6 Must Have Vehicle Graphic Design Tips

Vehicle wrap design is a lot different than other kinds of design. What works on paper in a 2D image won’t necessarily look the same on a vehicle with complex curves, draws and shape. Designing a three-dimensional graphic takes planning, precision and attention to detail. We’ve gathered a few tips that can help you make sure your design will work before you get too attached to it.

1.     Don’t Trust Your Template Blindly

While there are templates for most vehicles, they won’t always include all the information your designer needs. Sometimes there will be a few different versions of the same vehicle. For example, a specific model truck will have a few different versions, like a long or short bed or crew cabs. There are instances where taking actual measurements of the vehicle will be the only surefire way to ensure that everything scales accurately.

2.     Consider the Design From Different Angles

People will see your vehicle from different angles, which poses a number of important questions including these:

• Do you want to repeat important information like your phone number or URL so it can be seen from any angle?

• Will the placement of the photo you’re using look funny if it spans from the rear of the vehicle to the side?

• What will it look like with the windows rolled down or a door open?

• Will text fall on door seams or the gas cap in odd places?

3.     Remember People Will See It In Motion

Unless you’re parked or stuck in traffic, people will either see your wrap while they’re in motion or while you’re in motion.

This means they’re not going to be giving you their full attention. So a really busy design is going to be hard to decipher. Small text is going to be too hard to read. Simplicity is often the key to an effective wrap advertisement. Focus on the placement of a single call to action and your contact info. Then see where you can fit imagery.

4.     High-Res Images Only

What looks good on your computer screen may actually look pixelated or blurry when it’s blown up to scale on your vehicle. Use vector graphics whenever possible. It may be best to hire a designer who specializes in vehicle wraps to help you make sure your text and images will stay crisp at any size.

5.     Take Different Surface Types Into Account

Adhesive vinyl won’t adhere to certain surfaces (such as plastic or rubber bumpers). Some areas have local ordinances that prohibit covering parts or all areas of vehicle glass. Be sure to take them into account.

6.     Remember That Designers Have Different Specialties

If you don’t have access to a designer that specializes in 3D wrap design, you should probably hire one with experience. Even talented designers from advertising agencies and freelance web designers can have difficulty with this kind of design since it’s not their area of expertise.

Lennon Franz is our vehicle graphic design expert and print department manager. He’s got years of experience designing graphics specifically for vehicles (of all types!). We love it when our wraps get attention for our customers, and it’s really Lennon’s graphic work that makes it happen.

If you want a professional looking wrap that effectively advertises your business, look no further than Team Acme! You can get a quote now or call us at (702) 566-8326 with any questions you might have.