Monograms play a key role in today's visual culture because of high-end fashion houses such as Louis Vuitton, Yves Saint Laurent, Chanel, and Gucci. However, it may look simple to link existing letterforms. So, know the process if you want your final monogram design to seem pro. It can help in creating an elegant branding design solution.

What is a monogram?

A monogram is a single shape formed by joining many letters. A single character isn't a monogram; instead, it refers to a letterform. Likewise, a row of individual initials isn't a monogram, too. Instead, two or more letterforms (or graphemes) must be combined to make one motif.


The LA Dodgers clearly illustrate a monogram since the "L" generates the "A" crossbar. The crossbar of the "A" is drawn with the bowl of the "U" by Under Armour.


When do monograms work best?

The effort your brain uses to analyze and recognize each letterform is an attractive feature of monograms. As the reader "gets the humor," this "aha moment" might provide the sought-after "smile in the head" valued in all kinds of visual communication.


If your brand has a long name, abbreviating it using initials or another type of abbreviation is advised for your logo. For example, since the London Symphony Orchestra is lengthy, shortening it to LSO makes sense. The fact that their famous monogram is like a conductor holding a baton is great.


A handful of high-profile examples may find in Major League Baseball. The New York Yankees, but also local rivals' cap logo. The New York Mets, Los Angeles Dodgers, Colorado Rockies, San Diego Padres, and San Francisco Giants are among the teams in the league.


If a brand isn't as known, a monogram may be insufficient as a way of identity. Yet, designing a monogram to complement a wordmark might be helpful. Even in small locations, such as social media avatars, a long logo may not fit. So Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Gucci each use monograms as an alternative means of identifying their wordmark. And show that it's suitable for physical items.


Take a look at the most common causes. Where will the logo be showcased? It will help to assess whether a monogram is a realistic choice.


The monogram design process-


  1. Writing a brief


A clear brief is a basis for a successful design job. Knowing what you want to reach before starting lets the designer and client love the process. It will help get great outcomes.


Check if the brief answers the following: What does the firm do? Who are the clients? Is there a logo or other visual items that already exist? Where is the monogram likely to apply? What words would you use to outline, and what tone do you want to rouse?


2. Choosing which letters to include


It isn't as easy as it looks! Initials are used to simplify long names. Yet, you don't need to use all of them. E.g., S.J.R.J.C.C.R.S. is usually pointless in "Sarah James and Richard Jones' Classic Car Repairs and Servicing"! On the other hand, "J&J Classics" would be easy to remember, and a "JJ" monogram would be a nice touch.


You may well take the abbreviation from a different angle. E.g., The Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company got known as 3M. And then it became a well-known brand. Think outside the box.


3. Sketching on paper


The computer doesn't come up with creativity. Your brain generates ideas. Always try to draw on paper. No matter how tempting its to go right into your chosen design program.


Also, don't just get lost in your research. Scroll endlessly thru the works of other designers. A monogram is an easy brief. You'll try to combine letterforms then sharpen your pencil to start sketching.


Start with small, simple sketches and edit them later. But, first, sketch out the letterforms you're interested in. And try to make as many versions of each as you can in a given amount of time. Then consider how they may be linked in other ways.


Once you've got many ideas on paper, decide which ones to build into a design solution that fits the brief. Next, before scanning or photographing your sketches for digitization, improve them into larger and more detailed forms.


4. Designing


If some of the sketches are near the final version, they may import into design software to create a vectorized version. Logos need to be in vector format to be scaled to any size without losing quality.


Of course, drawing on paper isn't the only way. The software may use to investigate various routes. For example, try to present fonts with the right attributes for your brand. Also, try out different ways to combine the letterforms in your monogram.


Overlay, interlock, link, and reflect. Parts of the letter also be removed. Only the letter itself should remain visible. Keep extra copies of each version as variations across your artboard.


If you've used a current font, little editing will help make your monogram stand out. Another choice is to use the pen tool or combine geometric shapes to create your letterforms. You might also add enclosing forms or flourishes to help the design stand out.


5. Choosing colors


Before adding color to a logo or symbol, it is best to design it black and white. It means that your design will fit a variety of applications.


Then, reverse the design and assess the white-on-black variant. In this design, negative areas tend to be visually smaller. As a result, make sure they're large enough to keep acceptable balances. And that they do not fade at small scales. Zoom out and have a look! The design may need to be updated.


A distinct inverted version is often created to adjust for the optical differences. It isn't mainly useful when lighter colors show on a darker backdrop, but it's something to consider if your monogram needs it.


If your firm has colors, ensure your monogram looks quite well in this palette. Then, instead, select a color that fits the brand. And create a palette to showcase your design.


6. Putting your monogram to the test


It's essential to ensure that any logo design works in reality. In the most likely use cases, the monogram should be tested. Mockups can help you visualize the finished product. It will also highlight the monogram design to its best.


Evaluating your monogram design

Some factor that determines the design will aid both the designer and the client. Ask such questions out.

  • Is it readable? Check that the marque can be read clearly.
  • Is it suitable? Is it fit for the brand's niche and personality?
  • Is it simple? Monograms exist largely to aid with identity. Don't aim to do too much at once. Simple logos seem to be more likely to become famous and work well in various settings.
  • Is it differs? Avoid copying other designers' work. If you've used a current typeface, make sure it's been altered in some manner to produce a one-of-a-kind design.
  • Is it stable? A skilled designer can ensure that a shape has elegant proportions. And is visually balanced and can describe this to their clients.
  • Is it useful for small sizes? Check this carefully, paying attention to counters and negative space.
  • Is anything wrong with the technical drawing? Check that the lines are sharp and smooth and that the file is sent in vector format.
  • Is it effective in trial applications? Check mockups for accuracy.
  • Does it relate to the brief? The most important question of all! Check the brief to ensure that you've come up with a proper solution.

Ready to begin your monogram design?

Since you've covered all stages and know-how, it's time to start your monogram design project. A monogram might be the elegant identity option you've been looking. It works well in small places, looks great on real objects, and has a classic sense.


Written by Atiya Fairooz (Sabah)