When shopping in a new town, what lures you into some stores and keeps you out of others? The window displays, the lighting, and the custom signs all probably have a lot to do with your interest in going inside.

That's why you work hard to make your business appear as sharp and professional as the services you provide. And if you're just starting out in your business or need to update your image, the best place to start is with a new custom sign.

Just What Makes A Custom Sign 'Bad'?

Custom signs seem so simple at first. Just plop a sign in front of your business that bears your name, and people will know where you are. True, custom signs do perform the practical function of letting people find you, but you want more than that! You want people to notice you, have curiosity about you, respect you, and most importantly, remember you.

Unfortunately, bad signage does not perform up to this level.

Bad custom signs are ones that have too many words. Many people think that filling up a custom sign with text not only explains their business's mission but captures their interest as well. Not so.

If your custom sign says too much, not only will people be slowed down trying to digest all you are trying to say, they will lose interest before ever coming inside. Keep custom signs short, sweet, and to the point.

Bad custom signs are also ones that have too many graphics. If your custom sign appears busy and cluttered, guess what that says about your business? You may have wonderful artistic vision, but save it for your business and keep graphics to a minimum on your custom sign.

Bad custom signs are signs that are not placed properly. Is your sign a small free-standing aluminum custom sign in front of a large building? Is it an enormous aluma-wood custom sign on top of a small storefront that breaks city code? Is your custom sign hidden from view by shrubs or other obstacles? You want your custom sign to attract business, so place an appropriately sized sign in a spot that yields optimal exposure.

Just What Makes A Custom Sign 'Ugly'?

Even if you follow the guidelines to avoid a bad custom sign, you could end up with an ugly one. How is this possible? Well...

Ugly custom signs are ones that are made of materials that can not stand up to the weather, therefore leaving them faded and battered after prolonged exposure outdoors. Who wants their business to look worn and torn?

For example, vinyl banners are great for temporary events, such as sales and grand openings. However, if you plan to affix a vinyl banner permanently on top of your large building, it would last for a while but eventually look a little wind-beaten. A strong, heavy-duty performance sign made of aluma-wood or alumalite are more appropriate choices for a permanent, mounted custom sign.

What about hand-painted wooden signs? I see these in front of a lot of independently-owned businesses. They tend to fade and rot after a while, not to mention they just don't look as professional as custom designed sign. I applaud all small business owners - my family owned a bookstore for thirty-four years - but invest in a custom sign to promote a professional image.

Ugly signs are also ones that have bad use of color. Often, many businesses have signs that use NO color, just black and white. This can look attractive and professional if the lettering and graphics are of high-quality, but a little color never hurt anyone. And too much can hurt everyone.

Select a few colors for your custom sign that are appropriate for your type of business but make it stand out from the others. Our graphic designers will be more than happy to help you with creating your perfect custom sign.

So, What Is A Good Custom Sign?

A good custom sign is first and foremost constructed out of appropriate materials. We offer aluminum, aluma-wood, alumalite, aluma-plastic, plastic, vinyl, to name a few. Our staff with over twenty years of experience will help guide you towards the right type of sign that will not only look the best but will also hold up the best for the type of conditions in which it will be displayed.

A good custom sign had a well-balanced shape and size. Again, our experienced design team can help you decide on appropriate dimensions.

A good custom sign has simple, eye-catching graphics. Your company logo is all you need for your custom sign. If you don't have one, feel free to consult our graphic design team.

A good custom sign uses color to its advantage. Color is a powerful tool in attracting the eye - let it speak for your business.

Finally, a good custom sign is a professionally-constructed sign!

Avoid the bad and the ugly and call or email us today!