How to Make a Custom Banner: A Complete Guide

Gone are the days when you were limited to store-bought banners. You’re about to learn how to make a custom banner that resonates with your audience and helps you make an impact at the event.

Step 1 – Get a Powerful Printer

Before you start the design process, you first need to acquire the tool necessary for the job – a printer. And not just any printer. You need a large-format device compatible with transparency paper. If you don’t want to buy one, consider finding a copy shop with this kind of machine.

Step 2 – Choose Appropriate Text Size

The last thing you want is to make a custom banner that makes passers-by squint because the text is too small. It should be easy to read from a distance. The bare minimum is 70pt, but you may need something much bigger (e.g., 400-700pt) to make sure everyone can read your banner, whether or not they have vision problems.

Step 3 – Prevent Image Pixelation

An image may look good on your computer, but it might turn out entirely different when printed. One of the effects you need to worry about is pixelation. Pixelation happens when you enlarge a picture to fit your paper (in this case, a banner), but it turns out so large that you can see the individual pixels. This makes your banner look unprofessional.

To prevent this, make sure your picture has an appropriate dots per inch (DPI) count, which depends on the viewing distance. Here are a few viewing distances and suitable DPIs:

• 2 feet – 300 DPI
• 3.3 feet – 180 DPI
• 5 feet – 120 DPI
• 6.5 feet – 90 DPI
• 10 feet – 60 DPI

Step 4 – Focus on Your Brand and Choose Appropriate Colors

The goal of your banner is to promote your company. As such, it should contain images and colors relevant to your enterprise.

The logo of your organization should be in the spotlight. Another good idea is to place the company motto above the logo to let your audience know what the organization stands for.

When it comes to the color scheme, use the background as a guideline. A general rule of thumb says that the banner should be a different color than the background so that it doesn’t get drowned out. For instance, if the backdrop is red, consider an orange, blue, or pink banner for some much-needed contrast.

Step 5 – Incorporate CTAs and Contact Information But Don’t Go Overboard

When you’re at a trade show, you’re typically the one who provides potential customers with contact information. But what if some people are in a hurry and have no time for a conversation? In that case, you still want to give them a way to reach out to you.

That’s where your banner comes in. When designing the banner, make sure your phone number, email, and website are visible from afar. You can even include QR codes and social media hashtags relevant to your marketing campaign. A few CTAs here and there won’t hurt either.

However, don’t add too many elements. Contrary to popular belief, some blank space is good on banners because it contrasts with other colors. Plus, it can produce a calming effect and keeps the viewers from being overwhelmed by busy, crowded designs.

Most guides on how to make a custom banner require you to use a large-format printer, which can set you back thousands of dollars if you buy the device. Likewise, visiting a copy shop is too much of a hassle, especially if you have to attend dozens of trade shows and conferences.

You need a way to make your custom banners faster without burning a hole in your pocket.

Enter Custom Banners Now. Go to the website, and you’ll be able to create unique tailor-made banners that accurately reflect your brand. No heavy-duty or expensive equipment is involved. It’s just you, your computer or smartphone, and tons of customizability options.

Here’s why Custom Banners Now can be a real game-changer when it comes to making your banners:

• Variety of banners available – You won’t need the same banner for every event. Custom Banners Now understands this, which is why we provide different types of banners. Whether you want a billboard, vinyl, or pole banner, explore our collection to find a suitable product.
• Customization galore – The effectiveness of your banner depends on the graphics. That’s why Custom Banners Now lets you customize every feature of your banner, including the size, text font, colors, shapes, and materials. Fine-tune each element to create a striking illustration.
• Dependable technical support – If you need help designing your banner, the Custom Banners Now customer assistance will be your North Star. Reach out to us, and we’ll work together to craft the most amazing banner.