Crests are sometimes used as a stand-in for the coat of arms as a whole, especially if the coat of arms is too intricate. [3] X Research source

You can also use colors found in nature if you are using a natural symbol. For instance, if you are drawing an eagle for your crest, you can use brown for the wings.

Pay attention to symmetry. Though not all crests are symmetrical, many have symmetrical elements. For instance, you may have an eagle with it’s wings outstretched, and it’s head turned. In that case, the turned head makes it not symmetrical, but the wings and other parts of the body should be symmetrical. [7] X Research source

Don’t forget the crest for the helm. The crest can be another symbol that represents your family.

Traditional colors for a shield are exclusively red, blue, purple, green, and black, with silver and gold as metals. [11] X Research source However, traditional shields also allow for “natural” colors to create certain symbols.

You can also create supporters, which go on either side of the shield. Generally, these are two animals that help create balance within the design.