5 Rules for Effective Billboard Design
1- Use simple Bold/Thick Fonts
2- Use contrasting background colors
3- Around 7-10 words are best
4- Use phrases that help your customers find you Online
5 – One form of contact information (you don’t need a website, a phone number, and email address)
ARTWORK SPECIFICATIONS FOR PRINTING/REPRODUCTION
Send your layout in a JPEG or PDF file format – CMYK.
With Corel, Illustrator, Freehand, or any vector layout—always convert all text to curves or outlines.
Use a thin black outline if your layout background is basically white.
No need to include a bleed on any part of your layout.
Scaling Guidelines for Artwork Specifications
A good rule to follow when starting with the correct scale for your design would be the following: Anything 14’ or larger should be built at a 1/2” = 1’ scale.
Sizes 13’ and smaller should be built at a 1”=1’scale.
GUIDELINES
Bulletin 168” x 576” (14’ x 48’) ………………………………. 3.5” x 12”
bleed – A.K.A. “Jumbo”125” x 272” (10’5” x 22’8”) …….12.5” x 27.2”
Photos & Scans
When using a digital camera, use the highest pixel setting possible.
When scanning, scan at 300 DPI with the image at an average size of about 5″x5″. If in doubt, send us the layout and we will check for sharpness.
Use a thin black guideline if your basic layout is a white background.
Grey Outdoor, LLC / Outdoor Advertising Made Easy – Call 1-910-620-3567
What file formats are accepted for billboard artwork submissions?
Accepted formats include JPEG or PDF in CMYK, or vector layouts from Corel, Illustrator, or Freehand with text converted to curves or outlines.
How should text be prepared in vector layouts?
In vector layouts, all text should be converted to curves or outlines to ensure accurate reproduction during printing.
What scale guidelines apply to billboard artwork designs?
For designs 14 feet or larger, use a 1/2 inch = 1 foot scale; smaller sizes should follow a 1 inch = 1 foot scale.
What resolution is recommended for photos and scans?
Photos should be taken at the highest pixel setting, while scans should be 300 DPI at approximately 5x5 inches for clarity.
How can advertisers confirm their artwork meets Grey Outdoor standards?
Advertisers can send layouts directly to Grey Outdoor, where staff will review sharpness and specifications to confirm artwork meets billboard standards.