Today’s post is a rapid-fire read to help beginners get started with their sign design and installation. Read on to learn about sign design, maintenance, and more.
What are my Choices for Sign Material?
Most of our sign business partners offer the following options:
- Acrylic
- Aluminum
- Banner
- Corrugated plastic
- Fabric
- PVC
- Magnetic
- Vinyl
- Wood
However, material availability will vary by location.
To choose your sign substrate, think about how and where you intend to use the final product. Sturdy materials like wood and aluminum may be better suited for outdoor use, while corrugated plastic and banners are eminently portable, making them ideal for trade shows and other temporary indoor setups.
What Fonts can I Use?
There are literally hundreds of options – too many to list here. But rest assured: we’ll have what you’re looking for. If we don’t have the font you need in-house, we will find somebody within the Signworld business alliance who does.
When choosing a font, it’s important to strike a balance between form and function; that is, fonts must be legible, but also striking and “on-brand” (would you hire a law firm whose sign used Comic Sans?).
Contact a member of the Signworld alliance to learn more about how to properly factor visibility, readability, noticeability, and legibility into your final decision.
Can I use Copyrighted Images in My Sign?
Yes, but only when you’ve acquired permission from the owner in the form of a written release.
However, you are welcome to bring copyrighted images into your consultation to help flesh out your vision.
How Long Until My Sign is Ready?
Sign projects vary in length depending on a number of different factors. Some orders may be ready in 24 hours or less, while large-scale projects, like Tiger Works Signs & Graphics’ wholesale rebranding of six apartment complexes, take a little longer!
The Signworld affiliate you work with will provide an estimate based on its unique materials, size, and complexity.
What Kind of Sign Maintenance is Required?
Maintenance needs will depend entirely on the sign’s style, substrate, and usage.
That said, here are a few general pointers:
- For banners, cleaning with soap and warm water is always best. Instead of folding, roll banners with the lettering facing out. Never leave your banner sitting in a hot car, as this can cause serious damage. And be sure to use all the grommets so that tension and wear are distributed evenly.
- For magnetic signs, wash with warm water and soap. Weekly cleanings are recommended. Be sure the sign is dry before replacing. Always install magnetic signs over flat surfaces (i.e. avoid molding on vehicles). And when storing your sign, lay it out flat to avoid damage.
- To care for acrylic signs, clean by applying a mild soap and warm water solution with a soft, non-abrasive, lint-free cloth, then rinse. Never use any products containing alcohol, bleach, ammonia, or harsh detergents, as these may cause splintering and fracturing. Rough pads and dry clothes should also be avoided, as these can push dirt around and leave tiny scratches on your sign.
How do I Find a Signworld Partner Near Me?
Visit https://www.signworld.org to find a member of our business alliance near you.
