Whether you’re creating graphics for print such as brochures or for the website like social media, the application of graphic design is infinite and multipurpose. From white space, font selections, the components of design are multifaceted.

In fact, good design is not reserved for professionals with fancy software or years of training. As such, these class design tips for non-designers are simple, practical, and most importantly, effective.

At Envisager Studio, a San Diego-based creative agency, these fundamentals are part of every project we touch. The beauty of these design tips is that anyone can use them.

Class design tips for non-designers that everyone can use

1. Be original and creative

While there are a myriad of fonts suitable for both web and print, combining too many fonts can make your design look and feel chaotic. Instead, stick to one to two fonts max. The idea is to use a body font that complements your headings. This will not only keep your design looking polished, but also professional.

2. Use high-quality images

Even the best layouts can be ruined by pixelated or blurry images. If stock libraries are not feasible, make sure to use good visuals. But keep in mind that high-quality for web is different than print. Web images recommended resolution is 72dpi, whereas print is 300dpi. Using print quality images for your web projects will significant slow things down, especially if you’re putting them on your website.

3. Choose readable font weight & text size

If you don’t have the space to make 300 variant text larger, then use a thicker weight. While thin fonts look elegant for both print and web projects, if the text is small, it will blend into the background color. In addition, your text should be legible across all devices. Don’t make people quint to read small-sized words or paragraphs.

4. Embrace white space

White space is breathing room rather than wasted space. Not only does it help guide your viewer’s eye, but it also makes your content easier to digest. Cramming images and too much text into a space makes your content look cluttered and disorganized.

5. Adhere to a cohesive color scheme

Certain colors are beautiful together, but you may not need a rainbow of colors. Instead, create a color palette of 3 to 5 colors and use those consistently. Not only does this reinforces visual identity, but it also creates harmony. This is something that Envisager Studio prioritize in branding projects. And serves as classic design tips for non-designers to follow.

6. Structure the reading order

One of the best classic design tips for non-designers is to use visual hierarchy. This will prevent having everything scream for attention at once. To accomplish this, make use of placement, size, and color to guide viewers through your content. For example, supporting details should stay subtle, while headlines should stand out.

7. Snap to guides

Alignment creates structural unity and order. Whether it’s icons, text, or images, everything should line up. This is one of the most basic design concepts that instantly makes your work look more professional and intentional.

8. Rely on simplicity

Because clutter is the enemy of clarity, when it doubt, simplify. Keep it simple by focusing on essential elements and remove anything that doesn’t serve a purpose. Regardless if it’s web or print, clean design always wins.

9. Think outside the box

Don’t use fonts, icons, and other elements that everyone else is using to represent your content. Instead, be creative, design unique visuals to make your content stand out rather than blending in with the crowd. Nowadays, there are a plethora of apps and websites created for that purpose. And of course, you can always rely on Envisager Studio’s design team to create something spectacular and fresh.

10. Look before you leap

Before starting any design project, do your research, and gather details about the project before you begin creating or writing. To ensure a successful outcome, gathering information, materials, and details from the client is crucial.

Why these design tips are important

These classic design tips for non-designers are principles rather than trends. They stand the test of time, whether you’re building a brand or designing a pamphlet. Applying these basic will immediately improve your outcomes.

And if you’re ready to take things further, working with a professional team like Envisager Studio in San Diego can help turn good ideas into exceptional visuals. We specialize in transforming concepts into compelling designs that connect with audiences.

Final thoughts

You don’t have to be a professional designer to create something that looks great. With these design tips, you will have a solid foundation to build on, and confidence to make smarter design decisions. But the real secret is to start simple, stay consistent, and keep refining.

You may also enjoy reading: Creative web design drives conversions

Hazel Burgess

Hazel Burgess
FOUNDER/SEO DIRECTOR

Hazel is the Founder & SEO Director at Envisager Studio, a premier website design agency specializing in WordPress website design, development and internet marketing. In her spare time, she writes about search engine optimization, website design, and internet marketing.