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Mastering the Art of Typography: Tips for Eye-Catching Text
Mastering the Art of Typography: Tips for Eye-Catching Text 150 150 84 Sign Shop

Arguably one of the most important elements of your project is the typography, which is the fonts, colors, and text sizes you choose. Typography has the power to pull the reader in and make your printed project stand out. In this blog post you will find tips on how to ensure that the text of your project is eye-catching and effective.

Choosing the Right Fonts

Font choice is incredibly important for any project, especially for those that are printed. Fonts can be eye catching and grab attention, but also can end up being distracting if used incorrectly. The rule of thumb is to use no more than three total fonts on a project. Generally speaking, serif fonts pair well with sans serif fonts. It also is important to consider the purpose of what you are printing. If it is a Save the Date for a wedding, the font choices will be more elaborate than if you are printing a business card.

Consider the Font Size

When thinking about font size, it is important to think about the objective of your project. If you are printing a banner, the text is going to be a lot larger than if you are printing a brochure or restaurant menu. Large text is going to catch the eye first, therefore make this the most important, such as a call to action.

The Important of a Test Print

No matter how much thought you put into the typography of a project, you will not know how everything will look until the project is printed out. We suggest printing a test of your project so that you can ensure that font sizes are legible, the spacing is correct, and the fonts mesh well together. This will save you time and money in the long run and will limit the risk of having to re-do the project.

Creating eye-catching print material starts with strong typography! Our team of designers is here to assist you with your project and can provide helpful tips to ensure that your project is easy to read and stands out amongst the competition.

How to Prepare for a Vehicle Wrap
How to Prepare for a Vehicle Wrap 150 150 84 Sign Shop

Vehicle wraps are a beneficial way to promote your business and express creativity. It is important to make sure that your vehicle is prepped properly to see the best results! This blog will discuss tips and best practices for prepping your vehicle.

Know What You Want

Knowing what you want before getting your vehicle wrapped is a crucial step in ensuring a successful and satisfying outcome. Vehicle wraps are a creative way to personalize your car’s appearance, but careful planning and consideration are essential to achieving the desired result. Beforehand, decide whether you want a full wrap, a partial wrap, or specific graphics. Knowing the color scheme, graphics, patterns, and any branding elements in advance helps the wrap designer create a design that aligns with your business and brand.

Cleaning

Before bringing in your vehicle to be wrapped, try to have the exterior as clean as possible. You want a clean surface on the car so the stickers and wrapping adheres. Simply taking your car to a local car wash will make a huge difference. Also, removing accessories or add-ons before wrapping a car is recommended as well. While it might seem like an extra step, it can significantly improve the quality of the wrap installation and help avoid potential issues.

Repairs and Inspections

Make sure to have your vehicle inspected so it’s in the best possible shape. Fixing these issues before wrapping ensures a smoother surface for the wrap to adhere to, leading to a more polished and durable result. An inspection can help identify areas where the wrap might not lay flat or adhere properly, such as around edges, curves, or contours. Proper preparation before wrapping can result in a seamless and professional appearance. Also, if you’re getting a custom design or graphics on your wrap, inspecting the car beforehand can help you and the wrap designer plan the layout and placement of the graphics for the best visual impact.

Don’t Wax!

Do not wax or do any ceramic coating before getting your vehicle wrapped. Wax creates a layer of protection and shine on the car’s surface, but this layer can interfere with the adhesive properties of the vinyl wrap. The wrap needs to adhere directly to the paint for a secure and long-lasting bond. If wax is present, it can prevent the wrap from adhering properly, leading to potential lifting, bubbling, or peeling over time. This will also make it harder for the installer to properly work on the vehicle.

Overall, prepping your car before getting it wrapped is a crucial step for achieving a high-quality and long-lasting wrap installation. It ensures optimal adhesion, a smooth finish, and a clean appearance, while also contributing to the overall success and satisfaction of the wrap!

The Importance of Restaurant Signage
The Importance of Restaurant Signage 150 150 84 Sign Shop
Restaurant Signage

The role that restaurant decor plays in establishing and enhancing the overall mood and atmosphere of the dining establishment is undeniably significant. The right decor can create a cozy, romantic, trendy, or casual mood, depending on the restaurant’s theme and target audience. A well-designed interior and exterior can enhance the overall dining experience and leave a lasting impression on customers.

Restaurant Graphics

When done correctly, adding graphics or typography to your restaurant walls can transform the customer experience. When you have bold and colorful graphics, it catches the customer’s eye. Artwork on the walls provides customers something to look at while eating but can also spark conversation. This also creates a brand identity and theme to the restaurant.

Having graphics in your restaurant can also be used as a marketing strategy. Eye-catching walls and graphics provide a ‘social media moment’ for customers that they will be excited to post about! It’s a great opportunity to get your restaurant noticed on social media and target a larger audience.

Menus

Craft a menu that’s just right for your customers that matches their tastes. The menu is often one of the first things customers notice. Showcase your dishes on a well-decorated menu. A well-designed and visually appealing menu can create a positive first impression, making the customers more inclined to dine at the restaurant again. There are many different styles and fonts you can choose from when creating a menu, but make sure it’s easy to read

On the Go

If your restaurant offers catering or has a delivery truck, consider decorating it with decals or a vehicle wrap as a strategic approach to gain recognition for your establishment. Your delivery truck can offer numerous benefits and advantages for your business. A well-decorated delivery truck serves as a moving billboard for your business, which creates brand visibility and awareness as it travels through different neighborhoods and locations.

In summary, restaurant decorations are not just about aesthetics, they are an integral part of the overall dining experience. Well-thought-out décor can help a restaurant attract, create a strong brand identity, and differentiate itself from competitors.

How to Prepare Your Classroom for the First Day
How to Prepare Your Classroom for the First Day 150 150 84 Sign Shop

It’s that time again, and back to school is just around the corner! You want to make things special for your new students with classroom signage! Research shows that a well-organized, decorated classroom can really help students perform better. A good classroom is all about positive decorations, both inside and out. Pictures and visuals are like secret tools that make learning more interesting – they can even help students learn without them realizing it!

Visuals

Enhance your classroom’s appeal by incorporating signs and graphics that infuse vibrant colors and decorative charm. Personalize these visual elements to harmonize with the unique atmosphere of your learning space. Not only will these visuals captivate the eye, but they’ll also serve as informative tools, Include educational posters, charts, maps, and other visual aids that support the curriculum!

Posters serve as silent educators that contribute to a dynamic and enriched classroom environment, where learning is not only informative but also captivating. These decorative tools are strategically placed on walls or bulletin boards to reinforce educational content, foster a positive atmosphere, and stimulate student engagement, while also bringing color, creativity, and a personalized touch to the learning environment, creating a welcoming and inspiring space.

Name tags might seem like a simple element, but they have a profound impact on the classroom environment, particularly for younger students. They enhance personalization, memory retention, social interactions, and overall classroom management, contributing to a positive and effective learning experience.

Labels

Labeling everything in your classroom is also very important, especially for younger students. Classrooms always have a lot of equipment and keeping track of everything can sometimes be difficult. By using labels, students will know where everything is in the classroom and feel more comfortable in the environment by helping them find resources more easily.

Planners

Utilizing planners is an effective method for maintaining organization. They offer assistance in arranging tasks, projects, and objectives in a well-structured fashion. Planners play a role in establishing goals for both teachers and students, adding a feeling of guidance and intention.

A visually appealing classroom with colorful decorations or informative posters can capture students’ attention and keep them engaged. When students are motivated and interested in their surroundings, they are more likely to be enthusiastic about learning and participating in class activities. A well-organized classroom can set a positive tone and ensure a successful school year.  

The Importance of Business Cards
The Importance of Business Cards 150 150 84 Sign Shop

Business cards are a valuable source for promoting your business and building connections. Business cards contain key details of a company. And they are an easy and efficient way to make a quick first impression on future customers. Business cards are an effective way to highlight a company’s products or services.

When creating your business card, your main goal is turning the cards into a direct marketing tool for your target audience. Understand what audience or demographic you are aiming for and begin from there.

The first step is finding the perfect size and shape for the card. The size and shape will affect how much information and space you include on the card. The format of a common business card is usually horizontal and shaped like a credit card. This format is a safe place to begin with.

When organizing your card, you will want two sides. One side will be for the information and the other side will be to capitalize your logo. For the information side, you should include your name, company name, job title, and contact information or social media. The other side should include a design of your company logo, or any graphic designs to catch the attention of your future customers or clients. Also, any information included should have a clear and bold font, it will be easier for customers to read and understand the information. When including a lot of information, be sure to have the right size of font to successfully fit on the card.

Furthermore, make sure your card is as durable as possible. This will show longevity, showing the card stays intact and presentable for an extended period. As well as professionalism, leaving a positive impression and enhancing your credibility and perceived value of your brand.

The use of business cards can be an effective way of marketing your brand. Despite the digital age we live in today, business cards continue to hold significance.

Some fast facts about business cards…

  • According to a survey, a brand’s overall sales see an increase of 25% on every 2000 business cards handed out.
  • Business cards date back to 600 years; with the earliest use seen in 15th century China.
  • A potential customer has a better chance of keeping a colored business card 10x longer than a standard white one.
  • According to a report from Statistic Brain Research Institute, 72% of people judge a company or a person based on the quality of their business cards.
  • The same report states that 39% of people would choose not to do business with a company if they had a “cheap looking” business card.

Elevate the Fan Experience with Signage
Elevate the Fan Experience with Signage 150 150 84 Sign Shop

Thousands of fans enter arenas and stadiums to watch their favorite athletes and teams play each year. Whether the teams are successful or not, the surroundings of graphics and signage are extremely important to create the electric atmosphere. Game day signage is important and a direct representation of the brand, boosts the fan experience, and helps create an exciting atmosphere.

Wall Decals

Wall decals are one of the most common advertising tools in sports. The visuals not only create brand awareness but help connect with the fans and convey messages for informational or entertainment purposes. You can effortlessly stick different designs, patterns, or lettering wall decals to almost any surface.

  • Wall graphics allow fans see their favorite players and action shots up close! Add and customize graphics to match your team colors or even put an image of your mascot!
  • Educate the spectators on the history of the teams by showcasing your winning records and stat breakers! Fans would love to see and study it during a timeout or half time! It gives the fans an opportunity to learn more about the team.  

Pole Banners

Pole banners are an additional way to advertise. Branding the exterior of your building is just as important as the interior. Pole banners will be the first thing your fans see arriving at the event and the last thing they see leaving the game. There are multiple options for pole banners which can be easily swapped out or updated throughout the seasons.

Signage

Signage is another tool for advertising your brand. There are many different types of signage you can use to catch the fans’ attention. Signage comes in a variety of shapes and sizes and can be used indoors or outdoors.

  • Concession stand signage is crucial to have for when fans are waiting in line for a drink or some snacks.
  • When arenas are too big, fans are easily confused, therefore directional signage assists the fans to navigate where they need to go. It’s such a simple yet helpful addition to any venue.
  • Show off some branded visuals with sponsorship signage. These visuals will bring recognition to sponsors and corporate partners your team has. The signage will showcase the relationship between the sponsors and the sports teams.

Ground Decals

Ground decals help increase brand awareness as well as assist in directing foot traffic. With custom floor decals, you can improve the visibility and branding while enhancing the customer experience.

  • Ground decals are highly visible from a distance. People are accustomed to viewing traditional advertising methods, therefore ground decals are a unique way to highlight your brand.
  • You can educate fans with floor graphics and show off facts, information, or achievements.
  • Ground decals help control customer traffic and the flow of your arena.
  • Add more color and designs with customizing graphics for different locations all around the arena.

Regardless of a team’s record, you want to make sure the fans leave with great memories and experiences. Fans are a vital part of a team’s success by providing support, energy, and financial sustenance while also contributing to the excitement, and entertainment to the sports they love. Signage assists in entertaining and educating your fanbase and will help provide a memorable experience.

Tips for the Perfect Banner
Tips for the Perfect Banner 150 150 84 Sign Shop

Banners grab attention, drive traffic and are an important part of advertising your business or team. Banners are a great tool to stand out and draw people’s attention. There are different ways you can go about designing the perfect banner.

Simplicity is Best

  • Your banner should have the least number of words as possible, while still getting your message across to the audience. You want the word count to range between five to ten words. Too much wording will take too long to read and lead to confusion.
  • The audience may see your banner for only a few seconds, and it might be the only time they will ever see your banner. A great banner will grab the reader’s attention and make them to want to learn more!
  • You want the lettering to be big and bold enough to read. Try to stay away from fonts that would affect the visibility of the banner. Use no more than two font styles and keep a cohesive font across all of your branding. The headline should be the biggest size and font, then the details should be smaller.

Make Sure it’s Durable

  • Since your banner may be outside for long periods of time, using strong materials will make sure it stays in the best shape. We have many different options for long lasting banners. Some of the sizing options are the 7 oz, 13 oz, and 18 oz. We offer fence banners, pole banners, retractable banners, and feather flags.

Banner Size and Location

  • Decide what size will be best for your banner. The size of it will depend on the location and how noticeable you request it to be.
  • Common sizes include 8’x4’ or 7’x3’ (standard sizes for fence banners), 24’x16’ or 48’x16’ (billboards), and 4’x16’ (mesh stage banner or also known as speaker mesh).

Images and Colors

  • Add just the right number of images and to complete your banner. Too many images can cause confusion!
  • Add color to make your banner stand out – most times, brands are recognized by their colors and logos!
  • Use colors that draw attention to themselves and have a different way of expressing the message.

Here are a few color combinations that go well together:

  • Black, dark blue, gray, or red lettering on a white background
  • White or yellow lettering on a black background.
  • White or yellow lettering on a dark blue background.
  • Black or red lettering on a light blue background.
  • Black, dark blue, or red lettering on a yellow background.
  • Yellow or white lettering on a red background.

Banners make an instant impression and impact on people as soon as they are spotted on the road, street, buildings, or even cars. Let us help you design the perfect banner and get recognized!

Kick-start Your Small Business This Summer
Kick-start Your Small Business This Summer 150 150 84 Sign Shop

 As a small business, it is important to create brand loyalty with first time customers to improve your customer return rate in the future. Creating personal relationships with your customers can give your products an advantage over much larger companies. Handwritten notes, company stickers, business cards and personalized labels are only some products we offer that can boost your customer experience!

Why Custom?

Brand loyalty is one way to increase engagement for your business as it grows. Brand loyalty can lead to first-time customers revisiting your site or store for a second purchase. It might even end with the customers recommending a product to a friend. Utilizing custom items such as thank you cards add a personalized element that most large companies do not include in their customer experience.

Where Should You Start?

84 Sign Shop offers a variety of products that can be added to your product package to customize your customer’s experience. We advise you to select your custom items based on what experience you want to create for your customers!

  • Custom labeling: Packaging and attention to detail is one way to bring brand awareness to your small business. Custom labeling personalizes products and can be a key part of brand recognition.
  • Brochures: Effective and cost-effective marketing tactics are important to all start-up companies. Brochures are one of the most successful marketing forms that are adaptable and resourceful.
  • Stickers: Creating a competitive advantage in your industry is important to separate your business from larger corporate businesses. Competitive advantages can be achieved in many ways, including incorporating creative aspects to your business such as stickers.
  • Business cards: The accessibility of your small business could be one reason it is struggling to grow in profit and sales. Business cards are a way to share all company information in a quick and accessible manner.
  • Cards: Creating a personalized experience can turn a first-time customer to a loyal customer. Personalized thank you cards are a memorable way to show appreciation to each customer.

Contact our team today for a free quote and improve your customer’s experience: 724-229-2783

Spice Up Your Food Truck with New Signage
Spice Up Your Food Truck with New Signage 150 150 84 Sign Shop

Summer is upon us, which means warm weather and sunny days. Everyone will be anticipating their local food trucks. Why are food trucks popular? We are a nation of instant gratification and precious time; everyone is always on the go or in a hurry. Food trucks offer a variety of diverse foods in a short amount of time. Food trucks started as covered wagons and have now evolved into high-quality, colorful restaurants on wheels. Stay up to-to-date with advancing your truck by creating and designing custom vehicle wraps, signs, banners, prints, and menus for your truck to get your customers’ attention! Marketing and visibility are just as important as the food!

Here are some tips to have the best food truck on the block:

Vehicle wraps and graphics

  • You want your food truck to stand out as much as possible amongst your competition. We specialize in vehicle wraps and decals! We do a variety of different wraps and provide full or partial wraps, fleet graphics, decals, magnets, or even full color changes.

Make your food truck menu easy to read

  • On a hot, summer day, don’t make customers work too hard reading the menu! Make it as easy as possible to read with bold, big lettering, and vibrant colors. Our banners and signage will be perfect to display your menu and info on your food truck! Our staff can customize the design of the menus to your liking.

Create options to increase customer satisfaction

  • If you have customers wanting more, have multiple mini menus for them to take on the go! We offer a wide range of small format printing services. There are many options for the paper used as well. If you want the menu to last longer, go with a thicker, substantial sheet of paper, so your customers may have the menu as long as they please to. Also, we offer business cards to hand out your contact info and stickers to extend your brand.
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