What is the best way to size a logo that will go on everything (websites, SM, van, etc.)? Should I scale up the size before design for future bigger printouts or keep it at SM/website sizes?
Use a vector-based program like Adobe Illustrator/Affinity to create your logo.
Vector graphics are resolution-independent so that you can scale the logo to any size without pixelation.
Start with a base size that’s suitable for most uses, such as 1000px x 1000px or an equivalent measurement in inches (e.g., 5x5 inches).
Focus on proportions rather than physical dimensions since scaling will happen later.
i.,e, have different versions, horizontally stacked, vertically stacked, icon only, text only etc so that it can utilised on different mediums with ease.
Prepare multiple versions of your logo for different uses:
Web and Social Media: Export in raster formats like PNG/JPEG at appropriate sizes (e.g., 72dpi for web use) or use SVG for website responsiveness.
Print you can maintain the original vector file for professional printing.
If you’ve used spot colours you can also use PDF.
Don’t design in RGB or CMYK as these will be device dependent in print and colours may shift.
By specifying spot colours it gives printers references to the Pantone colour books to match.
(Also get physical Pantone Books to pick colours from).
Get printed samples of your logo - in various stocks of paper.
Pantone 021 looks extremely different on different stocks (coated/uncoated).
Prepare variations of Pantones for different scenarios.
Large-Scale (e.g., Van Wraps): Provide the vector file directly to ensure rasterised files are at high resolution
Don’t design at “SM/website sizes” only; these are too limiting.
Instead, focus on clean, scalable vector paths that allow for effortless enlargement.
Avoid overly intricate details that may become indistinguishable when the logo is reduced in size for social media icons or other small applications.
Style Guide
Specify how the logo should be used in terms of clear space, colour variations, and size restrictions etc. This ensures it looks consistent across all platforms and materials.
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