Design and print
Flyer design and printing
A flyer may be read in seconds, often while someone is walking, waiting or sorting post. It works best when it carries one clear message, such as an event, an opening, an offer or a service, with one obvious thing to do next. Design decides what is read first, how much text survives and whether the call to action stands out. Print decides the size, the paper, whether both sides are used and how many copies are made. Because flyers are often handed out or delivered in bulk, distribution plans and any local rules on where leaflets can be handed out matter as much as the design.
This page covers the message, hierarchy, calls to action, offers and claims, sizes and stock, print-ready files and distribution. Printing can be included in a LetGetGrow quotation, with specifications, quantities, production arrangements and delivery agreed for each project, or files can be prepared for your own printer. Delivery and distribution of printed items can also be arranged through our team or suitable partners.
Illustrative diagram
- Headline — The one message
- Key detail — Date, place or offer
- Call to action — Large and specific
- Contact and terms — Business name and offer conditions
One message
Write the single sentence the flyer must get across, for example 'New Saturday yoga class at the community hall from March'. Everything else supports it. A flyer that lists every service a business offers is hard to take in at a glance; a flyer about one thing is easier to remember and act on.
What people read, in order
| Level | Content |
|---|---|
| First | Headline or image carrying the message |
| Second | Key detail: date, place, offer or benefit |
| Third | Call to action: book, visit, call, scan |
| Fourth | Contact details, terms and business name |
A single call to action
Decide what the reader should do: visit a web page, scan a QR code, call, come along. Make it large and specific. If you use a QR code or a short web address, link to a page about the flyer's subject rather than a home page, so people land on what they expected.
Offers, prices and claims
The CAP Code applies to leaflets and other printed material. Offers should state significant conditions, such as end dates and eligibility, and prices should be accurate. Claims such as 'best in town' or 'cheapest' need evidence or are best avoided. Keep a record of what supports each claim.
Print decisions
Size
- A paper size such as A5 or A6, or DL
- Confirm exact sizes with the printer
Paper
- Weight and coating
- Uncoated if people will write on it
Sides
- Single sided for posters and noticeboards
- Double sided for more detail
Print-ready files
Get the printer's specification before design: trim size, bleed, safe area, colour mode and file format. Keep text away from the trim edge, and check images are high enough resolution for print.
From message to doormat
Message
One sentence and one action.
Output: Brief
Design
Headline, detail, action.
Output: Draft
Artwork
To the printer's specification.
Output: Print-ready file
Proof
Dates, prices, contact.
Output: Approved proof
Print and distribute
Run sized to the plan.
Output: Flyers out
Example: a café's new menu
Illustrative example — not a client case study
Situation: A café wants to tell neighbours about a new breakfast menu.
- The message is set as 'Breakfast served from 7am, Monday to Saturday', with a photo of a real dish.
- A QR code links to the menu page, and an opening-week offer states its end date clearly.
- The café checks with its council about handing out flyers near the station before the run is printed.
What this shows: The flyer carried one clear message and an offer with clear terms. This example is illustrative.
Distribution
Decide how flyers will reach people: handed out, delivered door to door, left in shops or included with orders. Some councils control the handing out of free leaflets in certain areas, so check with your local council before distributing in public places. Plan quantities from the distribution plan, not the other way round.
Knowing whether it worked
A dedicated web page, QR code or offer code shows how many people responded. Without one, it is hard to judge a flyer campaign.
Readability
Use large type for the headline, strong contrast and few fonts. Avoid placing text over busy parts of photos.
Images that carry the message
One strong, genuine image usually works better than several small ones. Show the actual product, place or event where possible, at print resolution. If you use stock images, check the licence covers print and that the image does not suggest something you do not offer.
Questions about flyer design and printing
What makes a good flyer?
One clear message and one obvious action.
Do advertising rules apply to flyers?
Yes; the CAP Code covers leaflets and printed material.
What size should a flyer be?
Often A5, A6 or DL; confirm sizes with your printer.
Can we hand flyers out anywhere?
Check with your local council for public places.
How do we know if it worked?
Use a dedicated page, QR code or offer code.
Who prints the flyers?
Flyer printing can be added to our quotation with size, paper and quantity agreed against your distribution plan, or done by your own printer; distribution can also be arranged through our team or suitable partners.
Sources referenced
Platform features, guidance and rules change. We check the current versions before committing to an approach. This page is general information, not legal advice.
- ASA / CAP: CAP Code: scope of the code (opens in a new tab) — reviewed 2026-11-04
Request a Custom Quote
Ask about Flyer design and printing
Thank you — your enquiry has been sent.
We have received your message and will reply by email. If you need to add anything, email info@letgetgrow.com.