US Signcrafters recently wrapped an all-exterior project at Marian High School in Mishawaka, where signage was installed to help with traffic flow within multiple lots, as well as guide visitors to athletic facilities and other campus locations.

“I made it happen,” said USS sign consultant Steven Tucker of his project role.

“Basically, I kept everyone on the same page with all of the moving parts. We coordinated with a mason and an electrician and also staked every single location. We made sure signs were going in the right place, made sure copy was accurate because a lot of these were directional signs and arrows — we basically made sure the school was happy with what they had and made sure we were consistent with their newly established brand standards such as colors and fonts.”

Directional signs are designed to give visitors a clear indication of where they need to go, pointing them in the right direction with arrows and clear, concise messages. 

“Basically, anyone coming from other schools, you’re not going to know it like the back of your hand like if you have kids who go there or you go there yourself,”  Steven said. “It really helps visiting schools more than anything and then becomes second nature if you’re already there.”

Way-finding signs, on the other hand, provide a more comprehensive approach to navigation by displaying maps and other information that helps visitors situate themselves within the school’s layout. 

“They’re placed at entrances,” Steven said of Marian High School’s way-finding additions. “For example, across Logan Street, there’s the soccer stadium and tennis. And then in the main lot, we also directed people to the auditorium and football stadium.”

These signs are especially helpful for events like parent-teacher conferences, athletic events or orientation days, where large groups of visitors may require guidance. By utilizing strategic placement and clear messaging, directional and way-finding signs can be an invaluable tool for any school, ensuring a positive and stress-free experience for all visitors.

How US Signcrafters Can Help

US Signcrafters is devoted to providing the highest level of care and service to our clients, regardless of industry or scope. One area in which we excel is the design, fabrication and installation of directional and way-finding signage. For schools or other large institutions, it can be difficult to ensure visitors find their way around campus or buildings. That’s where US Signcrafters can help, offering our expertise in creating clear and easy-to-understand signage that guides people exactly where they need to go. From initial design concepts to the final product, our team at US Signcrafters is committed to diverting eyes and delivering exceptional results.

Have a question? Contact us today and tell us about your next project!

Employee Spotlight

How did you enter the sign industry?

I got a chance with another company in town and it wasn’t directly sign-related, but what I was doing was surveying signs for Cricket Wireless and Chrysler facilities. It was a friend of mine who hired me as a 1099 contractor. They had a list of job sites and they needed to catalog what was existing for when they rolled out future changes. So I’d gather photos and measurements, essentially, and make sure I wasn’t missing anything, walk the whole parking and submit those photos and measurements while answering any questions about the site. 

That was summer 2014, my first summer out college; by the end of that August, I had an office job of a project manager-type. I was running survey projects like that rather than being someone in the field. I had a half-dozen people or so report to me with their findings. So, I did that for a while and then moved over to Signcrafters, and now I see our work locally.  We’re actually a fabrication and install shop; I didn’t use to be a part of that at all — we were more of the pre-planning stage of a sign project. 

As a consultant what’s your approach when receiving jobs for a US Signcrafters client? 

First, I want to see what they’re thinking and maybe set some expectations, a timeline, a budget, what they’re comfortable with.  I want to know what’s the underlying need for the sign. So, you have all sorts of different scenarios; a name change is common, someone opening a second location is a common, a new logo — so, establishing why they need the sign. It can be as simple as just, ‘Hey, we need to help people find this building, or an entrance or help identify a building.’ I figure out the need and how to best address that by talking that through. 

Why do you enjoy working in the sign industry?

Well, being that I’m working in my backyard here, I’m seeing the signs go up, and it’s kind of a little point of pride of, I guess, beautifying the area, making sure we’re doing attractive signs. So seeing the end product come together and to have it be a cool place in the community. Like Sun King Brewing in downtown Mishawaka; I did that and it’s pretty cool. 

Like, you could have this really cool construction project but you could blow it with an ugly sign. The sign is so important and far too often gets overlooked.

What’s your favorite type of sign and why?

I enjoy doing monument signs usually because that means the place is going to be there for a long time. You’re laying brick, you’re setting a foundation and it’s being planted at an entrance or right in front of a building. It’s usually in a place by the road so people can drive by and see it. You won’t have to turn your head to the building. Usually you have a little more a blank canvas. With a building, you can have all sorts of obstructions you’re working with, and if you have a nice, open front yard area, it’s a little easier; you’re just looking for good sight lines so it’s visible. It’s something you can as your passing by, which is why I like it, and it’s gonna be there for a long.

What’s a sign from your childhood that’s seared into your memory?

The local VFW. I’m from Wheaton, Illinois, a Chicago suburb. What they had out front was kind of like a veterans display and they had a tank in front yard. I always thought that was so cool. And thinking back, it’s like, “Oh, that was to signify it was a VFW.” I just always though it, “Oh, that’s really cool. There’s a tank right there.” A cool landmark is essentially a sign, if you’re doing it right.

Which project would you consider a career highlight? 

I really liked doing the Marian High School job, which was one of my first big ones. And then the second one is definitely the Mishawaka City Hall. Last year, they consolidated the police department and utilities and City Hall operations. It was a big undertaking, and we were part of it, helping people find their way around this large facility.

That one was a little more of a challenge because it was looking at plans. Marian was already there, it’s already there. So we were having to trust the word of architects. One thing was making sure materials fit through doors. We had this big 10-foot display that we wanted to fit, but turns out we had to reduce it down about a foot and a half because it wouldn’t fit some doors. So things as simple as that, you just don’t think about sometimes. 

Take a look around: large-format prints are widely used in a variety of workspaces, from retail stores and hotels to exhibitions and trade shows; these prints can be used to display products, communicate important information, boost brand awareness or simply add some aesthetic appeal to your surroundings.

However, designing and creating large-format prints is no easy feat. Fortunately, US Signcrafters is here to assist you in producing the perfect prints. Our experienced team of designers and signage experts can help you select the right look, materials and printing technology that will enhance your brand recognition while effectively delivering your message. Read on to discover the benefits and characteristics of large-format printing and how US Signcrafters can help in your next print project.

Eye-Catching Size

One of the most significant benefits of large-format prints is the size they afford. Unlike conventional prints, which are often confined to small, standard sizes, large-format prints can be sized to fit most wall areas. This means businesses can create bold, attention-grabbing visuals that span entire walls to communicate their messages, products or services in a manner that’s hard to miss and near impossible to ignore. The larger size also allows for more detail, meaning customers can gain a better understanding of what your company is about at first glance. Moreover, since the prints are larger than traditional advertising materials, they have a greater chance of drawing attention from farther away.

Cost-Efficient Advertising

Large-format prints also tend to be much more cost efficient than traditional signage options. Many businesses use them as a way to advertise their services or products without having to invest too much money upfront. In addition, once you’ve purchased the print itself, large-format prints require little maintenance over time which helps keep costs down even more. This makes them ideal for businesses looking for an effective advertising solution without breaking the bank.

Crisp Visuals

The high resolution that large-format printing can provide is crucial in displaying crisp visuals. Businesses can use this opportunity to showcase their products and services with high-definition images that are vibrant and detailed. This not only captures attention but can also help to better communicate the finer qualities of a product, logo or packaging.

Versatile & Mobile

The versatility of large-format prints lets businesses create custom designs that are tailored to their specific requirements. This allows them to promote their brand in a unique, captivating way, ensuring their message stands out. Additionally, it provides an excellent mobile backdrop for customers to take pictures in front of, which they can then share on social media, raising brand awareness and generating more buzz for the business.

How US Signcrafters Can Help

At US Signcrafters, we understand the importance of creating a visually appealing environment that effectively communicates your brand message to your customers. That’s why we take a collaborative approach to designing and creating large-format prints for commercial spaces. From the initial client consultation to the final installation, we work closely with our clients every step of the way to ensure their vision is fully realized. 

Our team of expert designers and technicians are dedicated to providing the highest level of customer service and quality craftsmanship to help our clients achieve their marketing objectives. Whether you need a custom wall mural, window graphics or trade show displays, US Signcrafters has the expertise and resources to bring your brand to life. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help!

Employee Spotlight

How did you enter the sign industry?

My brother was previous president of the company. I was in the Navy, I came home and was going to school. He got me started here part time. I had an electrical background in the Navy as an electrician. He got some started in it, and it’s as simple as that. The rest is history. I’ve been there ever since.

As an installer, what’s your approach when receiving jobs for a US Signcrafters client? 

When we get a job … as a company, we try to prioritize jobs, like the size of the jobs. The most important thing to me is: how does the customer need this? Is there a time frame they need it in? 

The thing I tell my guys is, “When you have somebody come and work at your house, how do you look at the people coming to your house to work on your refrigerator or washing machine? We need to be like that.” 

So we need to be courteous, we need to call ahead of time — we always have to look out for how they think. A lot of the time, we know what we’re doing but we have to be sensitive because the customer may not understand our methods. So I just try to always make sure the customer is in the loop of what we’re doing or explain why we’re doing something a certain way. It’ll look good at the end, the sign will be up, and you’ll be happy with it. 

A lot of jobs, the salesman will consult me in the midst of selling it. The salesman, they’re pretty savvy and can tell (when I would need to be consulted) but sometimes the jobs may require questions. The client may want it up on their building up high, but they might not realize there’s an issue on the other side of the wall. If it’s a unique installation, they’ll get me involved as early as they can just to see, “What are the obstacles we might run into that we’re not seeing?” And then I’ll get with them and do the best I can, or get my guys. Between all of us, we can figure out, “Is this a good spot for it?”

When the job is sold, a lot of the time before we install it, we go out and look to see what will be beneath the sign as far as, when we put it up, do we need areas cleared out? Do we need to drive on their grass? What are the physical obstacles we need to work around? I usually determine all of that. 

If something is up too high, we may need to rent equipment; that happens a lot. Something that’s outside the scope of our vehicles or crane. I try to think, “Hey, this job may be best if we do it on a weekend.” If it’s, perhaps, downtown South Bend, a lot less people down there. If there’s anything with the city, roads blocked off, etc., I kinda oversee all of that. Either me or one of my guys looks at that. 

Why do you enjoy working in the sign industry?

What I enjoy most is that every day is pretty different. I don’t really have an office. I’m in a truck — one day I may be at a hospital or a school, putting up signs. The next day, I may be 30 feet in the air, working on a big sign up in the air. Unfortunately some days, I might be digging a big hole, setting some steel for a sign. 

But it varies. It’s not as mundane as it may seem, like, “Oh, you just install signs.” Sometimes we’re fixing signs that we already put up. It changes a lot. 

I like being outside. Sometimes it’s too hot, sometimes it’s too cold, but I’ll take it. You’re out and about. I like to see things, and when we create things, you can see it. You can see what we do, how we progress. There’s a finished product, or, hey, we just fixed that — that kinda thing. It’s not glamorous but it’s just nice to see when you do a job. Bam! Look at that big sign! It works, the lights look good, that satisfaction. It’s fulfilling. 

Another one of my favorite things about working here is the people. The guys I work with, the people I work, they’re great; all of them are great. I love it, especially the two guys I work closest with, Dave Addington and Pete Wesaw. Those guys are tremendous; they’re smart, they have a sense of humor, they’re funny. We work well as a group. When you work with good people like that, you end up putting out good products and figuring things out. It helps a lot, ya know?

What’s your favorite type of sign and why?

We make signs sometimes called sandblasted signs from a piece of wood. They’re not lit up. They’re not electric. So, they’re kinda old-school, but a lot of times they look very nice. 

I do like some of the modern LED/scrolling-message signs. They look very good, where the client will be able to program them through the internet and put different messages on them. For a modern sign, those do look good, but I like the old, classic, non-illuminated signs with the old-fashioned look, carved out of wood with wood posts, that sorta thing. I like that.

What’s a sign from your childhood that’s seared into your memory?

Yeah! I can distinctly remember. We grew up in Rockford, Illinois, and I remember my dad, he got a job here in South Bend. He would work here during the week, he had an apartment, and he’d come back on the weekends for a while. We drove back and forth a lot between Rockford and South Bend before he finally got a house to move the family into — me and my brothers and my mom. 

So I remember going through Chicago a lot, and the lips (Magikist); I dunno know what it was even for.

There’s a story: One time, we were driving to Wisconsin, actually, through Chicago. We passed it, “Oh, there’s the lips, everybody! There’s the lips!” 

And my dad somehow takes a wrong turn. (He always tells this story. He goes, “You remember that?”). 

And we went by those lips again. 

And I’d say, “Hey, Dad, it’s the lips again!”

He’s like, “Shut up back there,” because he went the wrong way. And he’d turn around, and I kept saying, “There they are again!” (laughing)

But I remember that. That’s a sign that stuck with me and I never really thought about it before, but yeah, I remember that from being a little kid.

Which project would you consider a career highlight? 

We just redid Downtown Mishawaka — the police station, the ice rink, everything down there in downtown Mishawaka by the Mill — Ironworks all the way down to where the police station is and Mishawaka Utilities; all of that stuff looks pretty good. 

We did that. We put it with pretty much zero flaws. We got it all up on time, and it looks good. I guess I think about it because I drive by it so much on the way to work. And so, I don’t know, they were two separate projects but I kinda lump them into the same because we did them within the same time frame, and they were both for the City of Mishawaka. That whole area looks rejuvenated and nice, and I like to think we had a big role in that. 

Eschewing the sleek, more modern feel of illuminated channel signs, blade signs and electronic message centers, we also offer classic appeal in routed and sandblasted cedar signs. 

Cedar’s durability and resistance to decay make it a popular option for indoor and outdoor signs. Cedar naturally repels insects and can tolerate extreme weather conditions with minimal warping or fading. It also has natural tannins which make it exceptionally mildew-resistant, meaning it’s likely your sign won’t degrade from moisture and mold over time. 

The distinct grain of Western Red cedar plank gives cedar exceptional strength while also giving your end product an attractive rustic, stylish or traditional aesthetic, depending on your preferred finish and look. When primed, painted and sealed with a UV-protectant coat, cedar wood will last years outside with limited deterioration.

What Routing & Sandblasting Achieves

While creating routed and sandblasted cedar signage for customers, US Signcrafters employs several different techniques to craft our signature products. 

Routed signs are created by cutting letters into the wood using either a router or laser engraving machine; this technique produces three-dimensional letters that stand out from the background of the sign itself. 

Sandblasting uses pressurized air to hurl an abrasive material, such as silicon carbide particles, onto the surface of the wood; this procedure gives cedar a distinct texture by removing some of its upper layers and reveals some of its natural coloration beneath. Routing and sandblasting can be done on both indoor and outdoor-grade woods for long-lasting results.

Drawbacks to Using Cedar

While there are many benefits to using cedar as your primary sign material, there are also some potential drawbacks to weigh. Western Red cedar is a softer wood and does not handle direct sunlight very well if untreated, resulting in a bleached, silvery-grey finish. Prolonged exposure to UV light on untreated wood may cause fading or cracking over time (all of US Signcrafters’ cedar signs are sealed and treated). Also keep in mind that cedar can be more expensive than other types of lumber due to its high durability rating; however, this cost may be worth it in terms of longevity if your sign will be exposed to harsh weather conditions.

How US Signcrafters Can Help

Cedar signage can be a great addition to any commercial setting due to its timeless, classic appeal, injecting beauty, charm and quality into a business’s operation. US Signcrafters professionals can guide clients in deciding on the best cedar signage solution catered specifically towards their individual needs and preferences. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help!

Staff Spotlight

How did you enter the sign industry?
I wanted a change in the way I served the community. The sign industry helps me make a bigger impact by helping others brand and grow their business.

As a designer, what’s your approach when receiving jobs for a US Signcrafters client? 

My approach is to be open minded, creative and add value to every project. Every job is just as important to us as it is to the client. I want to form the type of partnership with our customers that has them coming back for future projects.

Why do you enjoy working in the sign industry?

The people. Working with the clients, customer service — that’s my favorite part. 

The part about the sign industry that speaks to me is working with the community. This puts me in a position to be a part of the bigger goal or “picture” of what every client is looking to achieve with their signage. Over the past three years, I have been blessed to meet so many people who are making huge impacts in the community and adding value to the community, which is amazing. 

What’s your favorite type of sign and why?

Monument signs, because you can be really creative. That is one of the first signs people see as they’re driving past a client’s location. So being able to be really creative and come up with something unique that nobody else really has is really fun, actually. 

What’s a sign from your childhood that’s seared into your memory?

That tile store (Factory Tile Inc. in Roseland) sticks out to me from when I was kid. I remember my parents taking me there and us getting some flooring from there when I was younger.

Another place that sticks out to me is the Tri-Way Drive-In Theatre in Plymouth. I know it’s funny because their sign is pretty rough but it really sticks out to me. We went there as kids. Such fond memories of going there with my parents and sitting under the stars watching movies.

Which project would you consider a career highlight? 

Definitely working with the hospitals. Beacon Health System has so many locations but the one that comes to mind is the Beacon Aquatics Center, which was really fun to work on. Also working with the Penn-Harris-Madison school district has been great. 

And the Beacon Goshen Outpatient Center’s interior project; I enjoy working with the Beacon staff to be able to have a flowing, directional signage package that makes it easy to navigate the campus not only for employees but for their patients as well. 

Types of Awnings

Awnings come in many different shapes, sizes and colors, as well as materials like aluminum, canvas, steel or wood. US Signcrafters customers can choose the material that best fits their needs and aesthetic goals for their location, with our staff available to offer insight and suggestions. Awnings are especially effective in urban environments where there could be competing signage vying for attention from passersby. The large size of an awning combined with its ability to attach directly to structure makes it ideal for high-traffic areas. It also provides increased visibility due to its higher height compared to other types of signs which may be at street level or lower heights. 

Awnings are also incredibly versatile when it comes to design options. Businesses can include logos, text, graphics and animation on custom awnings to help them pop even more. This allows businesses to really show off their brand in a distinct manner and draw more eyes to their building. 

Awning Materials

Material wise, there are various options available depending on what you need for your business’s specific application requirements. Canvas is often used due to its low cost and easy maintenance whereas metal designs tend towards higher durability due to their sturdiness but may potentially come with higher costs associated with installation and upkeep. Alternatively, wooden frames offer flexibility when designing intricate detailed signs but again can require elevated costs related to fabrication time and materials used. 

Our knowledgeable staff is at the ready to guide clients through a needs analysis to best understand their signage goals. When chosen correctly, a custom-made awning sign can notch your business’s marketing efforts up another level, establishing a visual connection to your brand with passersby, potential customers and, in rare cases, a global audience. 

Famous Awnings

One of the most iconic examples of an awning is the original CBGB sign, formerly located in New York City’s East Village neighborhood, which helped to incubate the careers of The Ramones, Talking Heads, Patti Smith, Television and more. The club was opened in 1973 by Hilly Kristal with an iconic red striped double decker bus canopy over the entrance way with bright, white letters reading “CBGB OMFUG” (Country Bluegrass Blues and Other Music For Uplifting Gormandizers) beneath it. 

This instantly recognizable sign was seen around the world on all sorts of merchandise celebrating CBGB’s status as one of America’s first punk music clubs and helped set the standard for how effective an awning sign can be when done right. The shuttered The Viper Room in Los Angeles, a longtime celebrity hangout, and Nathan’s Hot Dogs have also successfully used awnings to define the businesses’ outfacing character.

Awnings are more than just practical tools; they’re stylish statement pieces that help businesses stand out amongst the crowd. Whether you’re seeking grandiose outdoor advertising or subtle yet distinct décor changes, US Signcrafters can help see your vision through with custom-made, professionally installed and designed awnings. With ever-increasing competition between retailers and service providers, it’s vital customers are reminded why they should choose you instead of your competitors. Contact US Signcrafters today to learn more about how we can assist you in standing out!

Staff Spotlight

How did you enter the sign industry? 

My mom’s husband’s actually been doing this stuff for 20-plus years (as an installer), I want to say. An opportunity presented itself, so I stepped in and took a shot. 

As a fabricator, what’s your approach when receiving designs for a US Signcrafters client? 

Basically, I just get a blueprint and I’ll go over the blueprint, figure out dimensions, figure out what materials I’m going to need, make any purchase orders for any material we may not have in stock because it may be a special order or something. Once I get that sorted, I start building.

Why do you enjoy working in the sign industry?

I don’t like the monotony of having the same thing in front of me every single day. This a challenge every day, something different. I learn stuff just from the process because every sign is different, every canopy is different. It’s a very wide open industry, I’d say. 

What’s your favorite type of sign and why?

Oh, I don’t know. Particularly, I like to design steel structures. A couple in particular, we built an arch for the town of Argus. I’ve got a couple on my bench right now for a local baseball field; they’re basically a pillar at each end with an arch sign that runs between it. There’s just a lot more to how you’re going to build it, how you’re going to keep everything square. It’s just more challenging than your typical sign, which is pretty simple, pretty straightforward. 

These arches, a lot of the steelwork is a little more complex and a little more brainwork to figure out what needs to happen.

What’s a sign from your childhood that’s seared into your memory?

Oh yeah, one in particular. I think it’s called Factory Tile, and it’s in Roseland, Indiana, just 10 miles from here, if that. It’s a neon sign, which I won’t say it’s obsolete, but it’s older technology for the sign industry. They just used a lot of facets of fabrication techniques and things like that. I feel like overall, it’s a very unique sign. I’d say if anyone’s ever seen it, it’s definitely going to stand out to anyone — in the sign industry or not. It’s very visually appealing and unique.

Which project would you consider a career highlight? 

To be honest, I’m fairly new to the sign business — about two years in. But I would say probably that arch for town of Argus; it showcases my skills as far as a fabricator.

There are plenty of reasons to work with a sign company, but here are seven of the most important ones:

There are plenty of reasons to work with a sign company, but here are seven of the most important ones:

1. Attention to detail – US Signcrafters will take the time to understand your specific needs and wants before starting on any project. We’ll ask questions about your business, your target market and what you hope to achieve with your signage. This attention to detail ensures the finished product is exactly what you’re looking for.

2. Professionalism – Working with a sign company is like having an extension of your own marketing team. We’re professionals who understand the ins and outs of signage and can provide valuable insights into what works best for businesses like yours, including appropriate sign styles and ideal placement for maximum results — a well-designed sign can do wonders for your curb appeal, making your business more inviting and enticing to potential customers.

A good sign should also be visible from a distance, day or night. This is vital for businesses that are located on busy streets or in high-traffic areas. If potential customers can’t see your sign, they won’t know you’re there!

3. Quality – When you work with a sign company, you can be confident that you’re getting high-quality products that will last for years to come. Signage is a long-term investment; our staff can help you choose appropriate materials and designs that will stand the test of time.

4. Creativity – A effective sign company will bring creativity and innovation to every project they work on. US Signcrafters pushes the boundaries of what’s possible to create unique solutions that get results. Whether you need environmental graphics, vehicle wraps or digital signage, we have a fit that’s right for you.

While we offer a wide range of independent services, we often collaborate with construction companies and their clients in creating effective signage and branding solutions — on time and on budget. By delivering eye-catching and memorable products, US Signcrafters has cultivated longstanding relationships with commercial builders and contractors.

5. Experience – We have a proven track record of success. For more than 30 years, we’ve been helping businesses stand out from their competition with eye-catching visuals that make a lasting impression. Our team of experienced professionals will work closely with you to understand your unique needs and develop a custom solution that meets your specific goals. We also know building code and understand the legal aspects of signage; applying this knowledge to projects helps to mitigate potential headaches for clients.

6. Cost-effective – A lot of business owners believe working with a sign company is going to be expensive, but that’s not necessarily true. In fact, we pride ourselves on offering competitive pricing without compromising quality or service. We’ll work with you to tailor a project that fits your budget and meets your needs.

7. Turnkey solution – When you work with US Signcrafters, you don’t have to worry about the minutia – we’ll capable of handling the details from start to finish. That includes designing, manufacturing, delivering and installing your new signs.Your satisfaction is our top priority, and the job isn’t complete until you’re pleased with the final product. We also offer maintenance and repair services to ensure your investment is preserved.

U..S Signcrafters is dedicated to helping businesses achieve better results through high-quality signage, graphics, and wraps that are professionally designed, installed and maintained. With over 25 years of experience, we are experts in brand imagery and have a proven track record of success. If you’re looking for banner printing or trade show displays, monument signs or vehicle wraps, we have the products and services you need to make your vision a reality. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your business achieve its goals!

Staff Spotlight

How did you enter the sign industry?

Just a series of always being able to get a job in this niche industry. So wherever I would travel, it was pretty easy. A sign company will usually take an experienced person, if you can bring some experience to the table. 

I went from working in the sign industry basically my whole life, learning how to do all the facets of the industry to being put into a position to have to become a sign broker on my own. And that transitioned into the ownership side of everything.

What’s your approach when consulting with a client who’s interested in working with US Signcrafters?

It’s kind of different for every client out there. We try to put ourselves in their shoes on what their wants and needs are, even down to what they can afford now and what they can’t afford now. Really just provide them with what we believe they need.

Why do you enjoy working in the sign industry?

You meet a lot of interesting people along the way — other business owners, people who are in a position to make decisions for companies. At the end of the day, you see the fulfillment side of things because these places need to be branded, they need signage. With many companies, we’re helping them get their whole design out the door, and once you see that implemented into everyday, driving-around type of situations, it gets pretty neat to see your work out there a lot of the places you go.

What’s your favorite type of sign and why?

My favorite type would be anything that’s never been done before. You have to think about how it’s going to built, transported, installed, serviced, its longevity. And just to do something different all the time is always fun because it hasn’t been done and you have to figure it out.

What’s a sign from your childhood that’s seared into your memory?

I don’t think there’s anything sign-related but I think as a young kid, taking wood shop class in middle school and metals class, and then having art classes, I think it came to a point with a profession that combined all of those factors. 

It’s a niche industry to where nobody is going to school to learn how to do sign work, but there are kids who go for construction or construction management. So it was neat to land into a profession that combined all those things, from the building of the birdhouse to building with metal — and artwork as more of your own design.

Which project would you consider a career highlight?

I guess just ending up where I ended up. Being a kid who just grew up in the industry wanting to learn everything.

There are a couple businesses I had wanted to get into the ownership side of but signs was never really one of them; there’s just too much — there still is too much. Some days it’s just not that fun.

But to just work here in town, with only two companies, I stuck my roots to one, and then becoming a sign broker really took off. After seven years of that, to end up at US Signcrafters, which is one of the larger companies in northern Indiana and the region, to be sitting here with a stake in ownership is pretty cool. 

Parts of a Gobo Projector

Gobo projectors are made up of three main components: the projector head, the gobo and the adapter.

The projector head is the part of the projector that creates the light projection. The gobo is a stencil that is placed inside the projector and blocks the light from passing through except for the image or text that is cut out of it.

The adapter is used to attach the gobo to the projector head. Gobos are typically made of metal, glass or plastic and can be either etched or engraved. They are inserted into a projector, which then shines the light through the gobo to create the projection.

Consider These Factors When Choosing a Gobo Projector

There are multiple factors to consider when choosing a gobo projector. The first is the size of the projection. The projector should be able to create a projection that is large enough to be seen by your audience. Will it be used indoors or outdoors? Is weather a factor? How much ambient light is present?

The type of gobo you choose is also important; some projects require more intricate designs than others. Additionally, you need to consider the brightness of the projector and make sure it’s suitable for your intended application. The surface material that’s projected upon will also be a key variable. 

Gobo projectors are an affordable and versatile way to add impact to your visuals, leaving a lasting impression on viewers. If you’re looking for an easy way to add visual interest to your next presentation or event, consider working with US Signcrafters to find a gobo projector fit for you. 

Staff Spotlight 

Why were you attracted to the sign industry?

That’s a good question. I’ve been in the industry 25 years. I started out working in the industry for the City of South Bend as a code enforcement official. I was offered a position with a national sign company, I found it interesting and that’s all she wrote.

What’s your approach when consulting with a client who’s interested in working with US Signcrafters?

I’m not a pushy individual. I like to work with people and help people realize their brand and the design that’s most advantageous for their company or their business. 

What do you enjoy about the industry?

I like to see the finished product. I like to see, ultimately, the final design implemented and in use. 

What’s your favorite type of sign and why?

I don’t think I have a favorite sign. I do have a fascination for landmark signs that are of a historic nature, that are old and restored. I get a kick out of working on the preservation commission (Mishawaka Historic Preservation Commission) and helping people maintain and preserve old buildings and homes. 

Can you recall a sign from your childhood that’s seared into your memory?

Not from my childhood, but definitely as an adult. There is a sign is South Bend that I had the pleasure of working on and really rescuing, making sure the sign was not demolished. And that was The Skillet restaurant in South Bend.

What happened is the State of Indiana came through and told these property owners they either had to relocate the sign, you know, farther back on the property, or take the sign down altogether because of a widening project. They were widening the right of way. 

I was contacted and I helped the property owner and the restaurant owner protect the sign by moving it back, and at the same time, the sign was restored by US Signcrafters.

Which project would you consider a career highlight?

A career highlight would have to be the “City of Elkhart” architectural focus wall at the Aquatics Center at Elkhart Health.

There are four main types of wayfinding signage: identification, directional, informational and regulatory. By using a combination of these four types of signage, businesses and organizations can help people find their way to their destination, identify important information or set behavioral expectations for visitors without any confusion. We’ll take a closer look at each type and discuss some principles for designing effective wayfinding signage systems.

Identification Signage

Identification signage is used to identify a specific location, such as a building or room. This type of signage typically includes the name and logo of the business or organization. Identification signage can  be indoors or outdoors and made from a variety of materials, including metal, plastic, wood and glass.

When choosing identification signage, it’s important to consider the environment in which it will be used. For example, outdoor signage needs to be weather-resistant and able to withstand wind, rain and sunlight. Indoor signage should be legible and easy to read. Identification signage can be an important part of any business or organization’s branding strategy. It can help customers find your location, and it can make your business or organization more recognizable.

The most popular type of identification signage is probably the metal sign, which is often seen on the front of businesses. Plastic signs are also commonly used and they come in a variety of colors and styles. Wood signs are less common, but they can be very elegant and add a touch of class or nostalgia to any business. Glass signs are becoming more popular, as they offer a sleek and stylish look. 

No matter what type of identification signage you choose, it is important to make sure that it is visible and legible. After all, the whole point of identification signage is to help people find their way!

Directional Signage

Directional signage is any type of sign that provides information about how to get to a specific destination or helps people orient themselves in an unfamiliar environment. This type of signage can include arrows, maps and instructions. Directional signs are typically found in public places, such as airports, schools and hospitals. They’re also commonly used in private businesses, such as office buildings and retail stores. 

Directional signage is an essential part of any business’s customer service, as it can help to keep visitors safe and reduce the risk of accidents.

Directional signs can be used to provide information about emergency exits, evacuation routes and other important locations.

Directional signage can also help businesses to save money by reducing the need for customer assistance. When directional signage is used correctly, it can be an extremely effective tool for businesses and organizations.

Informational Signage

Informational signage plays an important role in our lives, providing us with essential information about the world around us. Informational signage is a type of sign that provides general information about an area. This can include the hours of operation, the facilities that are available, or other important information.

Informational signage is a common way to communicate with people who are visiting an area for the first time, as it can help them to orient themselves and make sure that they are aware of the rules and regulations. In addition, informational signage can be a helpful way to promote safety, as it can provide information about potential hazards or emergency procedures. 

In many cases, informational signage is the only way we have of receiving crucial information about our surroundings. For example, imagine if there were no street signs or traffic lights. Drivers would be constantly guessing which way to turn, and accidents would be far more common. Similarly, without informational signage, visitors to a museum would have no way of understanding the exhibits they are seeing. In this way, informational signage is an essential part of our everyday lives.

When designing informational signage, it is important to make sure that the signs are clear and easy to understand. The use of symbols and simple language can be very effective in conveying information quickly and effectively.

Regulatory Signage

Regulatory signage is an important part of our built environment, helping to ensure people follow the rules and regulations that have been put in place for their safety and well-being. Regulatory signage can be found in a variety of locations, from public parks to office buildings, and they come in a wide range of forms, from simple printed signs to complicated electronic displays. 

In many cases, regulatory signage is required by law, and failure to comply with the signs can result in penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment. For example, all businesses in the United States are required to post signs informing employees and customers about smoking rules and regulations. However, even when regulatory signage is not legally required, it can still be very effective in influencing people’s behavior.

Regulatory signage can also be used to encourage certain behaviors. For example, many schools post signs asking students to turn off their cellphones during class. 

By providing clear information about the consequences of breaking the rules, regulatory signage can help to deter people from engaging in activities that could be harmful to themselves or others.

Design Principles of Wayfinding Signage

There are several design principles that can be used to create effective wayfinding signage. First, the signs should be legible and visible from a distance. They should also be consistent in style, so that viewers can easily identify them as part of a cohesive system.

Additionally, the signs should provide clear and concise directions, using simple language that can be understood by everyone. Signs should be placed in strategic locations, so that viewers can easily find their way to their destination. 

Keep in mind these four design principles of wayfinding signage when planning: contrast, repetition, alignment and proximity. 

Contrast

Contrast is vital for wayfinding signage because it helps the sign stand out from its surroundings and be easily noticed by people who are looking for it. For example, using a light color on a dark background or vice versa will make the sign more visible. 

Repetition

Repetition helps people remember where they saw the sign and how to get back to it if they need to. For example, if all of the signs in a building use the same color scheme, it will be easier for people to remember where they saw a particular sign. 

Alignment

Alignment is necessary in wayfinding signage because it helps to create a sense of order and hierarchy. For example, if all of the signs in a building are aligned with each other, it will be clear which signs are more important and which ones are less important. 

Proximity

Proximity assists in grouping related information together. For example, if all of the signs in a building are placed close to each other, it will be clear that they are related and people will be able to find them more easily.

By following these principles, you can create wayfinding signage that is effective and easy to understand.

US Signcrafters has 28 years of value, innovation, communication and experience to draw upon when constructing wayfinding signage for our local, national and international clients. Contact us today with your questions or to learn more.

Staff Spotlight

How long have you been in the sign industry?

“I’ve been doing this pretty much all of my adult life. Somewhere around the neighborhood of 35 years now. One morning, I woke and found out I was gonna be a dad and I needed to have a job. So, I got a job in the signage industry that very day and I haven’t looked back.”  

What does your position at US Signcrafters entail? 

“I do sales work and project development and project management. When a client comes in and says they need a sign, sometimes they do need a sign, sometimes they need something else, or they don’t know really know what they want. I serve as a consultant to help people realize what they can have in three dimensions in the real world, I guess you could say. 

I try to give clients the best advice that will advance their brand and their brand exposure out in the world.”

What do you enjoy about the industry?

“The one thing I hate is to be bored, and in the signage industry, everything is so different, it’s hard to get bored. Or at least it doesn’t happen that often in my job. There’s always something else to do, something different to do, to develop. 

Of course, people are different. Relating to different people in the world is a challenge sometimes, so relating to the different personality types — everything works together to keep me from being bored, which is the number-one priority in my work life, I guess.”

Can you recall a sign from your childhood that’s seared into your memory?

“There were two moments when I was going to college that proved to be prophetic to my future life. One of them was, I was watching a movie on Victor Vasarely, who’s a pop artist who gained famed in the early ‘70s with those hard-edged paintings of acrylic designs and optical illusions. Some people call it Pop Art — it was very geometric work.

I was watching this movie in art history class one 8 o’clock morning; funny I should make it to that class because I didn’t a lot of times. 

But anyways, the movie was about Victor Vasarely and his work, and basically he had an old round-barn studio with his office in the cupelo at the top of this barn. The way that he would work is he had a desk where he would sketch the designs for his painting onto a piece a paper. He would almost do a Paint-By-Numbers thing where he would fill in voids with little numbers so that people would know which color to paint the voids.

He then opened this trap door and threw his paper down to his interns, who, in turn, would paint the paintings and he would sign his name to these paintings. I thought to myself, ‘Oh, dear God, I hope I don’t grow up to be like that because I was to be a fine artist, and my hands will be on every painting.’

And of course, that’s exactly what I grew up to be. I direct the artists. I direct the production people as to what they do. And as it turns out, I grew up to be Victor Vasarely.” 

Which project would you consider a career highlight?

“My favorite project happened a couple of years ago at Beacon Health and Fitness in Elkhart. At the aquatic center, there’s a huge room where all the exercise equipment is setup; it’s basically a fitness center for Beacon Health members. And there’s a huge, I dunno, 150-foot long by 30-foot tall wall in there, and the designers in Beacon came up with a design that they wanted to reproduce on this wall. 

There was a bunch of triangles with five or six different colors. The triangle motif had shown up in several places around the building, so they were carrying that through with this huge wall graphic in their exercise room. 

I took a look at this, and it was very large wall graphic. So, I started in on the project management phase — what was going to be done, how much things were going to cost. I did a cost analysis for the project in vinyl, and it came out to an amount that was pretty reasonable. But I thought to myself, ‘This could look really special if we did something else.’ 

I talked the client into considering doing this on a three-dimensional basis with varying thicknesses of a plastic triangle that would then indeed be painted the five or six different colors. With the depth on the wall, I thought it would really add something to this project. 

When the pricing came in, it was almost seven times higher than the cost for the vinyl, but I thought it was a really good idea. Lo and behold, it was a great surprise to me when decided it was worth the money to invest in it, just to see what happened, I guess, because nothing like this had ever been done for Beacon before. 

We had two crews. I think there were five guys who worked on it for several days. It was very complicated because there 160-some triangles that had to be placed perfectly in relation to the other triangles. Everything had to work just right, and, in fact, we did it right on the first try. It just came out perfectly. When you stand back and look at this thing, it gives the resemblance of water. It literally shimmers on the wall. It’s a fantastic piece, and I’m really proud of it.

A woman named Kelly Luna, from the marketing department at Beacon, had designed this thing, and I had pulled it off for her. That was my favorite piece.” 

Also known as internally illuminated signs (a channel letter is any letter, number or character used in a sign), illuminated channel signs differ from other types as each letter is separate from the others.

Vivid light radiates through the plastic channel letter face or it can be backlit, sometimes called halo-lit or a back channel sign. The open-face style features an exposed front where the lighting element can be seen; think industrial chic or retro feels. These durable, long-lasting signs are extremely attention-grabbing and capable of attracting eyeballs to establishments and companies.

They can be a cost-effective, energy-saving option as illuminated channel signs often include LED diodes, with neon as a common, more expensive alternative. LEDs run at a lower voltage than other light sources, resulting in a cooler sign interior.

Increased Visibility

Illuminated channel signs are highly visible, which makes them perfect for businesses aiming to cut through the noise of neighboring signage or real estate.

Pulling eyes of passersby and motorists, the sign can have a different look during the day than it does when illuminated at night and be built to be the unique shape of a customer’s logo; this is not the case with a traditional flat panel or sign cabinet. With an illuminated sign and augmented curb appeal, your business will be sure to get noticed by potential customers.

Improved Branding

Illuminated channel signs can help improve branding efforts by increasing awareness of a business. With a well-designed illuminated sign, you can effectively promote your brand and foster a positive image for your company.

Anytime you can build a sign that is not a cookie-cutter template, this will inherently be a more valuable asset to a storefront, strengthening a connection between the public and brand aspects, such as logo or company color scheme.

Enhanced Marketing

Illuminated channel signs can also help improve your marketing efforts by providing a platform for advertising your products and services. With an illuminated sign, you can easily promote your business and reach a wider audience.

Illuminated channel signs are an excellent investment for any business looking to improve its profile and marketing efforts.

US Signcrafters has 28 years of value, innovation, communication and experience to draw upon when constructing custom illuminated channel signs for our local, national and international clients. Contact us today.

Staff Spotlight

How long have you been in the sign industry?

I’ve been in the sign industry since 2014 and have been with US Signcrafters since 2017.

What’s your approach when consulting with a client who’s interested in working with US Signcrafters?

Typically, I try to see what we’re working with, first of all. Every building, every front yard area, every property is going to be a little bit different, so there’s not necessarily always going to be a cookie-cutter solution.

We’ll usually get a call in. I’ll try to schedule an in-person site visit, and that site visit really helps tell the story of what we’re doing there. Right away, I’m seeing if there are challenges, ‘Hey, this is blocking our sight lines,’ or there might be a downspout right where a sign would go. So, I’m taking photos and measuring space available and trying to find the best location for a sign and fitting it appropriately. The photos I take while on site are then used to put together renderings, where we’re able to show clients what the sign would look like at their location.

What do you enjoy about the industry?

I enjoy problem-solving and finding ideal solutions for our customers. Each sign is custom-built to best suit the storefront or road frontage the sign is placed on. Finding the right size, color combination, lighting style, all while adhering to brand standards, local zoning regulations and being budget-conscious — it’s like solving a unique puzzle that you get to point to and be proud of when driving by and say ‘Hey, we built that.’

What’s your favorite type of sign?

I enjoy doing a nice monument sign. Just by nature, this is put right by an entrance and put along a main road where it will be easily visible when driving by. Often times, we are doing a monument sign for an institution that has been in place for a long time and plans to be a key part of the community for years to come. When designing a new monument sign, we’re trying to complement the existing building, while also implementing the organization’s branding.

Can you recall a sign from your childhood that’s seared into your memory?

There’s a couple. The easy answer is McDonald’s, and every kid can relate to that one, where you see the arches and you’re begging Mom and Dad, ‘Hey, can we stop and get some french fries? Can I get a Happy Meal?’ And, you know, what do parents say? ‘No, we have food at home.’ That’s the easy response and maybe a copout.

The one that’s unique, and it’s not necessarily a sign, but I remember — and I don’t remember where this was — but somewhere in Chicago suburbs, before we moved to Indiana as a family … in front of a VFW, there was a big tank, and I remember just driving past and thinking that was the coolest thing, like a World War II tank. That’s a unique thing you can do. It’s really the same purpose as a sign: it’s grabbing your attention, it’s unique and letting people know a little bit of who you are.

Which project would you consider a career highlight?

Marian High School’s campuswide sign program featuring wayfinding directional signs, a refurbished monument sign and main identification signs. This sign package gave the campus a unified feel highlighting their updated shield logo and school motto, ‘Learn. Serve. Lead.’