Logo Tips:
As we explain on our Services page, a good logo must work well in a wide range of sizes — from business card size up to outdoor signage. It also must work as a single color, as on a fax, up to full, four-color process printing if needed. Finally, a good logo should communicate — either illustrate your product, service, or business name.

Starting a logo is the most difficult part. Often, clients aren't sure what direction they want to take with their logo. To smooth this process we have some suggestions. First, look around at the logos other businesses are using. They don't need to be in the same industry — just look to see what type of logos appeal to you. Do you lean toward modern, clean looking designs? Old-style or retro looks? Elegant or artistic script?

The next step is to decide what image you want your logo to project. For instance, a financial institute might want to project a stable, strong image while a hair salon might want something more artistic. What image do you want: Professional? Conservative? Clinical? Modern/technical? Friendly? Fun? Family-oriented? etc.

Our own logo provides a good example. We wanted a logo that would be unique, show creativity, and represent our name (and by extension, what we do). It's drawn in a modern stylized manner, using elements from our name. The quill and mouse come straight from the company name while the mouse "tail" becomes an artist's palette symbolizing "studio" as well as the graphic design portion of our services. This clean design works fine in one-color and is simple enough to cleanly come through on a fax, or in the small size needed on a business card.

Here are a few of the logos we've created:

When Quill & Mouse Studios purchased its largest client, one of the first actions was to redesign the logo, making it stronger and more modern. The registration mark in place of the “o” in the name communicates the word “precision” and illustrates the “printing” aspect of the company.

Red Sage Publishing is a publisher of women’s sensual fiction. They wanted a logo that was both feminine and elegant; and could also fit on a book spine. We created a simple monogram using the classic Vivante typeface, set in a deep red.

This client was combining several different automotive shops under a single identity. They wanted something using red, white and blue, and with a modern look but the feel of old fashion service.

This lawyer wanted a logo that communicated strength, stability, tradition and trustworthiness. We used a classic column with a protective “roof” over the name.

This company provides more than just transportation to senior citizens. They also stay with the client on errands and even take them on fun excursions. Their logo needed to appeal to that age group, while communicating the idea of “fun” as well as “transportation.”

The “sunset on the water” gradation in this users group’s logo illustrates their regional location, along the Gulf coast of Florida. The group’s mascot, Sylvester (farther below) was very popular with the members, but they needed something more conservative when dealing with vendors and business professionals.

A software development firm, the company needed a logo that communicated the idea of a “rim star” while having a futuristic and clean look.

A producer of costumes and accessories for those involved in medieval re-enactment groups, this company wanted a period-style logo.

A financial planning firm, they wanted a logo in the color of money and that communicated the idea of growing wealth.

This lawyer was considering several ideas. This example uses a classic monogram.

This veterinary practice logo is an example of representing a company name and service/product with the logo image. It appropriately fits with the practice name.