How to Design Eye-Catching Posters: Tips from OnTime Print Experts

Want to create a poster that really stands out?

Whether it’s for an event, promotion, or announcement, designing a poster that grabs attention can make all the difference.

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Simplicity is Key: Focus on Clear, Concise Messaging

A great poster communicates its message quickly. You only have a few seconds to capture someone’s attention, so your message needs to be short and direct.
Start with a bold, attention-grabbing headline that tells people what the poster is about in just a few words. Stick to the essentials: key details like the event name, date, time, and location. Avoid cramming too much text on the poster – keep it clean and easy to read.

Pro tip: Use fonts that are simple and readable from a distance. Your headline should stand out, so choose a larger font size for it, while the smaller details can use a slightly smaller font.

Choose Colours that Pop (But Don’t Overdo It)

Colour plays a huge role in making a poster eye-catching.

Bright, bold colours can draw people’s attention from across the room, but it’s important to use them wisely. Stick to two or three main colours that complement each other and align with your brand.

Using too many colours can make the poster look busy and overwhelming.

When selecting colours, think about contrast. A light background with dark text (or vice versa) ensures that your message is easy to read.

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High-Quality Images Make a Big Difference

Visuals are what make your poster pop. A strong image can say more than words, but it has to be the right image.

Use high-resolution photos or graphics that relate to your message. Blurry or pixelated images can ruin the professional look you’re aiming for. If you don’t have a high-quality photo, consider using a bold graphic or illustration instead.

Smart Layout and Design: Make the Most of Your Space

Design isn’t just about how your poster looks; it’s about how everything is arranged. A well-thought-out layout makes a poster easy to read and visually appealing.

Give each element—text, images, and logos—enough space to breathe. Crowding everything into one area makes the poster feel cluttered, and people are less likely to read it.

Using negative space (the empty space around design elements) helps guide the viewer’s eye to what’s most important. Make sure your headline is at the top and your key information (like dates or calls to action) is easily visible.

Make Your Call to Action Stand Out

Every poster should have a clear call to action.

What do you want people to do after seeing your poster? Whether it’s visiting a website, attending an event, or following your social media, make sure the next step is easy to follow.

Use clear, simple language, and don’t bury your call to action in a sea of text. Place it somewhere prominent and easy to spot.

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Ready to Design Your Perfect Poster?

At OnTime Print, we’ve been perfecting the art of printing for over 20 years.

Our team of experts is here to help you bring your vision to life, whether you’re promoting an event, advertising your business, or sharing a special announcement.

From helping you choose the perfect design to ensuring a high-quality finish, we’re here every step of the way.

Visit us today to get started on your next eye-catching poster. Let’s create something amazing together!