How You Can Create Your Own Logo: The Steps to Follow

1- Decide what values your product or business represent

Before you start anything, it's important to take a moment to analyze your business world or product. When you create a logo, you create something unique that represents your values, not those of your competitors. Therefore, make a list of all the benefits and values associated to your business. Write everything down that comes to mind, you never know what elements are going to stand out and allow you to create a unique logo.

2- Take note of the logos you like

Once your list is made, look for inspiration. Of course, it's not about copying an existing logo, it's about figuring out which styles you like and why. Browse the web, there are several resources to help you  create your logo. The FreeLogoDesign website also has links to resources that can help you create your logo. We like to look at what Pinterest has to offer. Keep in mind, however, that your business or product should always remain your primary source of inspiration. 

3- Choose the type of logo 

Did you know that there are different types of logos? We suggest you not pick just one, but simply choose a few types of logos you prefer before you start designing. There is:

The monogram logo
The monogram logo is an acronym of a company's name. Examples of well-known monogram logos are NASA, IKEA and General Electric.

The signature logo
The signature logo is a fairly simple logo. It is composed only of the company name. It is therefore important to choose a font that makes it stand out. Examples of signature logos are Google, Netflix and Coca-Cola.

The symbol logo
The symbol logo is a logo of only an icon, there is no company name. This type of logo is mainly used by well-known brands. Examples of symbol logos include Apple, Toyota and Snapchat.

The combined logo
The combined logo, as the name suggests, is a logo composed of both the company's name and an icon. This type of logo is among the most common. Examples of well-known combined logos are Pepsi, Adidas, and Reddit.

The badge logo
The badge logo is used by companies that wish to highlight their seriousness and longevity. The coat of arms displays the credible side to the logos that opt for this type. UPS, Harvard and Cadillac use badge-type logos.

4- Choose a colour palette and fonts

After choosing the type of logo you like, it's time to think about colors and fonts. First, it's important to choose these graphics carefully, as they can help your logo give off an energy. Did you know that colors have meaning? For example, purple is associated with luxury, while orange is often entertainment. 

Then take a look at different fonts for your logo. We know it's hard to choose because there are so many! Start by deciding if you want a font with or without serifs, then do some testing. Like colours, the chosen font must reflect who you are.

5- Start drawing – try different possibilities

With all the items in hand: your list of values, logo type, examples you like, colours and fonts, now it's time to get to work. Take out a pencil and piece of paper and let your imagination run wild. If you don't know where to start, why not try the FreeLogoDesign editor? We have several basic templates that you can customize.
 

6- Design different versions 

Once you have your first sketch, we advise you design different versions of your logo. The reason is simple: you need to use your logo everywhere. For example, if you decide to create a combined logo, you should have a version of your logo that is only the icon for your Favicon. Have fun and try different ways to present your creation.

7- Write it all down in a brand guide

Finally, when you're satisfied with your new logo, write down, in a brand guide, everything you used to create it. It should include your values, inspirations, as well as the colours and fonts you chose. You can also add a guide that explains which variation of your logo to use depending on the medium.

To conclude, let us remind you of the criteria of a good logo: memorable, adaptable, simple, timeless and distinctive. Memorable, because it must stand out from the crowd and represent you well. Adaptable, because you need to be able to use it everywhere easily, both on print and on the web. Simple, because the trends at the moment are minimalism. Timeless, because a logo that lasts over time often equals a stronger brand image. Finally, distinctive, because it is your logo, and it must represent you 100%!