How to Match Signage to Your Brand

Matching your signs to the rest of your brand can take a little preparation before you go to speak to a sign maker.

Pull Your Exact Colour References

It’s common knowledge that colours are displayed differently on a computer screen than they are on printed products such as vinyl for signs or painted metal. It is a good idea to include in your briefing all the colour references from your brand guidelines including the Pantone references, the CMYK breakdown and the hex values. This will mean that the sign maker is working with the exact same information as you have used for all of your brand materials and therefore the sign will look the same.

Check Your Typefaces

Many fonts are only licensed for use in print or online, therefore it is likely that a substitute font will be needed. Please bring the name of your logo font and a printed sample of it. We will then attempt to match it as closely as possible with an alternative font.

Scale Your Logo Properly

A fine detailed design on a business card can look awful on a large sign at close quarters. Always ask for a scaled up proof before going to print. This will highlight any problems with fine lines, small text and tight spacing.

Think About Outdoor Light

Also consider the signs in relation to light. In sunlight colours can change, and some finishes are more prone to fading than others. Enquire about the use of UV-resistant inks and powder-coating or anodizing of metal. These methods will keep colours looking as good as new for longer.

Keep Every Touchpoint Consistent

Your shopfront signs, A-boards and window graphics should look like a family of related signs. A useful reference for Signage Exeter is https://exeter.nettl.com/signs/.

A little planning upfront will avoid costly errors down the line.