How to Print Logos

Creating a logo in a vector-based program allows the logo to be resized easily.

A logo is a direct reflection of a company's image. In order to create an identity for a company that stands out and creates instant customer recognition, you will want to invest in artwork that will print at a professional level. Transferring a logo from screen to a printed medium takes a little planning and a few helpful hints.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Adobe Illustrator or other vector-based imaging program
• Printer
• Paper

Instructions

1. Create your artwork in a vector-based program such as Adobe Illustrator. Vector art tracks object relationships through ratio and proportion. You can scale your artwork to any size and the image quality will stay the same.

2. Consider the purpose of your logo and where it will be printed. Logos printed on darker backgrounds will stand out more if they are done in light, bright colors. Bold, dark colors will show up best on light backgrounds. Simple, recognizable shapes translate well between large and small formats. Complex designs lose detail when scaled down to fit something like a business card. Make necessary changes to your logo design to suit your most important needs.

3. Change CMYK colors in your image file to Spot Colors or PMS colors to guarantee that your logo will print in the correct hue. Use PMS swatches to choose and compare your colors on your screen to those on the printed page.

4. Save several versions of your file. JPEGs, PDFs, TIFs and GIFs are all pixel-based image files that require you to save your file at the exact resolution and size that you plan to print. If you are using a printing service, ask your printer if they prefer a vector file and use your original vector file where you can. It does not require a resolution value for print and can be resized to fit any format.

5. Choose your paper medium and effects. There are many paper options available for at-home printing, and even more available at your local print house. Professional printers are capable of creating effects that home printers cannot, such as embossing, spot varnishing, die cuts and foil stamps.

Tips & Warnings

• Have your logo designed by a professional who knows how to create a file that will print professionally.

• Check copyright laws before creating your logo. Never use copyrighted material in your logo.

References

• Worldwide Printing: Logo Design
• Deviant Art: What Is Vector Art?
• Printfing For Less: Special Custom Printing Effects

Resources

• Designious Times: Why Use Vector Packs to Design?