Handwriting

Handwriting ads use authentic-looking handwritten text or graphic design to deliver a message that feels personal, casual, and relatable. Popular examples include sticky note ads or scrawled notes on lined paper, and might read as a personal reminder or note-to-self.

These are often considered ugly ads. Ads that grab attention by looking different than the common polished and professional look of most ads. They are particularly effective for brands aiming to convey simplicity, authenticity, or a grassroots feel. Handwriting ads are best great for communicating offers, or quick, impactful messages.

Difficulty
Easy
Awareness Level
Most Aware, Product Aware, Solution Aware
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Hooks/Headline Examples

  • Handwritten notes are a design execution. Combine with messaging from other frameworks like power headlines, offer ads, listical ads, myth-busting ads, etc.

Tips & Recommendations

  1. Try an execution as a simple as writing your offer on a post-it note, and sticking it on your product.
  2. Add doodles, arrows, or underlines to add to the unpolished feel of the ad.
  3. These are quick to make, so create several versions so you can test and learn your way to the top performing message

Why It Works

The informal, unpolished look of handwritten ads stands out in polished social media feeds and grabs attention. It also often aligns with a  casual, conversational tone mirrors that mimics real-life communication, fostering a stronger sense of connection with the audience.

And because of how easy it is to produce, you can make a bunch quickly giving you more at-bats at finding a high-performing message.

What to Avoid

While handwritten ads should feel casual, too much messiness can make them hard to read or look unprofessional.

And ensure the handwritten style fits your brand’s tone and the message being conveyed. A premium brand might lose credibility with an overly casual execution.

Handwriting ads work best with short, snappy messages. Avoid trying to fit too much information into a small space.