How to make a sign with impact

A good sign doesn’t need to shout to be noticed. In most cases, it just needs to be clear, well placed and easy to take in at a glance because people rarely stop to have a proper look at signage.

Keep it simple and readable

The biggest mistake people make with signs is trying to say too much, so just make sure it’s got one clear message. Short, direct phrases are far easier to process than long sentences.

Readability matters just as much as wording, too. Choose a nice font that’s clean and easy to recognise from a distance, with enough spacing to avoid it being cluttered. Contrast is also really important, with light text on a dark background, or the reverse, being the best idea.

Think about where it will be seen

Have a little think about where your sign is going when you design it, for example, a roadside sign needs to be larger and bolder than something you’re putting in a shop window. Things like lighting and surrounding distractions all play a part in how well a sign does.

When you’ve put the sign up, see if it needs to be changed. Adjusting wording, spacing or positioning can make a really big difference once the sign is in place. Local services, such as sign makers Exeter for example, //exeter.nettl.com/signs, can help to fine-tune the final result.

So, keep it simple to have the biggest impact. If it’s clear and designed with its setting in mind, then your sign is going to have a really nice impact.