Is a Canva logo ok for your business?
Why designing a logo on canva is ok but there are definitely times when it isn’t.
Just Start. You cannot get better and improve if you didn’t even start.
Designing a logo on Canva can be a great option for those who want a logo but may not be able to hire a graphic designer just yet. Businesses just starting and side hustles are perfect candidates for this. You’re just starting out, you have little overheads and are operating mostly online & you don’t have the profit yet to invest in professional logos and branding. Well, I for one am not going to make you feel bad for being a self starter and creating something for yourself!
If you haven’t heard of Canva, they are an epic brand to study - their mission was to make graphic design accessible and anyone who has been using this platform over the past few years will have seen it grow and evolve - with some similar features to adobe illustrator beginning to make an appearance on the platform. They have definitely achieved their goal and continue to improve and offer new, more accessible graphic design options for those with little to no design background and a great tool for those with design backgrounds for quick and easily shareable visual solutions.
Canva offers both a free and paid version, the paid version has some great features that will make managing your own socials, blogs, websites etc far easier and fun (if that’s your thing).
Canva offers a variety of design elements, such as icons, fonts, and colors, that can be customised to develop your brand's aesthetic. Another advantage is that it is cost-effective, as it offers a free and paid version with a range of features.
Some limitations that you need to be aware of if you’re using Canva for logo design. The templates may not be unique, and your logo may end up looking similar to other businesses using Canva.
Some limitations that you need to be aware of if you’re using Canva for logo design. The templates may not be unique, and your logo may end up looking similar to other businesses using Canva.
A logo created from a template in Canva is not able to be trademarked (UNLESS) you really customise the design - then you MAY be able to register a trademark for exclusive rights however it would be a long process. Even Canva themselves recommend reaching out to a graphic designer for logos and branding that you would like to trademark. read here
Don’t stress too much while you are starting out, whilst a unique stand out logo is essential for some businesses - there is SO much more to branding than just your logo - you’re whole identity helps hold it up - so even if your logo looks like someone else’s - your story won’t be theirs, your brand voice won’t be theirs and so on. If you have a complex design idea fro your logo, it may be difficult to achieve it using Canva's limited design capabilities.
Designing a logo on Canva can be a great option for those who want a simple and cost-effective design solution to just get started, so go for it!
When you should hire a graphic designer for your business logo.
A logo forms a part of any business's brand and marketing strategy. Your logo is often the first thing people see when they encounter your business, but there is much more to messaging, positioning and brand recognition than just the logo and visual components of your brand. A logo can make a lasting impression on potential customers, but impact is made with the whole brand experience and customer journey as well.
If you have a very specific niche, a luxury product, luxury service or high end offering - then no, a Canva logo is definitely where you should be looking .
A graphic designer can help to create a logo and potentially brand strategy where all visual elements of your brand are communicated clearly and accurately represents your business and appeals to your target audience.
If you have no idea where to start yourself, then finding someone who understands how to use color, typography, and other design elements to create a logo is the way to go.
A designer will also ensure that your logo is scalable and can be used across a variety of applications, from business cards and letterheads to websites and social media profiles. This is an important part of your marketing - blurred images or pixilated signage may not create the memorable brand you’re aiming for.
In addition to their design skills, a graphic designer can also provide valuable insights and guidance throughout the logo design process. They can work with you to understand your business's goals and target audience, and will create a logo that reflects your brand's values and personality. Ultimately, hiring a graphic designer to create your business logo can help you establish a strong brand identity and stand out from the competition. If you have invested heavily in product development, a physical space or other start up costs, then your logo should be left to the professionals.
All in all, don’t be afraid to start with a Canva logo, build your other messaging through delving into your brand identity and creating a memorable brand with impact. When you are ready and have solid ideas about how you want to evolve, then you can invest in logo, brand design and strategy.
I would never discourage someone from chasing their dreams, purely because they wanted to use a logo designed in Canva to start their business. Tenacity and courage will get you where you want to be!
If you are ready to talk logos, branding and a customised brand - get in touch hello@withbaxter.co
