Before&After: How to Design Big Signs

Big signs are everywhere—along freeways, on storefronts, at trade shows, in museums—but no matter how big they are, they share a paradox: At normal viewing distance, they appear small. The key to good design, therefore, is to treat a big sign the same as a tiny one. This 16-page article from issue 50 of Before&After Magazine shows you that the key to designing big is to think small, whether you’re making trade-show banners, billboards, wayfinding signs or wall posters.

The key is to use one image, few words, simple typefaces, no overlaps (because you need clear silhouettes)—all to keep your design simple.

© John McWade/Before&After Magazine, courtesy of Gaye Anne McWade.