How to Create a Two-Name Ambigram (for Couples & Friends)

Published on November 6, 2025 by The Ambigram Team

One of the most requested ambigram styles is the "two-name" or "two-word" design. This is an ambigram that reads as one word (e.g., "Sarah") right-side up, and a *different* word (e.g., "Mark") when flipped 180 degrees. These are incredibly popular for couples, best friends, and even business logos that want to convey two concepts in one. But they are also the most difficult to design.

The Challenge: Different Letters and Different Symmetries

With a single-word ambigram, you're pairing a letter with *itself* or another letter in the *same* word. With two words, you're forced to pair letters from different words. For example, in "SARAH" / "MARK," the "S" must become the "K," the "A" must become the "R," and so on. This is where artistry is essential. The designer must find a "common ground" shape that looks like both letters simultaneously.

Common Letter Pairings

Some letters are easier to pair than others. Here are a few common pairings that artists use:

• a / e: A lowercase 'a' and 'e' can be designed to look similar when rotated.
• n / u: A lowercase 'n' and 'u' are natural rotational pairs.
• m / w: A lowercase 'm' and 'w' are also natural rotational pairs.
• d / p: A lowercase 'd' and 'p' are another natural rotational pair.
• b / q: A lowercase 'b' and 'q' can also be used as a rotational pair.
• f / j: With some creativity, the hook of a 'j' can become the crossbar of an 'f'.

Tips for a Good Two-Word Design

• Similar Length: It's much easier to design an ambigram for "MARK" (4 letters) and "ANNA" (4 letters) than for "CHRISTOPHER" (11) and "JANE" (4). Try to use words of similar length.
• Shared Letters: Look for letters that are similar when rotated, like "M" and "W," "N" and "N," or "H" and "H."
• Be Flexible: You might need to use a nickname or a shorter version of a name to make it work. For example, "Alexander" and "Catherine" is very difficult, but "Alex" and "Cate" might be possible.
• Embrace Artistry: A perfect, 100% readable ambigram is rare. Most designs are artistic and require you to look for a moment to "get" it. That's part of the fun!

Want to see how your two names might look in this style? Our Two Word Generator creates a concept design to help you visualize the idea.