How to Design Flyers & Leaflets

Leaflets and flyers are a great, inexpensive way to advertise a business or event. They can be made right from your home computer with your simple "Microsoft Paint" graphics program. Depending on the number of items needed you can print them directly from your PC's printer or print a single template and take it to a local copy shop.

1.  Boot up your computer and navigate to your "Microsoft Paint" program, which is standard on Windows operating systems.

2.  Open the "Paint" program and click on the "Image" menu. Open the "Attributes" tab and set the page size for 8.5 by 11 inches. Select "OK" other sizes can be set, but it is best to stay with a standard size copy in case you choose to have your flyer or leaflet printed professionally.

3.  Select the "Text" tool. Choose a font for your headline. Add your headline in the largest size that will fit onto your paper. This will vary depending on the style of the font you select. Once you have your headline to your satisfaction click "Save File As" from the main file menu. Name and save your file.

4.  Now reenter the "Text" tool and choose the font and size for the text of your flyer. Use bullet points to grab the reader's attention. Do not use long blocks of text. Keep it to basic information, such as the type of business or event, address and phone or email address for additional information. When you have completed the information click "Save" from the menu.

5.  Add overall color by selecting the "Paint Bucket" Icon from the tools menu. Select your color from the bottom of the screen color box. Colors can be edited by selecting the "Colors" tab from the upper menu. Select "Edit Colors" tab.

6.  To highlight sections of your flyer or leaflet, you can draw a box around sections in the color of your choice by selecting the line tool on the left side.

7.  It is important to remember to always save your work after making changes.

8.  Print out your leaflet or flyer once you are satisfied with the design.