5 Step Logo Guide
First and foremost congratulations on your business! Taking the leap to brand your idea is the first step to taking it from a dream to a reality. This simple 5-step logo guide will help you get started with your brand identity.
Before you begin, download the free trial of Illustrator. Don’t be intimidated, you’re just going to be using the text and shape tools.
Step 1. Choose one of these classic fonts
To start, type your business name in each font. Play with lowercase and uppercase to get a feel for each distinct font style.
Helvetica
Gotham
Bodoni
Proxima Nova
FF Din
Clarendon
Futura
Gill Sans
Step 2. Get fancy with typesetting
After you’ve picked your favorite, explore line weight, spacing and case. Thin line weights are nice for a brand that is elegant, fancy and refined. Thicker line weights feel consumer friendly, sturdy and reliable. Don’t be afraid to mix and match!
Step 3. Add an icon to your logotype
After you have finalized your logotype, it’s time to add a simple icon. A quick technique is to overlay the initial(s) on a shape like a circle, square or diamond. But it would be ideal to use an illustration or memorable shape when possible. Check out the Noun Project — a place to find great icons and illustrations (but be sure to read up on how licensing works).
Step 4. Add Color
Every visual identity needs a color to unify the brand. Thanks to Tobias van Schneider we have Color Claim where you can choose a few colors that fit with your product or service.
Step 5. You’re done, lay it all out!
Create a logo sheet by repeating your new logo and icon in all its varieties including color and black and white. Pro Tip: Overlay your logo on a beautiful photo in white to show context and usage.