Political Yard Sign Design Ideas-

Yard signs springing up on lawns all over the country prior to an election is as predictable as spring . There must be a reason for this phenomena: it's simple — yard signs work!

In order to get the most for your money take a few extra moments to consider the design of the sign before you start getting quotes. There are six items you must decide on.

The Who
The What
Extras
Slogans
Symbols
Disclaimer

The Who - The length of your name must be considered. POE and SCHWAINIGER present different yard sign design considerations. Sign printers can accommodate both - a PORTRAIT layout for short names, and a LANDSCAPE layout for long names. Both orientations present the same print area at no penalty in cost or weatherability.

If your name is common like SMITH, it may be well to include your first name JOHN or JOAN in your design to distinguish and avoid confusion with other Smiths (office holders, relatives, spouses, rogues, etc) who may or may not be running. First names need not be in the same font (letter) size as the surname as this may detract from the surname.

The What - The office position you intend to hold after the election is important. Make certain it shows as a recognizable position, and as it would appear on the ballot. As you are only putting signs in your district, it can be advantageous to eliminate extraneous references and specific numbers (Example: simply CONGRESS vs. 16th UNITED STATES CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT). Use abbreviations sparingly - preferable not at all. Font size for the office should be subordinate to surname font size.

Extras -If you are being re-elected, inclusion of RE-ELECT can be a plus as it distinguishes you as the incumbent. Words like VOTE and FOR and dates, NOV 8TH, are used with caution as they are not necessary and can detract from your principal mission - presenting The Who and The What.

Slogan - - A slogan is great for large format signs or signs placed at stop lights, but most viewers of normal sign yard signs are driving by at 30 miles per hour, or faster, with very little time to read your name and your slogan.

Symbols -- In this age of icons, who can not recognize the appropriateness and symbolism of a school house (School Board) or a five pointed star (Sheriff), a balance scale (Judge), a donkey (Democrat), an elephant (Republican), a statue of liberty (Libertarian) or flags or stars and stripes. These can help separate your yards from the 'sea of political signs' out there.

Disclaimer - Last, but most important, don't forget your "Authorized and Paid for..." or what ever the exact wording and size and position is as dictated by your local and/or state election boards. It is the candidate's responsibility to find out the regulations and make this known to the sign printer.