Make a protest sign that reads from across the street

Frequently asked questions

What makes a protest sign easy to read?

Few words, big letters and strong contrast. Aim for under eight words on the main line; the sign maker sizes the text as large as the board allows, and warns you when your colours are hard to read. Black on white, white on black and black on yellow read best from a distance, and thick condensed fonts like Anton fit more letters across.

What size should a protest sign be?

22 × 28 inches (standard poster board) or A2 is the usual hand-held size: big enough to read, small enough to carry in wind. 18 × 24 inches or A3 is easier for long marches. Larger signs catch the wind, so think about how you'll hold one for a few hours.

Can I put a message on both sides?

Yes. Turn on “Back side” and write a second message; the PDF then has a page for each side. Glue the two prints back to back, or onto both faces of one board, so people behind you can read it too.

How do I print a big sign without a big printer?

Choose “Tiled on printer paper”. The sign is split across A4 or Letter sheets, each labelled like a map (A1, B1, A2…) and overlapping its neighbours by 10 mm. Print at 100% (not “fit to page”), trim the dashed edges, line the sheets up by their labels and tape or glue them onto card. A print shop can print the single full-size PDF instead.

Is anything I write sent anywhere?

No. The sign is drawn in your browser and saved only in this browser's storage. Downloads are made on your device, and the PNG and PDF carry no location or camera details. A share link holds the sign's text after the # in the address, which browsers never send to a server, so only the people you send it to can see it.

Are there rules about signs at protests?

Some places limit sign size or ban wooden or metal sticks on rallies and marches. Check the organisers' guidance and local rules before you go. Cardboard tubes or a sign held in the hands are common alternatives to a stick.