Tip #1 - Keep it simple.

It’s very easy to clutter up your ad with too much text and busy graphics. Each ad should be carefully planned on a case by case scenario. What print medium is the particular ad for? When designing for a brochure or a magazine ad you can get away with more text and graphic elements since your potential customer will be holding the ad in their hand with more time to read it. However, when designing for something like a billboard, the opposite is true. Your potential customer driving by your ad usually has only a few seconds to read the message. No matter the medium, a design that is clear and concise will retain attention and be the most effective. When in doubt, it’s best to err on the side of simpler is better.

Tip #2 - Use legible fonts.

Your print ad will only be as good as the fonts you choose. Overly ornate and hard to read fonts spell disaster for print advertising. While decorative fonts can be used sparingly in some cases, the majority of your font choices should consist of legible text. Be mindful of font weights as well. Steer clear of text that is too bold or too thin. When it comes to the number of different fonts used, a good rule of thumb is no more than three. Blasting your ad with a wide mix of fonts can wreck havoc on an otherwise good design.

Tip #3 - Be smart about color.

When choosing colors for your print ad, less is more here, too. Splashing too many colors across your design can make the ad feel busy and amateurish. One smart option is to choose colors from your logo/brand and go from there. Want to add more flair? Pick two complementary colors or two analogous colors for a streamlined, cohesive design. Pay close attention to text on top of color as well. Always make sure enough contrast exists for maximum readability.

Tip #4 - Stay true to your brand.

No matter what, when designing for print advertising, always stay true to your brand. Does the ad reflect the personality and mission of your company? Is the ad complementary of your website and social media? Step back and look at the large picture of your business and make sure your ad fits within it’s borders.

Need more tips and help with your print advertising? Contact OmniMaze today!