the different actions or responses that those feelings elicit when it comes to interaction with a brand. That being said, here are several color contrast pairings that will help you understand the importance of contrast.

Color Contrast Chart

When it comes to the psychology of color in the marketing world, every brand is looking to create something a little different than everyone else in order to create differentiation. A great place to start on determining what colors might fit your brand can be found here.

Type on Images

Try not to force what doesn't work. I can’t tell you how many times I have seen a banner with type on top of a photo and reading it is nearly impossible. If there isn’t enough contrast between your photo and your type here are a few suggestions to help you with this predicament:

  • Use a solid color block underneath the text. You can even decrease the opacity to make it so the block doesn’t take away from the entire image.
  • Use a drop shadow on the text to help it pop. Don’t get carried away with this tactic. You want a drop shadow that brings the type out, but subtle enough that it doesn't feel like you’re trying too hard.
  • Choose a font color that create more contrast with the image. Be sure that the color you choose still resonates with your brand. If you aren’t able to use a font color that still works with the brand, consider one of the other fixes above.

As you can see, there are so many ways that you can make sure that your banners are legible and to the point to get the most return on your investment. You can also invest in floor graphics, trade show displays and giveaways to make your brand even more noticeable. If you need help with the design, Banner Stand Pros has designers on site that will help you get the look and feel you want while also making sure that your sign is easily noticeable and legible. If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to call call 877-389-8645 or email us at [email protected].