Designing an Instagram Grid for 2025 Using the 2-5 Method

Jacqui Naunton // White Deer
17 Jan 2025

Creating an aesthetically pleasing Instagram grid can be a daunting task for many business owners. With Instagram's continuous evolution and the shift towards more authentic content, it's time to rethink our strategies for 2025. In this guide, I'll walk you through a game-changing method—the 2-5 Method—that helps maintain a professional appearance while allowing your authentic self to shine through, all without consuming loads of your time.

Why Focus on the Instagram Grid?

An engaging Instagram grid is not about aesthetic perfection but about striking a balance between professionalism and authenticity. It’s crucial for establishing a memorable and trustworthy brand presence on the platform. Potential followers, clients, or customers will assess your grid's look when deciding whether to engage with your content.

Step 1: Understanding the 2-5 Method

The 2-5 Method is a simple yet effective strategy for curating your grid. Here’s how it works:

  • Every second post should be a curated one.
  • Every fifth post should also be curated.
  • The curated posts should align with your brand’s colours and style.
  • All other posts should be more organic and authentic, allowing spontaneity while still subtly incorporating your branding.

Step 2: Prepare Your Branding Elements

You need your branding elements—colours, fonts, and style—at the ready. These should resonate throughout both curated and organic posts to create a cohesive vibe in your grid. Consider these elements when planning your posts, even those that are more spontaneous and personal.

Step 3: Crafting Curated Posts

For your 2nd and 5th posts in the grid:

1. Design visually appealing content with Canva or similar tools using your branding elements.

2. Keep it professional and consistent with your business’s image.

3. Download these designs as images to ready them for posting.

Step 4: Embracing Authenticity in Other Posts

The majority of your posts should be less curated, including:

  • Casual photos from daily life or behind-the-scenes moments.
  • Screenshots from Reels or videos.
  • Use editing apps to enhance slightly with your brand’s colours or add minimal text in your branded colours.
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Step 5: Preparing Reel Covers

Reel covers play an important role in your grid:

1. Take a screenshot of a moment from your Reel that fits your brand image.

2. Use Instagram Stories to add some text or graphics to this image, maintaining your brand colours.

3. Save and use this as your cover image when posting the Reel.

Step 6: Regular Review and Adjustments

Periodically review your Instagram grid:

  • Check for colour harmony and rhythm.
  • Ensure your posts—curated and organic—align well with your branding strategy.
  • Keep an eye on how your audience interacts with both types of posts and adjust as needed.

Wrapping Up

The balance between curated and spontaneous content is key in maintaining an engaging yet professional Instagram grid. The 2-5 Method simplifies this process, allowing you to showcase authentic moments while ensuring your brand remains prominent and recognisable. Embrace these strategies as Instagram evolves, and stay ahead in creating a compelling presence on the platform.

Jacqui Naunton // White Deer