Logo Design Red Flags: How to Spot Bad Designers

Protecting yourself from poor outcomes

Not all logo designers are equal. Here are warning signs that suggest you should look elsewhere.

No relevant portfolio

If they can't show logos similar to what you need, they may not be equipped to deliver it.

Prices that seem too good

A £20 logo involves either templates, AI generation, or exploitation. Quality custom work has costs.

Vague about process

Professional designers can explain their process clearly. Vagueness suggests they're making it up.

Guaranteed satisfaction without explanation

"Unlimited revisions" often means the designer doesn't know when to stop.

No questions about your business

A designer who starts designing without understanding your business will produce generic work.

Concepts that ignore the brief

If your feedback isn't reflected in revisions, the designer isn't listening.

Excessive revisions without progress

Round after round without getting closer suggests the designer is lost.

Communication goes silent

Disappearing mid-project is a major red flag.

Defensive about feedback

Professional designers accept feedback gracefully. Defensiveness is a warning sign.

Requesting full payment before any work

A deposit is reasonable. Full payment upfront with no established relationship is risky.

Missing file formats

Vectors, PNGs, different colour versions—these are standard. Missing formats suggest incomplete work.

Low-resolution files only

This might indicate the work isn't original or the designer doesn't understand professional requirements.

No usage rights clarity

You should own your logo outright. Any ambiguity here is concerning.

If you're stuck with a bad designer: