Outgrowing Canva: Why Custom Design Matters

"Custom branding doesn't just look better, it works harder for you, setting you apart in ways a template never will."

In a world where standing out is everything, good design isn’t just nice to have, it’s a business advantage.  

Canva is a handy tool. It’s accessible, quick and full of pre-built templates, but when you’re trying to build a brand with real staying power, custom design becomes essential.  

At Fat Baby Marketing, we hear it all the time: “We started with Canva... but now we’ve outgrown it and need more than plug-and-play templates.” And that’s a good thing. 

We sat down with Vara, one of our contributing designers, to dig into what makes custom design a game-changer, and where Canva falls short. 

1. templates are inherently generic

“Custom design is fully tailored to the client. It’s built with your brand’s personality, goals, and audience in mind. Canva templates, while convenient, are inherently generic. They often lead to visuals that feel impersonal or overly familiar.” 

Templates may be quick to use, but they’re also quick to forget and they often make your brand feel like one in a million—in the wrong way. Custom branding creates distinction, not duplication. It’s what brings your unique story to life visually and helps your business stand out in a sea of sameness. 

2. canva's limitations show up fast as your brand grows 

Let’s be real: Canva is a great starting point, but it’s not built for custom output.  

“Canva is a helpful tool, but it’s limited in both functionality and output. The editing capabilities are basic, and you’re restricted to a predefined set of layouts, fonts, and file types.” 

This means you'll probably run into limitations when it comes to things like: 

• Print-ready formatting 

• Scalability for different platforms 

• Large-scale or high-resolution design needs 

• Brand consistency across evolving campaigns 

It’s hard to scale your brand or maintain a cohesive identity when the platform can’t keep up with your needs. If your brand is growing, your design tools need to grow with you.  

3. working with a designer is about strategy, not just style

At Fat Baby, we believe great branding starts with great collaboration. Brand design isn’t just about creating “nice graphics.” It’s a strategic process rooted in psychology, research, and storytelling: 

“It’s a collaborative process that begins with understanding who you are, what you do, how you want to be perceived, and where you’re headed,” our designer explains. 

“We go through discovery sessions, research, mood boards, color studies, and typography exploration. Together, we refine the brand until it feels like a true extension of your identity.” 

This intentional process is where real differentiation is born and ensures your brand isn’t just beautiful, it’s effective. 

4. visual storytelling is deeper than dragging and dropping

A common turning point for our clients? Realizing their brand needs more! 

“When a brand starts needing more than one-size-fits-all graphics, when they want to tell a richer story... they’ve outgrown templates.” 

Canva makes design feel easy, but custom design makes it feel true because at its core it’s about connection: 

“It’s part psychology, part storytelling, and part intuition,” says our designer. “I consider your audience, your values, and your voice—then use elements like color, shape, typography, and texture to evoke the right emotions and tone.” 

Custom design allows your brand to pivot, grow, and evolve with confidence. 

5. branding is more than a logo

If you think branding stops at a logo, you’re missing out on the real magic.  

“Branding is the way your audience experiences your business. A strong brand is a living, evolving expression of your mission and values,”  Vara emphasizes. “The best brands treat design as an ongoing conversation, not a one-time deliverable.” 

Every touchpoint matters! From your website and social posts to your invoices and email signature. Great design ensures that every part of your business feels like you. 

6. the ROI of custom design is real 

We get it! Budget matters. And Canva can be a great solution for one-off flyers or internal docs. But if you’re building something lasting, the investment in custom design pays off tenfold. 

“I completely understand the time and budget pressures that small business owners face. But if you’re serious about growing your business, it’s worth investing in something that reflects who you truly are and where you're going.” 

It’s the difference between a placeholder and a powerhouse. And it’s about unlocking your full potential. 

ready to go beyond the template?

If you’ve ever felt like your Canva visuals aren’t quite doing your story justice, that might be your sign to level up your branding. Custom, intentionally-crafted designs can help you elevate your brand identity. When your visuals align with your mission, your brand speaks with a lasting impression.