A flyer only gets one chance: the first few seconds decide whether someone looks at it or throws it away immediately. A well-designed flyer plays into that, with a clear hierarchy, one clear message and a concrete next step. Below are seven tips that make the difference.
Graphic Design
5 min read
July 9, 2026
Designing a flyer: 7 tips for a flyer that actually gets read
Most flyers end up in the bin within a few seconds. With the right approach, you make sure yours actually gets looked at, read and remembered. Seven concrete tips, based on what genuinely works in practice.
1
Choose one main message
Don't try to say everything on one flyer. Choose the single message that matters most, and let it visually dominate. Additional info is fine, but in a supporting role.
2
Keep the text to a minimum
A flyer is scanned, not read like a letter. Stick to a title, a short one- or two-sentence explanation, and a clear call to action. Anything that can be cut without losing the message, should be cut.
3
Build a clear visual hierarchy
Title large and eye-catching, explanation smaller, call to action prominent again. The order in which the eye moves across the flyer should match the order in which the information matters.
4
Choose the right size for the goal
A5 and A6 are the most commonly used sizes for a classic flyer: compact enough to carry, large enough for a clear message. Need more content, for example a programme or several services? Consider an A4 folder with folding options instead.
5
Make the call to action concrete
"Get in touch" is vague and non-committal. "Call before June 30th for 10% off" or "Scan the QR code for a free trial lesson" gives a concrete, urgent reason to act now instead of setting the flyer aside "for later".
6
Add a QR code
A QR code bridges print and digital: the reader scans and lands straight on your website, offer or booking page, without having to remember or type an address. For a shop, event or promotion, this is often the simplest way to shrink the step from flyer to action.
Tip: always test the QR code before printing the full run. A code that doesn't work costs you the entire campaign.
7
Stay true to your brand identity
Use the same colours, typography and logo as on your other communication. A flyer that doesn't seem to match your website or business card weakens your brand's recognisability instead of strengthening it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Designing flyers: your questions
How much text should be on a flyer?
As little as possible. Stick to one main message, a short explanation and a clear call to action. Too much text means no one reads the flyer in full.
Which paper size should I use for a flyer?
A5 and A6 are the most commonly used sizes: compact enough to hand out easily, large enough for a clear message. A4 is used more often for folders with more content.
What makes a call to action effective?
An effective call to action is concrete and urgent: a date, a discount code, a QR code or a clear next step, rather than a vague invitation.
Should I add a QR code to my flyer?
That's often a good idea: a QR code makes it easy for the reader to click straight through to your website, offer or booking page, without having to remember or type an address.
Can I have my flyer designed by you as well?
Yes. Our graphic design team designs the flyer fully tailored to you, print-ready and matched to the chosen paper and finish.
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