Posts By :

84 blog

Why Small Print Shops Are Perfect for Your Wedding Needs

Why Small Print Shops Are Perfect for Your Wedding Needs 150 150 84 Sign Shop

Your wedding day is one of the most magical and memorable moments in your life! Every detail matters, and choosing the right print shop for your wedding essentials can make all the difference. When you support a small, local business, you get a personal touch and attention to detail that ensures everything is perfect for your big day! Here’s why you should consider a small business for your wedding printing needs.

Invitations & Save the Dates

Your invitations and save the dates set the tone for your wedding, giving guests their first glimpse of what to expect. Small print shops offer personalized services, allowing you to collaborate closely with designers who can bring your vision to life. They understand the importance of every detail, from paper quality to font selection, and can provide custom designs that reflect your unique style. Their dedication ensures that your invitations and save the dates are perfect, leaving a lasting impression on your guests.

Seating Chart

Seating charts are key for guiding your guests smoothly and elegantly to their seats. Small businesses excel at creating custom seating charts tailored to your wedding theme and venue. Their attention to detail ensures a beautifully crafted chart that complements your décor. Plus, they are flexible and responsive to last-minute changes, ensuring everything runs seamlessly on your big day.

Signage

From welcome signs to directional signage, clear and stylish signage is essential for your wedding. Small print shops can create custom signs that match your wedding’s aesthetic, whether it’s rustic, modern, or classic. They take the time to understand your needs, ensuring each sign adds to the overall vibe of your celebration. Their expertise guarantees your signage is both functional and beautiful.

Place Settings and Menus

The details at your reception, like place settings and menus, enhance the overall experience for your guests. Small businesses can design and print custom place cards and menus that elevate your table settings. Their meticulous attention to detail ensures that every element is cohesive and polished. Working with a local printer lets you communicate specific requests or adjustments, resulting in perfectly crafted items that reflect your style.

Thank You Cards

Expressing gratitude to your guests is a vital part of your wedding journey. Small print shops can create personalized thank you cards that capture the essence of your wedding day. Their ability to offer unique designs and high-quality materials makes your thank you cards stand out. With a focus on personalization and detail, they ensure that your gratitude is conveyed beautifully and sincerely.


Supporting small businesses for your wedding print needs not only provides a more personalized and attentive service but also helps strengthen your local community. The 84 Sign Shop is dedicated to making your big day as perfect as possible with custom, high-quality print items tailored to your vision. Reach out to us for a free quote and let’s make your wedding day unforgettable!

Fun Recycling Tips for World Environment Day

Fun Recycling Tips for World Environment Day 150 150 84 Sign Shop

Happy World Environment Day! Let’s talk about some fun and easy recycling tips that make a difference.

Sort and Separate Your Paper

Organize Your Paper: Sort your paper into piles – office paper, newspapers, magazines, and cardboard. This makes it easier for the recycling centers to process and helps ensure that each type of paper is recycled properly!

Keep It Clean: Ensure your paper is free of food waste, plastic, and sticky stuff. Clean paper is more easily recycled and produces higher quality recycled products!

Shred It Up: Have some old, sensitive documents? Shred them and feel the satisfaction of seeing them transformed into confetti that can still be recycled. It is a best practice to ensure that your personal information stays safe! Shredding documents not only protects your privacy, but it also makes the paper easier to handle and recycle.

Find Creative Ways to Reuse Your Paper

DIY Projects: Before you recycle, think about repurposing your paper! Turn old paper into notebooks, greeting cards, or even wall art. Get crafty and let your creativity shine! Repurposing paper for DIY projects not only reduces waste but also provides a fun and productive way to use up old materials.

Packing Material: Reuse shredded or old paper as packing material. It’s a great way to protect items and reduce waste at the same time. Using paper as packing material is an excellent alternative to bubble wrap or foam, making your packaging more eco-friendly and cost-effective.


Recycling paper is not just good for the environment; it’s fun and easy too! This World Environment Day, let’s all pitch in and make a big impact by recycling our paper and embracing creativity in reuse.

Happy World Environment Day from 84 Sign Shop!

Paper Perfection: A Guide to Choosing the Right Paper for Your Project

Paper Perfection: A Guide to Choosing the Right Paper for Your Project 150 150 84 Sign Shop

From durable Cover Paper to versatile Text Paper, we offer a range of choices to meet your printing needs. Whether you’re creating posters, brochures, or business cards, we have the perfect paper type for you. Dive into our selection below to discover which option best suits your project!

Cover Paper


Cover paper, available in both 80# and 100# variants with a glossy finish, offers a sturdy and durable option for various printing needs. Typically used for posters or invitations, this thick paper ensures longevity and resilience, making it ideal for items that require prolonged durability and protection against damage.

Text Paper

Text paper, available in 80# and 100# options with a glossy finish, provides a versatile and cost-effective solution. Often utilized for brochures, trifolds, booklets, or single-sheet handouts, this flexible paper option offers a balance between thickness and flexibility. Its affordability and glossy finish make it a popular choice for projects requiring professional presentation and readability.

Cardstock


Cardstock offers a cost-effective option for those seeking an alternative to Cover Paper. Though it lacks the glossy sheen of cover paper, cardstock boasts a smooth surface that facilitates easy writing. Commonly used for invitations, thank you cards, business cards, and posters, it provides versatility and functionality.

Coated One Side (C1S)

C1S paper offers a unique blend of glossiness on one side and a matte finish on the other, providing versatility for different printing needs. For instance, it finds common application in raffle cards, where the matte side allows individuals to jot down their information, while the glossy side showcases logos or photos for added visual appeal.

Coated Two Sided (C2S)


C2S paper, distinguished by both sides being glossy, presents a sturdy option suitable for various printing projects. While pricier than cardstock, it’s favored for premium items like business cards, where the glossy finish enhances visual impact. Notably, due to its coated nature, C2S paper isn’t conducive to writing.

Tip: Glossy paper cannot be written on with a regular pen or pencil.


We’ve carefully selected paper options at the 84 Sign Shop that offer the best benefits for our customers! Ready to bring your project to life? Reach out to us today for a free quote and discover which paper type will best suit your needs. Our team at the 84 Sign Shop is here to guide you through the process, ensuring that your project is executed with precision and meets your expectations. Whether you’re printing brochures, business cards, or any other materials, we’ll help you choose the perfect paper type. Don’t hesitate to contact us – let’s get started on your next project together!

The Blueprint for Real Estate Marketing Success

The Blueprint for Real Estate Marketing Success 150 150 84 Sign Shop

In today’s competitive real estate market, a comprehensive marketing strategy is vital for success. Elevate your brand’s credibility, commitment, and identity through expertly crafted design across all your printed marketing materials.

Consistent Branding for Recognition


Establishing a cohesive and consistent brand identity is essential for garnering brand recognition and differentiation in a crowded market. By employing unified design elements across your printed collateral, you not only boost brand visibility but also foster trust and familiarity with your target audience. This uniformity helps in building a strong reputation and reinforcing customer loyalty over time.

The Importance of Color and Fonts

Designing begins with careful consideration of two fundamental elements: colors and fonts. When choosing these elements, it’s crucial to stay aligned with your brand identity. Regarding fonts, reflect on your business’s personality. Do you prefer a polished, timeless appearance with a classic serif font, or do you lean towards a more personalized feel with a handwritten font? Regardless of your choice, prioritize readability.

Images are Everything

Strive to evoke authentic emotions and convey a welcoming and reliable image through your selected photographs. Generic stock images can be easily noticed and may not resonate with your audience. Investing in professional photography is crucial for showcasing your services and available properties effectively.

Print Materials that Every Real Estate Agent Needs


You have various opportunities—from open house invites to yard signs—to market your services, connect with clients, and attract new ones through the use of print materials!

  • Business cards
  • Newsletters
  • Brochures
  • Yard Signs
  • Banners
  • Open House Invitations
  • Thank You Cards
  • Custom Folders

By incorporating these essential print materials into your marketing strategy, you can effectively communicate your brand’s value proposition and leave a lasting impression on clients and prospects alike.


Ready to elevate your real estate marketing game? Look no further than the 84 Sign Shop. Call us today for all your custom-printed marketing material needs – 724-229-2783!

Spring Cleaning for Business Signage

Spring Cleaning for Business Signage 150 150 84 Sign Shop

As we welcome the arrival of the spring season and sunshine, consider refreshing your business’s outdoor signage with some spring cleaning! With the brighter days ahead, clean and well-maintained signage not only enhances your storefront’s appearance but also attracts the attention of potential customers. Take advantage of the season to give your signage a professional makeover, which is a direct reflection of your brands image!

Keeping Your Signage Clean


Over time, outdoor signage is prone to accumulating dust and grime, which can diminish its overall appearance. Regular cleaning is key to maintaining signs that are consistently eye-catching and appear new. To clean the signage, use a soft cloth and a mild detergent to wipe down the signs. For more challenging spots that are harder to reach, a gentle spray of water can effectively refresh the sign’s appearance.

Cleaning Window Decals


Window decals serve as a great way to attract attention to your storefront and convey essential information like store hours. However, for them to be truly effective, it’s crucial to ensure they stay in good condition and remain easily readable.

The recommended method for cleaning window decals involves a gentle hand wash using a basic soap mixture. Utilizing a squeegee or power washer is not advised, as these can peel off the decals. Additionally, harsh chemicals should be avoided, as they can potentially damage the decals.

Cleaning Aluminum Signage


Although aluminum signage is more durable against the elements compared to many other materials, it still requires maintenance to retain its pristine appearance. Regular cleaning is key to ensuring your signs remain bright, shiny, and eye catching!

To clean an aluminum sign effectively, use a solution of slightly soapy water and a soft cotton cloth. It’s essential to avoid using anything stronger, as harsh chemicals can rapidly degrade the material and cause damage to the sign.

Remove Obstructions


During the winter, trees and shrubs often become overgrown, making it challenging to see certain signage. Understandably, trimming shrubs in cold weather isn’t the most appealing task. However, with the arrival of nicer weather, it becomes crucial to tidy up around your signs, ensuring they are easily visible as more people venture outdoors!

Hotel Signage to Elevate the Guest Experience

Hotel Signage to Elevate the Guest Experience 150 150 84 Sign Shop

In the world of hospitality, the journey begins long before guests step through the lobby doors. Hotel signage tells a narrative that unfolds with every directional arrow, elegant room number, and captivating piece of wall art. In this blog post, we will dive into the importance of hotel signage, exploring its role in enhancing the guest experience. From elaborate exterior signage that attracts travelers from afar to the intimate details of room signs and wall art, each element elevates the stay from ordinary to extraordinary.

Exterior Signage

Exterior Branding


Exterior branding and signage serve as the first impression of a hotel, setting the stage for the guest experience. A well-designed exterior sign captures attention, communicates the hotel’s personality, and attracts travelers from a distance. Whether it’s a sleek illuminated logo atop the entrance or a sophisticated acrylic sign, these features are a promise of what lies within. The color palette, font choice, and overall design work together convey the unique brand story.

Exterior Wayfinding

Exterior wayfinding signage helps provide a seamless guest experience. As guests arrive, strategically placed parking signs guide them to designated spaces, ensuring a stress-free beginning to their stay. Pool signage, with clear directions and enticing visuals, transforms a simple amenity into a sought-after retreat. Whether it’s pointing the way to the poolside oasis or providing directions to other facilities, these exterior wayfinding signs play a pivotal role in making guests feel welcomed.

Interior Signage

The reception desk stands as one of the most important parts of any hotel. It is where guests check in, seek information, and close out their trip. A well-crafted reception sign not only provides crucial information but also sets the tone for the hotel’s interior aesthetic. As the first point of interaction, the signage here communicates not just practical details but also the brand’s personality. Interior wayfinding, represented by maps and stairway signage, becomes the guest’s compass for navigating the hotel. Clear, concise signage ensures that guests can effortlessly navigate communal spaces, locate their rooms, and discover amenities without hesitation.

Meeting and Event Space Signage

The importance of meeting and event space signage cannot be overstated. These signs guide attendees to their designated spaces with precision. Imagine a conference with multiple breakout sessions or a wedding with distinct areas for various celebrations — without event signage, guests would have trouble reaching their desired destination. Clear, visible, and strategically placed signage not only eliminate confusion but also enhance the overall flow of the event. Attendees can effortlessly locate their assigned spaces, fostering a sense of confidence and ease. Moreover, these signs serve as essential wayfinding tools for event staff, ensuring efficient coordination and execution.

Hotel Room Signs


In the realm of hospitality, hotel room signage is a silent concierge, providing guests with essential information while contributing to the overall guest experience. The placement of clear and aesthetically pleasing room signs is crucial for ensuring that guests can easily locate their accommodations. From room numbers to “Do Not Disturb” door hangers, these signs offer both functionality and a touch of design that aligns with the hotel’s brand. After all, a well-designed and informative room sign is the first welcome gesture to guests as they step into their home away from home!

Wall Art

Art has the ability to evoke emotions, spark conversations, and leave lasting impressions. In hotel lobbies, strategically placed artwork sets the tone for guests’ stay, creating a welcoming and memorable atmosphere. Moreover, wall decals offer a versatile solution for adding personality and branding to various areas within the hotel, including corridors, event spaces, and guest rooms. Whether showcasing local artists’ work, reflecting the hotel’s theme, or conveying its values, thoughtfully curated wall art and decals play a pivotal role in elevating the guest experience and leaving indelible impressions that extend beyond the physical space.

Love in Print: The History of Valentine’s Day Cards

Love in Print: The History of Valentine’s Day Cards 150 150 84 Sign Shop
Love in Print: The History of Valentine's Day Cards

Love is in the air, and it’s time to unfold the charming history of Valentine’s Day cards! In a world of emojis and text messages, the tradition of sending heartfelt cards has a rich and fascinating story. As we gear up to celebrate the love-filled day, let’s learn about the evolution of this sweet gesture and discover why custom-printed cards are the perfect modern twist!

The Love Notes Begin

The tradition of exchanging Valentine’s Day cards dates back centuries. It all began in the 18th century when the practice of sending handwritten notes and love letters gained popularity among lovers in England. With advancements in printing technology and a surge in sentimentality, elaborate cards adorned with lace, ribbons, and colorful illustrations became all the rage! These intricately designed cards were often handcrafted with care and served as cherished keepsakes for lovers. These heartfelt expressions of affection paved the way for the modern Valentine’s Day card we know and cherish today!

The Mass Production Era

Time to fast forward to the 19th Century where the Industrial Revolution made printed cards more affordable. This enabled people from all walks of life to participate in this delightful tradition!

Modern Day Valentines

While the tradition of exchanging handwritten Valentine’s cards remains cherished, modern times have provided new avenues for expressions of love! Classrooms buzz with excitement as children exchange colorful cards adorned with beloved cartoon characters and heartfelt messages. In the digital realm, brands seize the opportunity to spread love through virtual greetings and interactive experiences.

Spread Love

Whether you’re celebrating with a significant other, cherished friends, or beloved family members, our custom-printed cards are the perfect way to spread love and joy to those who matter most! From classic designs to unique, one-of-a-kind creations, our print services can help you express your love in style!

Digital vs. Print: Striking the Right Balance in Marketing

Digital vs. Print: Striking the Right Balance in Marketing 150 150 84 Sign Shop

In an era dominated by digital platforms, the debate between print and digital marketing often takes center stage. However, key to success is finding the perfect balance between these two powerful mediums. Let’s explore how businesses can leverage the strengths of both print and digital marketing for optimal results.

The Tangible Impact of Print

Print materials offer a tactile and immersive experience that digital channels often struggle to replicate. Business cards, brochures, and posters hold a physical presence that engages the senses, leaving a lasting impression on the recipient. In a world full of digital noise, the tangible nature of print provides a welcomed and memorable touchpoint.

Digital Influence and Reach

On the flip side, digital marketing offers unparalleled reach and immediacy. Social media, email campaigns, and online advertising allow businesses to connect with a vast audience in real-time. The ability to track metrics and adjust strategies on the fly provides a level of flexibility that print can find challenging to match.

Crafting a Unified Brand Story

Successful marketing hinges on delivering a consistent brand story. Integrating print and digital elements ensures that your brand message is reinforced across multiple touchpoints. A potential client may encounter your brand through a well-designed brochure, follow you on social media for updates, and receive timely emails about your latest offerings. This approach creates a comprehensive and memorable brand experience.

Targeting the Right Audience

Each marketing medium has its strengths in reaching specific demographics. Print materials can be particularly effective for local targeting, especially in communities with a strong preference for traditional advertising. Digital platforms, on the other hand, excel in reaching a global audience and are ideal for businesses with a broad customer base.

The 84 Sign Shop Advantage

At the 84 Sign Shop, we recognize the power of print and digital in tandem. From eye-catching banners that make a statement on the streets to engaging social media campaigns that spark online conversations, we understand the need for a balanced approach. The key to successful marketing lies in understanding your audience and selecting the right mix of print and digital strategies. A cohesive marketing plan that integrates both mediums can amplify your brand presence and cater to diverse consumer preferences.

Holiday Gift Guide

Holiday Gift Guide 150 150 84 Sign Shop

‘Tis the season of joy! The 84 Sign Shop is here to sprinkle a touch of personalized magic on your holiday celebrations! Our Holiday Gift Guide is curated with love, offering a collection of thoughtful and custom creations to make your season merry and bright! From Acrylic Prints to Vehicle Decals and Wraps, discover unique gifts that speak volumes and spread cheer.

Acrylic Prints

Capture the holidays with the brilliance of acrylic prints. The clarity and depth of images printed on high-quality acrylic not only captivate attention but also turn cherished memories into timeless masterpieces. Perfect for commemorating special moments, acrylic prints add a touch of elegance to any space, making them an ideal gift that resonates with both style and sentiment.

House Signs

Home is where the heart is, and what better way to express that sentiment than with our custom house signs. Crafted with precision and personalized to your taste, these signs transform any dwelling into a warm and welcoming haven. Whether it’s a family nameplate or a festive holiday greeting, house signs are not just gifts; they’re statements of belonging and pride. Give the gift of identity and let your loved ones adorn their homes with a touch of personalized charm!

Vehicle Decals and Wraps

Rev up the holiday excitement with the gift of personalized vehicle decals and wraps! Beyond mere transportation, vehicles become canvases for self-expression. Our high-quality decals and wraps allow your loved ones to showcase their individuality on the go. From sleek designs to bold statements, these gifts offer a unique way to make a lasting impression. Give the gift of on-the-road style and let your friends and family turn heads wherever they drive!

Canvas Photos

Capture memories in a timeless embrace with canvas photos! These classic yet contemporary pieces add an artistic touch to your gift-giving. Printed on premium canvas, your photos take on a life of their own, becoming not just pictures but stories told through texture and color. The durability and aesthetic appeal of canvas photos make them a cherished gift, preserving moments.


This holiday season, the 84 Sign Shop is your partner in creating memories and spreading joy! From the first snowfall to the last gift unwrapped, let us be a part of your celebrations. Whether you’re decking the halls with house signs or hitting the road with vehicle decals, we’re here to make every moment count. Trust us for all your signage needs, and let’s make this holiday season one to remember!

Christmas Card 101: Timeline & Tips

Christmas Card 101: Timeline & Tips 150 150 84 Sign Shop

The holiday season is right around the corner, and it’s never too early to start thinking about spreading some festive cheer! Christmas cards are a timeless tradition that bring warmth and joy to the hearts of loved ones. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the optimal timeline for printing and sending your Christmas cards. Plus, we’ll share some valuable tips to ensure your cards are not only timely but also filled with the spirit of the season!

Christmas Card Timeline

Ordering Christmas Cards: We recommend ordering your Christmas cards 1-2 weeks before Thanksgiving Day. This provides you time to sign and address the cards without being rushed.

Sending Christmas Cards: We recommend sending out your Christmas cards the first week of December. Starting December 15th, post offices begin to feel the holiday rush therefore your cards may not make it to their destination before Christmas!

How to Address Christmas Cards

When it comes to addressing your Christmas cards, various scenarios call for different approaches:

  1. Single Recipient: For a single recipient, simply use their first and last name.
  2. Married Couple with Different Last Names or Unmarried Couple Living Together: In this case, include both their first and last names with an “and” or “&” separating the two.
    1. For example: “Ms. Alexis Becker and Mr. Michael Brown.”
  3. Married Couple or Family with the Same Last Name: A common practice is to use “The” followed by the family’s last name. For instance, “The Kings” or “The King Family”.
  4. Family with Different Last Names: When parents have different last names, include both their first and last names. Then, list the children’s names on a separate line. For example, “Mrs. Jane Swenson and Mr. Kyle Hodder” followed by “Sarah, James, and Tyler.” For a more informal approach, you can use both parents’ last names separated by a slash. For instance, “The Swenson/Hodder Family.”

Other Christmas Card Tips & Tricks

  • When signing a card on behalf of the entire family, avoid using an apostrophe in your last name. For instance, sign as “The Smiths,” not “The Smith’s.” In unusual cases where a family name ends with “ch”, “sh”, “s”, “x”, or “z”, add “es” to the end of the family name. For instance, sign as “The Welches.”
  • Don’t forget to include your return address to the envelope (top left hand corner)! It’s like a safety net for your mail – if it ever takes a wrong turn, it’ll find its way back to you!

Ready to get into the holiday spirit? Give us a call to place your Christmas card order (724) 229-2783