TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL POLITICAL LAWN SIGN – DESIGN COLOR

Sheila Maas

Cross & Oberlie

sales@aquecs.com

http://www.politicallawnsigns.com

Henry Ford said you can have any color Model T as long as it is black. More recently a survey by the University of Florida claimed that a yellow background with black lettering was the best color combination for a sign for attracting attention. In the packaging industry red is the favored attention getting color down the supermarket aisle. So there you have it! The experts agree to disagree.

So what color is best for your lawn sign? Answer: Take your pick as to what suits you best. In addition to not picking your opponents colors, here are some other helpful suggestions as to what not to do.

Consider Color Value

Never use a low value color(light color) with a low value color. For instance, pink lettering on a white background will not show up. All pastels (i.e. pale blue, yellow, pink, light green) will not contrast on white backgrounds. Interestingly flourescents, though appearing very bright, will not contrast on white. Choose a dark color with these (i.e. black, navy blue, burgundy, forest green).

Never use a high value (dark color) with a high value color. For example black lettering on a navy blue background will not show.

Lettering and background must always be of contrasting value in order to be readable.

Consider Environment

First remember white is the principal base stock color and is free. Red (or for that matter blue, green , orange, etc,) lettering on a white background is a one color print. So also is white lettering on a red background a one color print. This latter is referred to as "reverse printing".

For you northerners avoid white signs in the winter. To not have your sign "lost" against the white snow, use reverse printing (i.e. bright colored background with white letters). Similarly green backgrounds can get lost in more lush territories and/or seasons, or yellow signs against arid backgrounds. For a sign to be recognized it has to be of a color that is "out of place" - avoid khakis, gray and brown sign background colors.

Two Colors vs One Color

There has never been a one color design that can not be improved by adding a second color. Remember white as the base stock color is free. Two color printing to produce a yellow/black sign or a red/white/blue sign or a green/flourescent sign will always stand out with greater impact. For the printer, two colors require two films, two screens, two press setups, two runs and two cleanups. This costs money. So for a two color sign always expect to pay more per sign - but it may be worth it.

Hopefully these suggestions will aid in your color decisions for your lawn signs. If you have questions, do not be hesitant to consult with your screen printer.