A brochure becomes a powerful sales tool when you match the template to your audience and objective, organize content with clear hierarchy, use design elements and color sparingly, and follow print-ready specifications (CMYK, 300 DPI, bleed). Use templates for speed and low cost; hire a designer for brand customization or complex print needs.
Why the right template matters
A brochure is more than paper and ink - it's a focused sales tool. The right template helps you grab attention, communicate key facts quickly, and guide readers toward action.Start with audience and objective
Define who you're talking to and what you want them to do. Is the brochure for trade-show leads, retail shoppers, or a service audience? Choose layouts, tone, and images that match that audience and the desired call to action (CTA).Prioritize clear information hierarchy
Organize content so the most important points stand out. Use a short, punchy headline, a brief subhead that supports it, and concise bullets for features or benefits. Visual hierarchy - size, weight, and placement of text - directs reading order and improves comprehension.Design elements that help, not distract
Use boxes, borders, or color blocks sparingly to highlight CTAs or key specs. Maintain consistent typography and avoid more than two complementary type families. Keep essential facts (price, features, contact info) prominent and legible.Color, contrast, and brand consistency
Limit your palette to two or three colors tied to your brand. For printed pieces, design in CMYK and ensure good contrast for readability. Online PDFs can use RGB, but preserve contrast for accessibility.Margins, safe zones, and print-ready specs
Leave adequate margins and a safe zone so nothing gets cut off. Add bleed (typically 1/8 inch) if the design reaches the edge. For print, supply high-resolution images (300 DPI) and request a proof from your printer.Templates vs. hiring a designer
Templates speed production and lower cost. Platforms like Canva, Adobe Express, Microsoft Word templates, Envato Elements, and Creative Market offer adaptable, print-ready layouts. Professional designers help when you need brand customization, layout expertise, or complex print setups. Use a designer if you lack time, need unique creative direction, or must meet tight print specifications.Practical checklist before printing or publishing
- Confirm target audience and CTA.
- Verify hierarchy: headline, subhead, bullets, CTA.
- Check color mode (CMYK for print) and image resolution (300 DPI).
- Ensure adequate margins, safe zones, and bleed.
- Test legibility: font sizes, contrast, and spacing.
- Get a printed or PDF proof before full run.
FAQs about Brochure Template
How do I choose the right brochure template?
Start with your audience and objective. Pick a layout that supports a clear headline, concise bullets, and a visible call to action. Choose colors and imagery that match your brand and audience.
Can I use online templates and still get a professional result?
Yes. Platforms like Canva and Adobe Express offer print-ready layouts. Verify image resolution, color mode (CMYK for printers), and download high-resolution files or PDFs for printing.
When should I hire a designer instead of using a template?
Hire a professional when you need a unique brand design, complex layouts, expert typography, or help preparing files to meet a printer's specifications.
What are the basic print specifications I should check?
Confirm CMYK color mode, supply images at 300 DPI, include appropriate bleed (commonly 1/8 inch), and leave safe margins so important content isn't trimmed.
How many colors and fonts should I use?
Limit your palette to two or three brand colors and use one or two complementary type families to maintain clarity and consistency.