A great poster can stop people in their tracks. A bad one gets ignored, or worse, makes your brand look unprofessional. Whether you’re advertising an event, promoting a product, or marketing your business, following a few key do’s and don’ts can make all the difference.
Here’s a simple guide to poster design do’s and don’ts to help you create posters that actually work.
Poster Design Do’s
DO keep your headline clear and bold
Your headline should instantly tell people what the poster is about. Keep it short, punchy, and easy to read from a distance. If someone glances at your poster for three seconds, they should still get the message.
DO use strong, high-quality visuals
Images should support your message, not distract from it. Always use high-resolution photos or graphics, sharp visuals help build trust and make your poster feel professional.
DO include a clear call-to-action
Tell people exactly what you want them to do next – Call Now, Visit Today, Book Online, Scan the QR Code. A poster without a call-to-action is a missed opportunity.
DO choose simple, readable fonts
Stick to one or two fonts and make sure they’re easy to read at a glance. Clean typography helps your message stand out and keeps your design looking polished.
DO add essential contact details or key information
Make it easy for people to follow up. Include your phone number, website, social media handle, or event details like date, time, and location.
Poster Design Don’ts
DON’T overload your poster with text
Posters aren’t meant to explain everything. Too much text overwhelms readers and stops them engaging. Keep copy short, clear, and impactful.
DON’T clutter the layout
Cramming in too many elements makes your poster hard to read. Use white space to guide the eye and give your design room to breathe.
DON’T use poor colour combinations
Avoid colours that clash or make text difficult to read. High contrast between text and background is essential, especially for headlines and CTAs.
DON’T use low-quality or pixelated images
Blurry images instantly reduce credibility and can damage your brand’s reputation. If the image quality isn’t good enough, don’t use it.
DON’T try to make everything stand out
If everything is bold, nothing is. Choose one main focus and design around it. A clear hierarchy helps viewers understand what matters most.
The best posters are simple, focused, and purposeful. By following these poster design do’s and don’ts, you’ll create designs that grab attention, communicate clearly, and drive action.
If you’re unsure whether your poster is hitting the mark, our professional design team can help turn a good idea into a great result. Get in touch for expert guidance or to discuss your poster design needs, email studio@adworks.scot or call 01292 885777.