When designing logos, I start by collecting all the essential information required and expected by the client. It’s important for every designer to understand the purpose, mission and objective of the company and get a solid understanding of the design outline.
Logos are an important tool for any business. It is placed in various media and marketing materials for multiple purposes. A logo does not necessarily have to be flamboyant and/or dazzling aesthetically; a simple and concise logo that conveys the intended message is what significantly matters, and effective as well. A great logo should be easy to remember and visually represent what your company stands for.
In this article I will talk about the linear process of creating a logo from my personal style and technique. There are various methods and steps required to complete the branding development but I will only be covering the basic principles every designer should follow.
1. Research
Research takes most of the time in logo creation, especially in the initial process. It is helpful if the client can work cooperatively with the designer working side by side to make sure that the whole branding is aligned together. Often the designer’s interpretation towards the branding outcome could be different from the client, therefore it’s important that the intended message is clear at an early stage to avoid any missed communication between the designer and the client.
During this stage, I also encourage the client to send three different examples of a logo, symbols or any form of art that they like the most as this will help the designer to identify and translate the client’s visual expectation. The style can be used as a reference to develop the logo.
2. Sketching Ideas & logo Development
This is the part where the designer begins putting down their ideas on paper; it’s the process where creativity comes into play. It is recommended for every designer to start their design process by sketching rather than creating logo ideas from software applications such as illustrator.
3. Creating the electronic version
Once you are done with all the sketches, it’s now time to select the best sketches and convert it into an electronic version using softwares such as illustrator so that the file is print ready.
4. Finding typeface
Choosing the right typeface can be challenging especially when trying to match a typeface with a logo. Its like choosing the right outfit to wear for the day; sometimes you’ll find the perfect outfit easily and sometimes it takes a while to find the right one. It’s similar to finding the right typeface for a logo; your intuitions as well as following the typeface rules is how a designer can find the perfect logo match. Check this website to see different types of typefaces available: https://typekit.com/fonts .
5. Applying Colour
Finally, choosing a colour for your logo. This can be the fun part in logo development projects, however, make sure when applying colours to the logo that there are no more than two to three colours. Combining colours could be difficult and it takes years of experience to be able to mix and match a variety of colours for design purposes. Check out this website to get some ideas for colour combinations: https://color.adobe.com/
6. Approval
Finally, once all the steps above are completed, you’re ready to present the final product to your client.
How to create a logo
