Police car graphics have come a long way over the years. They have evolved from simple decals on the doors to full-body wraps that not only display the department’s name and logo but also serve as an effective tool for community outreach and marketing. In this guide, we will take a look at the art of police car wraps and what goes into creating a professional, eye-catching design.
Designing the Concept: Choosing Colors, Fonts, and Images
The first step in creating a police car wrap is to decide on the overall look and feel of the design. This is where the visual identity of the department is established and the tone of the wrap is set. It is important to choose colors, fonts, and images that accurately represent the department and convey the desired message.
When choosing colors, it is important to consider the department’s existing color scheme and to ensure that the colors used in the wrap complement it. For example, if the department’s logo and uniforms are blue and gold, it may be a good idea to use these colors in the wrap as well. The colors used in the wrap should also be easily readable and recognizable from a distance, particularly for emergency vehicles, which need to be easily identified in any situation.
Fonts are another important element to consider when creating a police car wrap. The font should be clear and easy to read, and it should complement the overall design. For example, a bold, sans-serif font may work well for a modern, sleek design, while a script font may be more appropriate for a more traditional design. The font should also be easily legible at a distance, so that important information, such as the department’s name and phone number, can be easily read by anyone who needs it.
Images are also an important part of the design process. This can include logos, symbols, and other graphics that help to reinforce the department’s identity and convey its message. For example, the department’s badge or shield can be used to reinforce its official status, while a silhouette of a police officer can help to convey a sense of protection and security. When choosing images, it is important to ensure that they are high-quality and that they complement the overall design.
Working with a Professional Graphic Designer
Once the design concept has been established, it is time to start the actual design process. This usually involves working with a professional graphic designer who has experience creating vehicle graphics. The designer will take the design concept and turn it into a detailed design that can be used to create the actual wrap. This design should include the department’s name, logo, and any other important information that needs to be included, such as the department’s mission statement or a motto.
Optimizing the Design for the Police Car
The design should also be optimized for the specific type of police car it will be applied to. This includes considering the shape and size of the vehicle, as well as the location of any lights, cameras, or other equipment that might interfere with the design. The designer will also need to take into account the type of vinyl that will be used for the wrap, as some types of vinyl are more suitable for certain types of vehicles or conditions.
Printing the Design: Creating a High-Quality Digital Print
Once the design is complete, it is time to start the printing process. This involves creating a high-quality digital print of the design, which is then applied to the police car. The process of applying the wrap is an art in itself and requires a skilled installer who can ensure that the wrap is applied correctly and without any bubbles or wrinkles. It is important to choose an installer who has experience working with police car graphics, as the process can be different than that of a regular car wrap.
Adding the Finishing Touch: Additional Graphics and Elements
When the wrap has been applied to the police car, the final step is to add any additional graphics or elements that were not included in the initial design. This is the stage where small details can really make a big impact on the overall look and feel of the wrap.
Decals are a popular choice for adding extra detail to police car wraps. These can be used to display additional information, such as the department’s phone number, website, or social media handles. Decals can also be used to add logos or symbols, such as a state flag or a symbol representing a special unit within the department.
Striping is another popular element that can be added to police car wraps. This can include stripes along the sides of the car, around the roof, or even down the hood or trunk. Striping can be used to create a more uniform look and to break up large areas of color. It can also be used to add extra detail, such as a thin line of reflective material that will make the car more visible in low-light conditions.
Other graphics that can be used as a finishing touch to a police car wrap include badges, shields, or stars. These can be added to the doors, hood, or roof to add an extra layer of detail and to help reinforce the image of the police department.
It is important to choose these additional elements carefully, as they can have a significant impact on the overall look and feel of the wrap. For example, too many decals or graphics can make the wrap look cluttered, while the wrong colors or materials can detract from the overall design. It is best to work with a professional graphic designer who has experience creating police car graphics and who can help you choose the right elements for your wrap.
The End Result: A High-Quality, Eye-Catching Wrap
In conclusion, police car graphics are an effective tool for community outreach and marketing. With a professional design and a skilled installer, the end result can be a high-quality, eye-catching wrap that accurately represents the department and its mission. If you are looking to have a police car wrap created, be sure to work with Graphic Designs International, a company that specializes in creating high-quality, professional graphics for all types of vehicles. With their experience and expertise, they can help you create a wrap that will serve as a visual representation of your department for years to come.
