Show Your Support
What you believe, on your sleeve
One of the best ways to participate in your government is to spread information. In the age of smartphones and internet searches, information is everywhere. Sometimes all it takes is a catchy slogan or symbol to get people to notice or find out more about a cause you care about. The more people show their support, the more others want to find out what all the noise is about. The best part is, there’s a way to show your support for everyone. If you’re looking for a conversation starter, you might choose a button or a t-shirt. If you want to get to a large number of people, go for a yard sign or window poster.
You should, of course, be careful about how and where you show your support. Some apartments have rules against window posters, and some HOAs have restrictions on yard signs. It may not be appropriate to bring political messages into your job. You should also try to keep any posters or signs on your own property, or check your city’s regulations before posting signs on public property.
How do I get started?
There are lots of ways to show your support, and the way you do it is totally up to you.
If you’re making your own swag, here are a few steps to making it great:
One of the best ways to participate in your government is to spread information. In the age of smartphones and internet searches, information is everywhere. Sometimes all it takes is a catchy slogan or symbol to get people to notice or find out more about a cause you care about. The more people show their support, the more others want to find out what all the noise is about. The best part is, there’s a way to show your support for everyone. If you’re looking for a conversation starter, you might choose a button or a t-shirt. If you want to get to a large number of people, go for a yard sign or window poster.
You should, of course, be careful about how and where you show your support. Some apartments have rules against window posters, and some HOAs have restrictions on yard signs. It may not be appropriate to bring political messages into your job. You should also try to keep any posters or signs on your own property, or check your city’s regulations before posting signs on public property.
How do I get started?
There are lots of ways to show your support, and the way you do it is totally up to you.
- If you’re a speed demon, many candidates and sponsors will provide you with some--a yard sign, button, or t-shirt (some will even do it for free!). Visit their website and contact them if you’re not sure.
- If you’re a tech guru, there are plenty of sites where you can design your own hats, t-shirts, yard signs, buttons, and other swag--you can even order extras for your friends or organizations you’re a part of.
- If you’re a master craftsman, you can make your swag yourself! Most craft stores carry blank signs, posters, t-shirts, ball caps, and buttons. Load up with whatever you like and the materials to make it your own.
If you’re making your own swag, here are a few steps to making it great:
- Pick a size and shape! You want your message big enough to be readable, but not so big that it is intimidating. Use a stencil to help you figure out how much space your words will take up.
- Choose your colors! Pick bold, noticeable colors (or just your favorites). Let your creativity shine, but make sure that your message is still readable.
- Not sure if the colors work? Use an online tool to check your color contrast
- Start with a Hook! Use engaging text that will make people want to learn more. Try for something memorable and searchable, so that people can find your cause later. Consider using any existing slogans for the candidate or cause. Use curse words at your own risk.
- Images speak louder than words! You can draw a symbol or use an existing symbol, or you can use a photo that supports your message. Choose an image that people will remember later.
- Get to work! Make sure to not go overboard with decorating it--simplicity is beauty. Okay, maybe a little more glitter, but only if you really want to.