3 DIY Design Tips That Make Your Small Business Stand Out

If you create your own social media graphics, flyers or marketing materials, you already know how time-consuming and frustrating it can be to get the design just right. Whether you're designing for print or online, your visuals play a huge role in how your business is perceived.

Here are three simple design tips for small businesses that are easy to apply and backed by solid design principles. They can help your materials stand out, be more effective, and represent your business professionally.

1. Use High Contrast: Light Backgrounds with Dark Text (or Vice Versa)

Using high contrast between your background and text makes your message easier to read. For example, black text on a white background, or white text on a solid dark colour, provides clarity and reduces strain on the eyes. This is especially important when people are scrolling quickly on their phones.

The reason this works so well comes down to how our brains process visual information. High contrast allows the eye to distinguish text instantly, allowing your audience to grasp your message quickly and effortlessly.

Low contrast combinations, like grey text on a pale background, may look stylish but often cause people to skip over your content because it’s too hard to read at a glance.

2. Avoid Placing Text Over Busy Photos or Patterns

Overlaying text on top of detailed or busy photos can be distracting. The eye doesn’t know where to focus, and your message gets lost. While a striking photo might grab attention, if the text becomes hard to read, it defeats the purpose.

This is because the brain is trying to process two competing elements: the image and the words. If the background is too complex, it reduces the effectiveness of both.

If you want to use a photo, consider placing your text in a clear space or using a solid colour block or translucent overlay behind the text. This keeps things clean and readable without losing visual appeal.

3. Choose Large, Clear Fonts That Are Easy to Read on Mobile

A large percentage of your audience will be viewing your materials on a mobile screen, where small, delicate fonts quickly become unreadable. The goal is to make your text legible without requiring effort or zooming in.

Sans-serif fonts like Arial, Lato or Montserrat are ideal for mobile and print because they are clear and simple. Avoid script or overly decorative fonts for anything longer than a headline.

In design, clarity always wins. If someone can read and understand your message in just a few seconds, they are far more likely to engage with it.

Professional Design Helps You Build Trust

Whether you're a small business owner, tradesperson, freelancer or service provider, the quality and clarity of your marketing materials matter. People make quick decisions based on first impressions, and your visuals play a key role in that process.

If you’re too busy to create consistent, polished designs for your business, I can help. I work with small business owners across Hampshire and beyond to support them with visual design, organisation and admin services that save time and make you look professional.

Need a hand with your designs or day-to-day admin?

Get in touch today to find out how I can support you and your business. From social media graphics and flyers to branding and organisation, I’ll help you present your business at its best, online and offline.