Have you ever walked down a street and noticed a sign jutting out from the building, beckoning you inside? That's a blade sign, and it's one of the most effective ways to catch the attention of potential customers. Blade signs, also known as projecting signs, are an excellent way to promote your business and attract foot traffic. They're mounted perpendicular to the building and can be seen from both sides of the street which makes them different from cabinet signs.
In this ultimate guide, we'll dive into what blade signs are, why they're important for businesses, and how to create a great one. Whether you're a small business owner or a marketing professional looking for new ways to stand out, you won't want to miss this guide. So, let's get started and explore the world of blade signs!
Blade signs have been around for centuries, with evidence of their use dating back to ancient Rome. These early signs were typically made from stone or wood and hung from the front of a building. Over time, the design and materials used for blade signs have evolved, with metal, glass, and neon becoming popular choices for modern signs.
In the United States, blade signs became a popular form of advertising in the early 20th century, with businesses using them to stand out in crowded urban areas. In recent years, blade signs have made a comeback, with many small businesses using them to create a unique and eye-catching presence on the street.
Today, blade signs come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials, and can be customized to fit the branding and style of any business. From sleek and modern to rustic and traditional, blade signs offer endless design possibilities.
Blade signs come in a variety of types, each with its own unique benefits and design options. Here are a few of the most common types of blade signs:
Illuminated Blade Signs
Illuminated blade signs are a great way to increase visibility and stand out at night. These signs use LED lights or neon tubes to create a bright and eye-catching effect that can be seen from a distance. Illuminated blade signs are also a great way to create a sense of ambiance and atmosphere, making them a popular choice for restaurants, bars, and nightclubs.
Non-Illuminated Blade Signs
Non-illuminated blade signs are a great way to create a more subtle and understated look. These signs are often made from materials such as wood or metal and can be painted or decorated to match the branding and style of your business. Non-illuminated blade signs are a great way to create a rustic or traditional look, and can be used in a variety of settings.
Hanging Blade Signs
Hanging blade signs are mounted from a bracket or arm that extends from the building. These signs can be customized to fit the size and shape of your building, and are a great way to create a unique and eye-catching look. Hanging blade signs are often used in historic districts or areas with strict signage regulations, as they can be mounted without damaging the building.
Blade signs have been used by businesses of all types and sizes to create a unique and eye-catching presence on the street. Here are a few examples of successful blade sign campaigns:
Shake Shack
Shake Shack, the popular fast-casual restaurant chain, uses a simple and clean blade sign design that reflects the branding and style of the business. The sign features the company's logo and is illuminated with bright LED lights, making it easy to spot from a distance.
Baked & Wired
Baked & Wired, a popular bakery and coffee shop in Washington, D.C., uses a hanging blade sign that reflects the rustic and traditional style of the business. The sign features the company's logo and is mounted from a bracket that extends from the building, creating a unique and eye-catching look.
The Golden Nugget
The Golden Nugget, a historic casino in Las Vegas, uses a projecting blade sign that is a true icon of the city. The sign features the company's logo and is illuminated with bright neon lights, making it a must-see attraction for tourists and locals alike.
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Designing a great blade sign is all about creating a look that reflects the branding and style of your business. Here are a few tips for creating a great blade sign design:
Keep it Simple
When it comes to blade sign design, less is often more. A simple and clean design will be more effective at catching the attention of potential customers than a cluttered or busy design. Focus on the key elements of your business, such as your logo or tagline, and use those as the basis for your design.
Choose the Right Materials
The materials you choose for your blade sign can have a big impact on its overall look and feel. Consider the style of your building and the branding of your business when choosing materials. Metal, wood, and glass are all popular choices for blade signs, and can be customized to fit the look and feel of your business.
Use Contrasting Colors
Using contrasting colors is a great way to make your blade sign stand out. Choose colors that complement each other and create a sense of contrast, such as black and white or red and green. This will make your sign easier to read and more effective at catching the attention of potential customers.
At Custom Business Signs, we're here to make sure you get the service you deserve. We conduct a site visit, design based on your ideas, and provide a mock up that you approve before we do any work. Reach out today to get started!
Before installing a blade sign, it's important to be aware of any regulations or permits that may be required. Depending on the location of your business, there may be zoning or building codes that dictate the size, shape, and placement of signage.
In some areas, there may be historic preservation regulations that limit the type of signage that can be used. It's important to check with your local government or zoning board to ensure that your blade sign meets all regulations and requirements.
In addition to zoning and building regulations, permits may be required for the installation of a blade sign. These permits may include electrical permits for illuminated signs, as well as permits for mounting the sign to the building. It's important to work with a licensed and experienced sign installer who can ensure that your blade sign meets all regulations and requirements.
Blade signs are a great way to increase visibility, attract foot traffic, and create a unique and eye-catching presence on the street. Whether you're a small business owner or a marketing professional, a blade sign can help you stand out from the competition and create a memorable impression on potential customers.
If you're considering a blade sign for your business, it's important to work with a licensed and experienced sign installer who can ensure that your sign meets all regulations and requirements. With the right design, materials, and installation, a blade sign can be a powerful tool for promoting your business and attracting foot traffic for years to come.
If you think you would like to start the process of getting a blade sign for your business, we can help. Contact us to get a quote or ask us any questions you have about custom signage.