As my passion for logo design ignited, so did my ever-growing collection of logo design books. Over the years, I’ve acquired and delved into the pages of hundreds of books encompassing logo design, branding, graphic design, and business. If, like me, you’re on a mission to enhance and master your logo design skills, I’ve compiled a curated list, categorising the finest books from my extensive collection to aid you on your educational journey.

1. Logo Design Love: A Guide to Creating Iconic Brand Identities

A compelling masterpiece penned by the renowned David Airey. This book stands as a beacon among the literature dedicated to logo design, offering an insightful journey into the intricacies of the creative process. David Airey skilfully dissects the fundamentals, providing a comprehensive breakdown that serves as a solid foundation for both novices and seasoned designers alike.

Delve into the pages of ‘Logo Design Love’ to uncover a treasure trove of best practices, each chapter brimming with invaluable insights that demystify the art of crafting memorable logos. Airey’s expertise shines through as he seamlessly weaves together theory and practical wisdom, making this book an indispensable resource for anyone seeking to master the nuances of effective logo design. The inclusion of compelling case studies elevates the narrative, offering a behind-the-scenes look at successful designs and imparting practical tips to empower designers in their quest for excellence.

For those aspiring to elevate their design prowess, ‘Logo Design Love’ extends a helping hand with its thought-provoking case studies. Each study serves as a roadmap for designers eager to transcend conventional boundaries, providing a roadmap to elevate their craft. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a budding designer, this book is an essential addition to your creative arsenal, guiding you through the art and science of crafting logos that leave a lasting impression.

Available here.

2. Designing Brand Identity: An Essential Guide for the Whole Branding Team

In “Designing Brand Identity,” Wheeler not only delves into the technical aspects but also skillfully articulates the strategies necessary to translate the essence of any brand into a compelling logo. Aspiring and seasoned designers alike will find practical insights that demystify the creative process, fostering a deeper understanding of how to visually communicate a brand’s identity effectively.

Furthermore, this edition keeps pace with the dynamic landscape of branding by incorporating the latest insights into social media marketing and branding trends. By unraveling the recognition journeys of successful brands and their logos, Wheeler provides readers with a contemporary perspective on what it takes to create logos that stand out in today’s competitive market. Immerse yourself in the world of brand identity with this edition, and gain the knowledge needed to create logos that leave a lasting impact in the ever-evolving design industry.

Available here.

3. Logo Modernism

“Logo Modernism” by Jens Müller stands as an all-encompassing exploration that transcends industry boundaries, delving into realms such as retail giants, architecture, geometry, typography, art, and media outfits. This comprehensive approach makes it an invaluable resource for artists and designers, offering a rich tapestry of design inspiration and insights across diverse sectors. Whether you’re seeking to create logos for retail empires, architectural marvels, or media enterprises, this book serves as a treasure trove of visual and conceptual stimulation.

A true delight for aspiring artists and designers, “Logo Modernism” takes readers on a captivating journey through the branding evolution from 1940 to 1980. Müller’s meticulous curation provides a fascinating contrast between the retro and modern identities of corporate giants, offering a unique perspective on the transformative power of design through the decades. By immersing oneself in the pages of this book, one gains not only an appreciation for the visual aesthetics but also a deeper understanding of the strategic decisions that shape iconic logos. “Logo Modernism” emerges as an essential guide, seamlessly blending historical context, visual allure, and design principles to inspire and educate those passionate about the art and craft of logo design.

Available here.

4. Identity Designed: The Definitive Guide to Visual Branding

Discover the pinnacle of logo design expertise with ‘Identity Designed’ by David Airey, unequivocally recognised as one of the finest books in its genre. Airey’s work offers a profound exploration into the art and science of crafting effective logos, providing invaluable insights into their pivotal role in ensuring a brand’s survival in the competitive landscape. This book stands as an indispensable guide, equipping designers with the knowledge and skills needed to create logos that not only captivate visually but also contribute significantly to a brand’s enduring success.

In ‘Identity Designed,’ Airey goes beyond the ordinary by offering a unique glimpse into the inner workings of renowned design studios worldwide. This behind-the-scenes perspective allows readers to absorb inspiration and learn from the best in the industry, elevating their own design practices. Furthermore, the book seamlessly weaves together the historical evolution of branding practices, bridging the gap between earlier methods and contemporary approaches. By navigating through the rich tapestry of branding history, readers gain a holistic understanding of the evolution of design principles, positioning ‘Identity Designed’ as an invaluable resource for those seeking to not only master logo design but also appreciate its profound impact on the broader field of branding.

Available here.

5. Logotype

Evamy’s expert exploration of Logotype as a dynamic duo—consisting of the Symbol and Logotype—marks a pivotal shift in the design landscape, offering a game-changing approach for those aspiring to ascend to champion designer status.

In ‘Logotype,’ Evamy has curated a wealth of knowledge, providing practitioners with everything essential for their creative endeavours. The focus on typography serves as a cornerstone, enabling designers to delve into the art of crafting logos that not only visually captivate but also communicate a brand’s essence with precision. Whether you’re part of a dynamic creative agency or an individual designer charting your own path, ‘Logotype’ proves to be an invaluable companion, arming you with the insights and strategies needed to navigate the intricate world of logo design successfully. Elevate your design prowess and set yourself on the path to becoming a champion designer with the transformative guidance found within the pages of ‘Logotype.

Available here.

Blog | Damir Matas - Digital Product Designer

6. The Logo Design Idea Book

In their collaborative masterpiece, Steven Heller and Gail Anderson have meticulously assembled the essential components that constitute a stellar logo in this captivating book. Delving into the world of iconic brands, the authors illuminate the transformative role logos play in breathing life into a brand, endowing it with a distinctive personality. Filled with compelling examples, the book serves as a rich tapestry, weaving together narratives of renowned brands and the visual stories behind their logos.

This creative exploration extends beyond the visual aesthetics, unraveling the profound ways in which a logo communicates a brand’s character. Whether it’s wit, humour, or seriousness, Heller and Anderson demystify the art of logo design, illustrating how these visual elements serve as powerful conduits for expressing a brand’s multifaceted persona. Through insightful analysis and vivid examples, the book becomes a guide for designers and enthusiasts alike, offering a deep dive into the symbiotic relationship between logos and brand identity. Immerse yourself in this thought-provoking journey, where every page unveils the secrets of how logos become the vibrant expressions of a brand’s essence..

Available here.

7. Logo

Unlock the gateway to visual and graphic design with ease through Michael Evamy’s ‘Logo,’ a beginner-friendly guide that has earned its status as a best-seller for a compelling reason. Tailored for those taking their first steps into the dynamic world of design, this book proves to be an indispensable companion, offering a straightforward and accessible approach to grasping the essentials of logo creation. With a keen focus on contemporary designers, ‘Logo’ presents a comprehensive overview, showcasing nearly 1600 logo designs that serve as a wellspring of inspiration for novices and seasoned designers alike.

More than just a guide, ‘Logo’ has emerged as a go-to reference for designers seeking insights and ideas. Michael Evamy’s curated collection not only educates but sparks creativity by exposing readers to a diverse array of design concepts. This book’s popularity stems from its ability to distill complex design principles into digestible insights, making it a valuable resource for those embarking on their design journey. Whether you’re a beginner seeking foundational knowledge or a seasoned designer in search of inspiration, ‘Logo’ stands as a testament to its universal appeal and enduring significance in the ever-evolving landscape of visual and graphic design.

Available here.

8. Draplin Design Co.: Pretty Much Everything

Draplin’s magnetic presence has elevated the book’s status, with his global tour captivating audiences from London to various corners of the world. His passion for sharing insights extends beyond the pages of the book, as evidenced by his engaging talks and even a Skillshare class dedicated to unraveling the mysteries of design.

Draplin’s journey, as depicted in the book, offers a rare glimpse into the inner workings of a designer’s life, providing an immersive experience for those eager to comprehend the intricacies of logo design. His magnetic charisma and creative prowess have made him a source of inspiration for many, myself included. The desire to meet him in person and engage in a dialogue about logo design is a testament to the profound impact he has had on aspiring designers.

Though the specific contents of the “Draft and Design Code Book” remain tantalisingly beyond reach, the echoes of its brilliance resonate through the design community. The prospect of delving deep into Draplin’s work through this book promises a journey that transcends the ordinary, making it a must-have for anyone seeking to unravel the secrets of a designer’s craft and gain a profound understanding of the language spoken in the world of logo design. Here’s to the hope that one day, the opportunity arises to connect with Aaron Draplin and delve into the creative realms of logo design together.

Available here.

9.Los Logos

While it may not delve deeply into the theoretical aspects of logo design, this book excels as a source of inspiration. Its pages are adorned with a plethora of logo type designs, each accompanied by insights into the minds behind the creations. As a massive compilation of the best logos of its time, ‘Lost Logos’ offers an invaluable opportunity to explore and understand the thought processes that shape each design choice.

For logo designers and graphic enthusiasts, this book proves to be an indispensable asset. It not only serves as a visual guide to contemporary design trends but also acts as a memory bank, capturing the evolving landscape of logo design over the years. Whether you’re seeking inspiration or aiming to grasp the nuances of modern logo design, ‘Lost Logos’ is a must-have addition to your collection, promising to enrich your understanding and elevate your creative endeavours in the realm of vintage-type logos.

Available here.

10. Made by James

James Martin’s “Made by James: The Honest Guide to Creativity and Logo” promises an enlightening journey through the intricate realms of an artist’s creative process. In this compelling book, Martin serves as a guide, unraveling the mysteries behind the conception and execution of artistic endeavours. The narrative not only immerses readers in the intricacies of creative thinking but also provides access to a vast collection of logo examples.

This book stands out by offering detailed insights into how each design contributes to the crucial aspect of building client relationships. By delving into the nuances of client interaction and project execution, Martin imparts valuable lessons on the symbiotic relationship between design and client satisfaction.

For those eager to expand their understanding of innovative design, “Made by James” emerges as a comprehensive resource.

Available here.

Blog | Damir Matas - Digital Product Designer