5 Mistakes to Avoid When Designing Your Business Sign

Your business sign is one of the most important investments you can make. It’s more than just a name on a wall — it’s a first impression, a branding tool, and a 24/7 advertisement that works for you day and night.

But too often, businesses make design mistakes that can cost them visibility, customers, and credibility. To make sure your sign stands out for the right reasons, here are the 5 biggest mistakes to avoid when designing your business sign.

1. Using Hard-to-Read Fonts

Fancy or overly decorative fonts might look creative, but if people can’t read your sign quickly, they’ll move on. The best signs use clean, bold fonts that are easy to read from both near and far.

2. Poor Color Choices

Colors set the tone for your brand, but poor combinations can hurt visibility. For example, light text on a light background or colors that clash can make your sign difficult to read. High contrast (like dark text on a light background) works best.

3. Overcrowding with Too Much Text

A sign isn’t meant to tell your whole story — it’s meant to grab attention. Avoid stuffing your sign with too many words or details. Stick to your business name, logo, and maybe a tagline. Less is more.

4. Ignoring Size and Placement

Even the best-designed sign won’t work if it’s too small or poorly placed. Consider how people will view your sign — from across the street, driving by, or walking past. A professional sign company can help size and position it correctly for maximum impact.

5. Skipping Professional Help

DIY signs might save money upfront, but they often look unpolished and wear out quickly. A professionally designed and installed sign not only lasts longer but also shows customers you care about quality.

Make Your Sign a Success

Avoiding these common mistakes can make the difference between a sign that blends into the background and one that attracts new customers every day.

At Johnston Signs, we help Bay Area businesses design and install signs that are bold, professional, and built to last. From storefronts to vehicle wraps, we know what works.

📞 Contact us today for a free quote and let’s create a business sign that truly stands out.