Creating a vector logo allows you to have a logo that is scalable to any size without losing quality. This makes vector logos ideal for printing on various mediums like business cards, banners, packaging, etc. Vector logos also look crisp and clean on websites and digital displays. Follow this step-by-step guide to learn how to design your own professional vector logo.
Why Choose a Vector Logo?
Here are some key benefits of using a vector logo:
- Scalability – Vector logos can be scaled to any size, small or large, without losing quality. Bitmap image formats like JPG and PNG lose quality when enlarged.
- Editability – It’s easy to edit vector shapes and colors as needed. Bitmap images become pixelated when edited.
- Clean lines – Vector uses mathematical formulas to draw lines and curves resulting in smooth clean edges at any size.
- Small file size – Vector files are much smaller in file size compared to high resolution bitmap images.
- Print readiness – Vector art prints beautifully at any size. No need to maintain multiple resolutions for different applications.
- Animation friendly – Animating a vector logo is easier than animating a bitmap logo.
For these reasons, most professional logos are created using vector graphics. The most popular vector formats are AI (Adobe Illustrator), EPS (Encapsulated PostScript), and SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics).
Step 1: Determine the Type of Logo You Need
First decide on the style and complexity of the logo you want to create. Some options are:
- Lettermark – Uses initials or acronym of company name
- Wordmark – Entire company name spelled out
- Combination mark – Combines icon and text
- Emblem – Intricate icon design with details
- Pictorial mark – Simple recognizable icon representing brand
- Abstract mark – Unique design with shapes and geometry
Consider the message you want to convey with your logo and choose a style accordingly. Simple logos are more versatile, while intricate emblems convey tradition and heritage.
Step 2: Research Your Industry and Competition
Now conduct research to inspire your own logo design:
- Look at logos of top brands in your industry
- Take note of effective visual styles and themes
- Don’t outright copy another logo – use the research for inspiration
- Observe how your competitors differentiate with their logos
- Determine what styles and themes are overdone
- Find potential gaps or opportunities to stand out
This research will help you come up with a unique logo that resonates with your target audience but still fits within industry norms. Avoid extremes like overly complicated or overly simple generic logos.
Step 3: Make a Mood Board for Inspiration
Gather visual inspirations for your logo design:
- Collect brand logo examples you like
- Find images conveying the right mood, theme or message
- Grab font samples that match your preferred style
- Look for ideal colors that fit your brand personality
- Search for related icons, shapes and graphic elements
- Save all these references in a mood board for easy access
A mood board helps crystallize an artistic direction for your logo that aligns with your brand identity. Use it for guidance when you start sketching concepts.
Step 4: Sketch Your Logo Concepts
Use pencil and paper to brainstorm logo ideas:
- Start with wordmarks – sketch your brand name in various fonts
- Try different ways of combining your brand name with icons or symbols
- Draw rough icon concepts representing your brand identity
- Collaborate with others and build on each other’s ideas
- Don’t self-censor at this stage – let the creativity flow!
- Aim for at least 10 initial sketches to choose from
Sketching gives you freedom to experiment visually and make mistakes. Refine the most promising ideas in next steps.
Step 5: Create Logo Refinements Digitally
Take your best sketches to a vector design program like Adobe Illustrator:
- Vectorize your sketches retaining the visual appeal
- Experiment with typography, color schemes and arrangements
- Tweak shapes and line weights pixel perfectly
- Design at actual size – not too intricate up close or too simple from afar
- Aim for simplicity but with character – remove unnecessary elements
- Refine 3-5 options showing promise to present for feedback
Creating vector refinements allows you to add precision and visual polish. Present these to stakeholders for discussion.
Step 6: Gather Feedback and Finalize Design
Talk to your stakeholders, team and target customers to choose the best option:
- Present 3-5 vector logo refinements you designed
- Solicit feedback from all relevant stakeholders
- Ask which logo conveys the brand story and values
- Inquire which logo stands out visually in a crowded field
- Request suggestions to further improve the chosen logo
- Refine logo with feedback and finalize the design
Stakeholder alignment ensures your logo represents your brand and resonates with customers. Make refinements based on feedback before finalizing.
Step 7: Prepare Your Logo Files
Export your vector logo in all needed formats:
- Original vector file (AI, EPS) to retain editability
- High-res raster PNG with transparent background
- JPEG and GIF formats for digital use
- Smaller PNGs for website icons and mobile
- Favicon for browser tabs
- Formats needed for merchandise and social media
Having your logo ready in the right file formats ensures you can use it anywhere needed, both digitally and in print.
Step 8: Trademark Your Logo
Consider registering a trademark for your new logo:
- Look up logo trademark process for your country
- Conduct a trademark search for conflicting logos
- File required application and paperwork
- Work with a legal professional for guidance
- Register trademark to protect logo from infringement
Trademarking prevents competitors from using your logo design. This step is optional but recommended for most businesses.
Step 9: Create Brand Guidelines
Document guidelines on using the logo properly:
- Minimum size – prevent misuse when too small
- Exclusion zone – required empty space around logo
- Color standards – logos should look consistent
- Clearspace – define proximity to other elements
- Incorrect usage – examples of what to avoid
- File formats – when and how to use the right file
Brand guidelines ensure your logo is used appropriately by any third parties. This preserves brand consistency.
Conclusion
Designing your own unique vector logo takes research, creativity and persistence. Follow the design process step-by-step to develop a logo that connects with your audience and strengthens your brand identity. The vector format allows your logo to be used freely across all print and digital media. With a professional logo that resonates with customers, you can build trust and recognition for your company.