Multi-Color Logos and Letters Made Simple: Which Method is Right for You?
When it comes to bringing your multi-color signage to life, there are a few different ways we can do it, and the best method depends on your design, the material you choose, and your budget. Let's break down the differences between painting multiple pieces in one color vs. painting a single piece with multiple colors.
Option 1: Multi-Piece Logos - One Color Per Piece
One of the most common ways to produce a multi-color logo is by creating individual pieces, each painted in a single, solid color. These pieces are then installed like puzzle pieces during installation.
Benefits of Multi-Piece Painting:
- Cost-effective for designs with multiple colors
- Efficient production with faster turnaround times
- No need for complex painting processes
- Ideal for flat cut materials (acrylic, aluminum, stainless steel)
Consider this: It's important to note that this method may result in visible seams or small gaps between the pieces and is not idea for designs that include gradients or fine color details.
Option 2: Single-Piece Logos - Multiple Colors (Masking and Painting Process)
If you prefer a seamless, single-piece logo but still want multiple colors, we offer a process called masking and painting. This approach offers a clean, seamless appearance that works well for both indoor and outdoor applications.
Available on These Materials:
- Formed Plastic
- Flat Cut Acrylic
- Flat Cut Metal (aluminum & stainless steel only)
Benefits of Single-Piece Multi-Color Logos:
- Clean, seamless appearance
- Durable finish for indoor and outdoor use
Consider This: Masking and Painting is more labor-intensive than painting individual pieces and is best suited for logos with two or fewer colors on a single piece. It is not compatible with gradients or extremely fine color details and typically involves a higher cost for logos that require three or more colors.
Option 3: Colorlast: A Better Option for Complex Designs
If your logo includes gradients, fine detail, or three or more colors in a single area, our Colorlast technology might be a better fit.
What is Colorlast?
Colorlast is a digital printing process that allows us to apply vibrant, full-color imagery directly onto signage materials. It's especially effective for detailed logos and intricate designs.
Benefits of Colorlast:
- Allows full-color prints, including gradients
- Perfect for fine details and small lettering
- Often more affordable than masking and painting for complex designs
Consider This: If your brand requires exact PMS color matching across the entire design, traditional full-paint methods may be a better choice and Colorlast is available only on flat cut and plaque materials, so it's not suited for formed plastic or other dimensional products.
Summary: Which Option is Best for You?
Method | Best For | Not Ideal For | Available Materials |
Multi-Piece (One Color Each) | Simple, bold logos with solid colors | Designs needing seamless or gradient finish | Flat Cut Acrylic, Flat Cut Aluminum, Flat Cut Stainless Steel |
Single-Piece (Masking & Painting) | Clean, seamless logos with 2 colors | Gradients, small color details, 3+ colors | Formed Plastic, Flat Cut Acrylic, Flat Cut Metal |
Colorlast | Complex logos with gradients or detail | Solid color logos where paint is preferred | Flat Cut Metal, Flat Cut Acrylic, Precision Plaques |
Still Unsure? We're Here to Help.
Every project is different. Reach out and let us help you choose the method that meets your design goals, timeline, budget, and your clients' needs.