6 Types of Custom Banners and How to Choose the Right One

3D Billboards

These billboards incorporate 3D effects to recreate the depth of a real-world object. Oftentimes, they use holograms or dynamic animations, which can be viewed from multiple angles and seem to pop out of the screen.

However, some 3D billboards use tangible displays, such as sculptures and other props to create depth.

1. Cat 3D LED Billboard

Located at Shinjuku Station in Tokyo, Japan, this 155-square-foot 3D curved billboard has become a popular tourist destination. This cutting-edge technology allows people to see 3D effects without special glasses and in broad daylight, too.

Although the giant calico cat is a crowd favorite, the billboard also shows other popular anime characters, including those from *Dragon Ball*, *One Piece*, and *Pokémon*.

The billboard’s content is updated frequently, from ads promoting local festivals and concerts to global brands such as Nike and Louis Vuitton.

2. Netflix’s Army of the Dead 3D Billboard

This 3D billboard was installed in central London in 2021 to promote *Army of The Dead*, a zombie-themed film starring Dave Bautista and Ella Purnell.

The billboard featured a 3D zombie tiger that appeared to step out from the ruins of post-apocalyptic Las Vegas. Renowned visual effects artist Marcus Taormina and his team tracked the movements of tigers at Big Cat Rescue to create animations that were both chilling and captivating.

3. Coca-Cola Robotic LED Billboard

Considered as the world’s first 3D robotic billboard, this Coca-Cola sign in Times Square, Manhattan, New York City is made of 1,960 moving and static LED cubes that produce this captivating three-dimensional coordinated effect.

The electro-kinetic sculpture-cum-billboard measured 210.22 m² (2262 ft² 117 in²) and could detect inclement weather conditions and temperature changes.

4. Infinity LED Wall by Nexen and D’strict

South Korean tire manufacturer Nexen commissioned D’strict to create a 30-meter wide and 7-meter high LED video wall that combined visual arts and technological innovations. The billboard was installed in the company’s main headquarters in Seoul, and it showed dynamic content, including a captivating waterfall and a multicolored tornado that transformed into different figures.

5. HBO’s House of the Dragon 3D Billboard

Although Times Square is peppered with 3D billboards, the one promoting HBO’s popular TV series *House of the Dragon* easily became a crowd favorite.

The billboard used naked-eye 3D technology, allowing viewers to enjoy dynamic animations, including a fire-breathing dragon that looked like it would fly out of the screen.

Interactive Billboards

Interactive billboards allow viewers to interact with the content through various technologies, including touchscreens, motion sensors, augmented reality (AR), and QR codes, just to name a few.

Although increased audience engagement is one of the goals of interactive billboards, they also allow marketers to collect data about how people interact with the content. This way, they can improve marketing campaigns in the future.

6. The Economist’s “Lightbulb” Billboard

Installed in 2005 by the renowned advertising agency BBDO, this minimalistic yet thought-provoking billboard featured a giant lightbulb on a bold red background.

The creative media design company used electronic motion sensors that caused the light bulb to illuminate as people walked in front of the interactive billboard. The design did not include any images or texts except *The Economist* logo.

7. British Airways Digital Billboard

In 2013, British Airways installed two digital billboards in London featuring a child who pointed his finger every time an airplane flew across the sky.

The signs were equipped with a surveillance system designed to track actual planes, ensuring that the video synchronized with them. The billboards also displayed the flight number and origin of a British Airways plane flying across the sky.

8. Netflix’s Daredevil Billboard

In 2016, Netflix installed an outdoor billboard at Toronto’s Yonge-Dundas Square to promote *Daredevil* and encouraged fans on social media to “Join The Fight” by tweeting with the hashtag #DAREDEVIL, #PUNISHER, or #ELEKTRA, depending on their favorite character.

The character who received the most mentions would then “attack” the other characters, causing their images to have bruises, cuts, and bullet holes. The billboards were updated every 48 hours to illustrate the “damage.”

9. Reebok’s Speed Test Campaign

As part of their campaign to promote *ZPump 2.0* shoes, Reebok installed an interactive billboard in Stockholm designed to challenge pedestrians to run as fast as they could.

The interactive billboard used movement-tracking technology combined with a speed camera, and Reebok gave away new trainers to those who could beat the set time, which was 10.5 miles per hour.

10. KitKat’s Massage-Giving Billboard

KitKat’s famous slogan *“Have a break”* was the main inspiration for the massage-giving billboards installed at bus shelters in Bogota, Colombia.

When people leaned against these interactive signs, they activated built-in motors that produced pleasant vibrations. To make it even more interactive, local commuters could find these massage kiosks by typing in words like *“tired”* and *“stressed”* on Google Maps.

Artistic Billboards

These billboards focus on displaying creative and visually stunning content, instead of solely promoting products and services. As a result, they often feature unique and imaginative designs, intricate patterns, and vibrant colors.

11. Panasonic’s Creative Nose Hair Trimmer Billboard

In this billboard, Panasonic incorporated the cityscape, specifically the dangling cables and wires that were made to look like unsightly nose hair.

Designed by ad agency Saatchi & Saatchi Indonesia, the billboards promoted the Panasonic nose hair trimmer, especially its safety cutting feature.

12. BIC Razor’s Grass-Cutting Billboard

This creative outdoor sign for BIC razors proves that using ordinary landscape combined with a bit of creativity can deliver interesting and memorable visual effects.

The actual billboard only served as a backdrop for the giant-sized razor surrounded by freshly cut grass that resembled the appearance of a clean shave.

13. McDonald’s and Burger King’s Billboard Rivalry

This McDonald’s billboard used a humorous approach against Burger King, one of its biggest competitors.

The lighthearted rivalry and playful tone generated a lot of attention from customers. Although it was a risky move to mention one’s business rival, this billboard campaign was a success because it generated a lot of buzz without being offensive.

14. IKEA Christmas Campaign

Home furnishings retailer IKEA has always been known for its quirky and creative oversized billboards.

This holiday-themed outdoor sign used furniture pieces arranged in a way that spelled out the word *“JOY.”* The props created a nice 3D effect while featuring the company’s products.

15. Formula Toothpaste Billboard

Designed by Ogilvy and Mather, *“The Bite”* billboard successfully delivered a clear and simple message: The *Formula Tooth Care* brand can help strengthen teeth.

Advocacy-Related Billboards

These billboards are primarily designed to raise awareness, encourage support, or inspire action toward issues such as human rights, mental health, equality, hunger, climate change, animal welfare, and education.

Advocacy-focused billboards rarely promote products or services, or if they do, they typically do it in a discreet manner to avoid putting viewers off.

16. Women’s Aid Interactive Billboard

Launched by Women’s Aid, the *Look At Me* interactive billboard showed a close-up image of a woman’s face covered in bruises.

Interestingly, when people stopped by to look at the model’s face, the swelling and marks would slowly fade away. By contrast, the bruised face would reappear if no one was looking at the billboard.

This interactive outdoor sign was equipped with facial recognition technology to detect when people stopped and looked at the screen.

The message of this billboard is loud and clear: We can help victims of domestic abuse by not turning a blind eye.

17. Dogs Trust Billboard Covered With Plush Toys

To help raise awareness of the growing problem of dog smuggling trade, the dog welfare organization *Dogs Trust* installed a giant billboard covered with 750 plush toy puppies, which passersby could take home for free.

Once all the plushies were gone, a message warning the public about the dog smuggling trade could be seen.

18. Road Safety Billboard for NZ Transport Agency

Some people think they can forego the use of seatbelts when they sit in the backseat.

Unfortunately, this misconception caused a lot of serious injuries and deaths that could have been prevented if only people were better educated about seatbelt safety.

To demonstrate the danger of not wearing safety belts in the backseat and in turn encourage people to wear them regardless of where they are seated inside the car, the *New Zealand Transport Agency* installed a billboard featuring a rear seat that was attached to a giant slingshot.

19. Wave of Waste Billboard

To raise awareness about marine pollution, beer brand *Corona* commissioned a billboard called the *“Wave of Waste”* that incorporated actual plastic waste collected in the UK.

Australian actor *Chris Hemsworth* was also featured in the billboard, surfing on the towering wave of plastic waste.

20. Road Safety Billboard for the Colorado State Patrol

The *Colorado State Patrol* used a chilling and visually striking billboard to demonstrate the danger of tailgating.

Featuring an image of a car colliding with the back end of a truck, the pleated and torn sign really made a lasting impact on the viewers’ minds.

20 Creative Billboards That You Need to See

Restaurants

Some restaurants use indoor banners to display their menus, specials, and other promotions.

Banner Size: 3′ x 6′

Ideal Uses: Indoor Restaurant Banners

The smaller but sleeker vertical banners can be hung outside to attract passersby.

Banner Size: 3′ x 5′

Ideal Uses: Outdoor Restaurant Banners

The slimmer and taller restaurant banners are commonly displayed outside for directions.

Banner Size: 2′ x 6′

Ideal Uses: Directional Banner for Restaurants

Standard Banner Sizes Explained: How to Pick the Perfect Size for Your Needs

The Heart of Needs Beyond Medicine

Hope comes in many forms, and for cancer patients facing financial strain during treatment, Needs Beyond Medicine’s Relief Program provides a vital lifeline. With a one-time grant of up to $575 per year, they help cover living expenses so patients can focus on what matters most: recovery.

Needs Beyond Medicine partnered with all major cancer centers and clinics in Utah, ensuring those in need have access to their program.

Beyond financial support, they work tirelessly with universities and community organizations to educate people about the early signs and symptoms of cancer.

Finding an Ally in Print

With print marketing, nonprofits, volunteer groups, and foundations can raise awareness and spread their message more effectively. 

“Printed materials play a vital role in our outreach and awareness efforts. While digital communication is prevalent, printed materials ensure that critical information is readily available for those who may not have immediate online access,” said Phil Brown, Needs Beyond Medicine’s founder & CEO.

When it comes to raising awareness and educating their audience, Needs Beyond Medicine trusts the power of brochures — a beacon of hope that fits in your hand. To this day, brochures continue to serve as trusted messengers, finding their way into cancer centers, clinics, and outreach events where they connect patients with life-changing support.

In addition to brochures, they count table throws, banners, flyers, and invitations as print product must-haves especially for events and information campaigns.

“For public events, branded materials like table throws enhance visibility and recognition. Additionally, banners are particularly valuable at our fundraisers and community events, providing a strong visual presence. These materials collectively help us engage audiences, share our mission, and increase awareness of our service.”

From Referral to Reliance

The best collaborations often start with a referral, just like how Needs Beyond Medicine discovered Signs.com.

A trusted partner of Needs Beyond Medicine recommended Signs.com’s sister company, and when Signs.com became the primary provider, they continued to rely on Signs.com’s services.

“The quick turnaround, especially with products coming from the Salt Lake City facility, has been invaluable for our time-sensitive projects.  Thanks to the professionalism and high-quality work of Signs.com, we look forward to continuing our partnership for future printing needs and annual events.”

Much like their print products and passion for the community, Needs Beyond Medicine stands as a beacon of hope during challenging times. From brochures to banners, and everything in between, high quality print products help reach a wider audience and garner support.

For your signs and banner needs, visit Signs.com and let us help you create a positive impact through print.

Print With Purpose: Meet Needs Beyond Medicine and How They Foster Hope

Table of Contents 

1. Introduction
2. What are the different ways to advertise using my car? 
3. What are the benefits of car decals?
4. What are the common uses of car decals?
5. Key Takeaways
6. Conclusion

Car advertising is one of the most innovative and effective ways to promote your business 24/7. It turns your vehicle into a mobile billboard, so you can easily reach a wide audience, whether you’re running errands, driving to work, or simply parked outside. While car advertising can come in many forms, car decals always stand out more due to their benefits. Let’s explore what sets car decals apart in this article by Signs.com.

What are the different ways to advertise using my car? 

Before diving into the benefits of car decals, let’s explore the different methods of car advertising. These are: 

• Car decals – Car decals are semi-permanent vinyl graphics that are placed on any part of the vehicle. These are very versatile and affordable and are best used for long-term promotions.  

• Car magnets – Car magnets are temporary and removable signs that stick to the car’s surface. These are often used for short-term campaigns or if the car is used for both personal and business purposes. 

• Vehicle wraps – Vehicle wraps are vinyl graphics that cover the entire surface of the car. These offer maximum visibility and are more suitable for large vehicle fleets. 

Not sure which type matches your business needs? Check out our comparison article on Vehicle Wraps vs. Vehicle Decals and Car Magnets vs. Car Decals. 

What are the benefits of using car decals? 

Now that you know the different types of car advertising, let’s find out why car decals are the best choice for car advertising.

1. They offer lots of impressions. Unlike traditional forms of advertising, car decals can generate high impressions while you’re on the go. Car decals are eye-catching and easy to spot, so your ad is immediately exposed to a diverse audience, whether you’re stuck in traffic, on busy highways, in a parking lot, or in front of a store. 
2. They are inexpensive. Car decals are a one-time expense. They don’t have any recurring fees and are perfect for small businesses or startups with a limited budget. 
3. They have tax benefits. Advertising your business using car decals can make you eligible for tax benefits. Any amount you spend that goes into placing an advertisement can be written off as a business expense. To make the most of these perks, make sure to keep track of your receipts and expenses and consult an accountant. For more information, read our Tax Benefits of Using Car Decals for Your Business article. 
4. They are easy to install and remove. Car decals do not require a lot of effort to install and remove. If you ever need to apply them to a car’s surface, update, or replace them, you can do it yourself without worrying about damaging the paint or you can seek help from a professional. Check out our article on How to Install Car Decals Like a Champ and How to Remove Car Decals Without Damaging the Paint for comprehensive guides. 
5. They are durable and long-lasting. Car decals are designed for long-term use, compared to car magnets that only last for a short time. They’re semi-permanent and made of durable, UV-, water- and weather-resistant material, making them the ideal choice if you want to promote your business for several years.
6. They give your car a professional appearance. Car decals add a polished and professional look to your vehicle. This grabs the attention of your audience, helps build credibility, and implements consistent branding if you’re using multiple vehicles. 
7. They are customizable. Car decals have various shapes, sizes, and designs, which make them customizable to match any business. You can apply them to your car, truck, or van, use minimalist text, go for bold designs, or add QR codes to link your social media page.

What are the Common Uses of Car Decals? 

Car advertising is not just limited to businesses — they can also be used across various industries and creative purposes. This makes car decals a great option for ads, as they are incredibly versatile and can be used in various ways. Here are some of the common uses of car decals: 

Brand Advertising 

Car decals are often used for brand promotions. Whether you’re a small business, a startup, or a large company, car decals are an excellent way for you to gain more visibility and advertise your services and business hours. 

Event Promotion 

Looking for more attendees or supporters for your event? Car decals are perfect for promoting various events, campaigns, or fundraisers. Make sure to include locations, ticket information, and event dates in your ads to encourage more people to come to your event. 

Seasonal and Holiday Marketing 

Take advantage of the holiday rush and use car decals to advertise special deals, promos, and discounts. Add festive themes in your design to capture the attention of your audience. 

Personalization and Custom Projects 

Car decals are not just great for promotions — they’re also suitable for personal expression. You can use it for showcasing your interests or spreading awareness about advocacies you stand for. 

Fleet Branding 

If you’re handling multiple vehicles like firetrucks, ambulances, police vehicles, or buses, car decals can help make your fleet recognizable through consistent branding. You can do this by ensuring the same logo, contact information, and design is applied to all vehicles so that they’re easy to identify from a distance.  

Car decals offer endless possibilities for businesses, individuals, and organizations alike. Find out more when you read our piece What Industries Use Car Decals as an Advertising Tool?

Key Takeaways 

• Car advertising is a cost-effective way of promoting your brand. 

• Car decals offer long-term benefits compared to other forms of car advertising. 

• Car decals are incredibly versatile and used across various industries. 

• Decals are easy to install and remove and can be customized to match your needs.
  

Conclusion 

Car decals are one of the most efficient tools that you can use for car advertising. They enhance brand visibility, are easy to use and customize, and won’t break the bank. Whether you’re looking to bring in more customers to your business, promote an event, or announce seasonal promos, car decals are a reliable choice for conveying your message and making your ad stand out.  

Ready to create your custom car decals and get started? Check out these Tips From Design Experts at Signs.com to make the most out of your car decals today. 

Related Articles

• The Benefits of Car Advertising
• What’s the Difference Between Car Magnets and Car Decals?
• How to Use Car Decals As Ads?
• Custom Car Decals: Tips from Design Experts at Signs.com
• Shift Your Marketing Into Gear: Full Vehicle Wraps vs. Vehicle Decals
• Revamp Your Ride: How to Install a Car Decal Like a Champ

The Benefits of Car Advertising

Standard Banner Sizes by Location