class="tag"Posts Tagged ‘Design’
No Comments Client Spotlight – Cambridge Pallet Ltd. #StepUpYourSignage with Business Signs
Signs of Good Things To Come
Last year Cambridge Pallet Ltd. collaborated with Sign Depot on a new reception sign. You can read about the process at https://sign-depot.on.ca/collaborative-sign-design-cambridge-pallet. This also signified the commitment of a new ownership team that had recently been implemented and lots of changes to way the company operates including automation processes to make their workshop floor more efficient.
In preparation of Earth Day we visited the Cambridge Pallet Ltd. industrial workspace to learn about their Repair, Reuse, Recycle process.
During the tour we could see how the blue wooden pallets became the inspiration for their reception sign, which greets you as enter the building. Each of the pallets pictured above make their way through a system so that they can be sorted, repaired and painted in preparation to be shipped to the next user. This thriving business is located close to the highway to make it accessible for transportation and logistics purposes. Part of their mission is to be
Always acting with integrity and respect for the community and the environment
which is why we were so interested in seeing their facility and learning more about what they do. Because they make it a priority to minimize waste, conserve resources and protect the environment we think they will continue to have a very busy production line and become a leader in their industry.
Signs That Tell A Story
Does your business sign match your brand? Perhaps,just like Cambridge Pallet, your sign tells the story of your business. If your signs do not match your company and your brand, then we are here to help. We can assist with integrating your company story into your business signs which will elevate brand awareness for your business. Visit our CONTACT US page to connect with our expert sign designers.
Pantone Gets Lively as it Introduces Living Coral as the 2019 Colour of the Year
Living Coral in Living Colour
In a stark contrast from last year’s Ultra Violet, this year Pantone has chosen Living Coral as their 2019 Colour of the Year. They describe it as
An animating and life-affirming coral hue with a golden undertone that energizes and enlivens with a softer edge
The video above shows how well it can flow into living world under the sea.
They go on to say
PANTONE Living Coral is evocative of how coral reefs provide shelter to a diverse kaleidoscope of color
This makes the colour easy to implement into colour schemes and designs. If you are looking to mix this trend into your branding, then signage is a great place to start. As mentioned in our earlier post, 2019 will be the year to #StepUpYourSignage and choosing this lively colour is great way to refresh your brand in the coming year. Here at The Sign Depot we are thinking of it as a mix of 2012’s Tangerine Tango and 2015’s Marsala. This makes Living Coral the perfect cross section of orange tones to add vibrancy to your signage.
Ways To Add Living Coral To Your Signage Mix
There are two ways to go about adding new colours to your signs. You can either start subtle by changing some of your window graphics, vehicle decals and/or A-frame signs then changing the rest as you see fit, or you can be bold and rebrand your company signs all at once. The first choice makes for a smooth transition, while the second choice makes a big impact. When you decide the choice that best suits your business we are hear to help. All it takes is a visit to our CONTACT US page to connect with one of our sign experts. They can provide you with a free quote and get your company on trend for the upcoming year. Want to know what else we think is trending? Follow our Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest feeds to find out.
2019 Will Be The Year to #StepUpYourSignage
Start Planning For 2019 Now
One month from now we will already be into 2019 which makes it the best time to start planning your signage for the new year. The City of Kitchener has already posted that their sign permit regulations will change effective January 1, 2019 so you will want to get your sign permit application in within the next few weeks in order to adhere to today’s standards. We think this makes it a perfect time to #StepUpYourSignage. Our expert sign designers and sign fabricators are here to help you through the process. Whether you need interior wayfinding signs or exterior business signage we can help with sign permits, sign design and all of your OOH advertising.
What’s The Buzz Around OOH Advertising
The term OOH Advertising has had quite the buzz recently. The meaning of OOH advertising is Out of Home Advertising. In other words it is advertising that reaches people after they leave their houses each day. Signs play a big role in the OOH advertising mix. They are a critical part of your business branding and are a necessary component of your marketing plan. In a recent article by THE DRUM it was mentioned that brands that chose to spend 15% of their marketing budget on OOH advertising had a significant increase in their social media channels and improved brand trust.
Crafting unique signs that leave a lasting impression is what The Sign Depot is known for. We can create memorable signs that will keep your brand top of mind with potential clients. Your exterior business sign serves as a 24 hour advertisement for your establishment and is often the public’s first impression of your company.
Start 2019 Off Right
The best way to start off 2019 right is to visit our CONTACT US page and let our expert sign-makers know that you want to STEP UP YOUR SIGNAGE with a custom sign from The Sign Depot in 2019!
DIY Backyard Games – Great Ideas For Your Cottage or Cabin
Crafty Ideas For Your Cottage / Cabin Life
Here at The Sign Depot we have become fast fans of Amy Poehler and Nick Offerman’s Making It competition TV show. Each week the show’s crafters, known as the makers, take on challenges to create unique items for each competition.
In essence, that is what our signmakers do here on a day to day basis when they are creating custom cottage signs and other unique structures. This show has inspired us to connect with some bloggers about their DIY projects that can add some family fun to your cottage, cabin or even your backyard. Below is a list of do it yourself backyard games that we think you will enjoy making and playing in the great outdoors.
DIY Backyard Games
DIY Nerf Target
See how to tackle this target at https://the-gingerbread-house.co.uk/2018/04/23/how-to-make-a-diy-nerf-target
Outdoor Patio DIY Tic-Tac-Toe Game
Learn how to put this together at http://juliemeasures.com/outdoor-diy-tic-tac-toe
Ring Toss and other Carnival Themed Games
Check out this list of outdoor games like Ring Toss and Balloon Down at https://www.playpartyplan.com/fun-outdoor-games
More Outdoor Fun This Summer
For those that want to mix it up without too much crafting, check out these lists of outdoor games at https://www.onecrazymom.com/20-forgotten-summer-games-for-kids and https://www.playpartyplan.com/camping-games-for-kids-and-adults and https://thesoccermomblog.com/outdoor-games-for-kids
Even those with little ones can enjoy some outdoor activities with ideas from https://www.whatsupfagans.com/top-backyard-activities-for-four-year-olds
Many people can be put these games together with household items like tin cans, string, disposable cups, t-shirts, sidewalk chalk or even pool noodles to create obstacle courses.
We have been known to put together some fun games as well. We have made CUSTOM CORNHOLE BOARDS and even some BRANDED PLINKO GAMES for businesses.
Getting Crafty at The Cottage
Is there a backyard game you have made for your cottage, cabin or backyard? Post about it in the comments! We love to get inspired by our readers’ crafting abilities. Don’t have a unique backyard game? That’s okay. Try one of the ones above and tell us how it turned out. Let us know if you invited extended family or neighbours to try them out too. To ensure they find your cottage with ease you should consider an address/lot marker or a sandblasted cottage sign like the ones pictured below. To learn more visit our CONTACT US page and send us a note!
Collaborative Sign Design – Cambridge Pallet
From Networking To Collaboration
Networking has always been a focus for The Sign Depot. Through networking we build great business relationships within our community. This is how the Cambridge Pallet reception sign came about. Through connecting with Jorge Meneses we were able to refer business back and forth between our companies and learn more about our interests outside of our companies as well. In fact we are now committee members for Movember KW, swap vacation stories and assist each other with community involvement fundraising events. Because we have gotten to know each other well throughout the years, when it came to creating a sign for Cambridge Pallet, it became a collaborative effort.
Sharing Sign Design Ideas
Jorge had let us know that Cambridge Pallet was looking for an interior sign for their office area. He envisioned steel letters in the reception area. We suggested to take it one step further and have a replica wood pallet added to the sign design. These sign ideas were put together to create a sign that reflects their company and their brand. While this might not be the exact definition of collaborative design, we feel that this was a great way to work together to create a unique 3 dimensional sign.
Building A Pallet Sign
To create the pallet sign we began with MDF board, which is a great material for interior signage. It was cut and assembled to replicate a wood pallet.
It was then finished to match the colour they use for their pallets. After the paint finish was complete, the text portion was added to the sign project. The brushed metal letters were pin mounted to the sign to create dimension.
Once the sign was fully assembled, our installers placed in the reception area of Cambridge Pallet. Since its arrival both staff and clients have remarked with how much they like the new sign and that it is a great representation of the company.
Build A Sign Around Your Brand
Whether you connect with in person at networking events or online through our social channels, we want to collaborate with you to create a sign that reflects your company and brand. Visit our CONTACT US page to get the process started.
Custom Interior Signs That Create Brand Awareness
Interior Signs For Business
When it comes to selecting a sign design for your company’s interior signs it is very important that it conveys your business brand and serves as a constant reminder of what your company is known for.
Most established businesses have a welcoming reception sign that includes the company name and logo, but they often stop with the branding there. Your logo and company name should be on all of your wayfinding and office signage as well. Whether is marking a meeting room or a building directory, your business should be represented throughout the interior of the building. This elevates brand awareness about your company as it relays the message that you are a professional business that knows the importance of clear communication.
Types of Interior Signs
When it comes to choosing interior signs for you company it it best to consider all the signs you will require. Here is a list of the types of custom interior signs that your business may require.
- Reception Signs
- Directory Signs
- Wayfinding Signs
- Washroom Signs
- Office Door Signs
- Meeting Room Signs
- Window Decals
- Privacy Window Frosting
- Elevator Signs
- ADA / Accessibility Signage (IE Braille, Raised Lettering)
Find The Right Fit For Your Business
Once you have selected all the signs that you require, its time to consider what materials they should be fabricated from. Choosing to work with a custom sign maker means that you have several options. You have a variety of substrates to choose from. You can also pick 3 dimensional signs and lit signage. When you find the right fit for your business we would happy to chat with you about pricing. Visit our CONTACT US page to be connected to one of our expert sign-makers. Together we can create the right interior sign mix for your business.
Purple REIGNS Again With The Announcement Of Ultra Violet As The Pantone 2018 Colour Of The Year
Purple Reigns Supreme Once Again
Today Pantone has announced that its 2018 Colour of the Year is Ultra Violet. We think that the popularity of 2014’s purple hue Radiant Orchid and now with today’s announcement, that Purple Rain, oops I mean purple reigns the colour palette. As stated on the Pantone website,
Musical icons Prince, David Bowie, and Jimi Hendrix brought shades of Ultra Violet to the forefront of western pop culture as personal expressions of individuality.
With inspirations like this, be on the lookout for Ultra Violet popping up everywhere.
via GIPHYPerhaps even in 2018 artistic sign design projects. We are always looking ahead and this colour is sure to spark creativity with many in the design industry.
Trendspotting For 2018
As each new year begins so do new trends. Many follow trends in different industries. Some follow fashion trends, others follow tech trends and most of us follow food trends.
Here at The Sign Depot, we follow design trends, but we also like to create trends with our custom signs. When it comes to creating trends in the signage industry we always try to partner vintage looks with new tech or give sleek design an edgy look. There are always ways to incorporate signage into your brand strategy and with this bright bold colour trending, Ultra Violet and its complimentary colours can add new life to a dated look.
Now Is The Time To Start Building Buzz About Your Business
Being on trend also means that your company is creating buzz about the business. You want to be as standout in your industry and make yourself unique in the marketplace. Now is the time to put your 2018 marketing plan into action and start building buzz about your business. Get a jump on your competitors by connecting with us to discuss how we can help elevate your brand with custom signs.
Flexing Our Custom Sign Design Muscle At Fluxible
Fluxible 2017
We are thrilled to announce our involvement with this year’s Fluxible conference happening in Kitchener-Waterloo Ontario, Canada. Fluxible is Canada’s UX Festival and it brings those interested in the user experience fields together for a week long celebration. This year we noticed the theme of tech and design intersecting and we knew we needed to be there. In fact you can find us there in a few different ways. You can find us in person, on stage and through out the festival. All of these factors will contribute to our custom sign design theme we are creating with Fluxible this year.
The Sign Depot Enters Fluxible
Earlier this month we were announced as a sponsor for Fluxible via their twitter account.
Big thanks to @TheSignDepot for sponsoring #Fluxible2017. We couldn’t do this without your support! https://t.co/A3hldm3IrF pic.twitter.com/qkqiiWc5w8
— Fluxible (@Fluxible) September 4, 2017
As the custom sign sponsor sponsor for this year’s event we will be creating a stage item as well as wayfinding signs throughout the event spaces. We are collaborating with Fluxible by using their designs and logo to create signs that are highly visible for the conference.
Not only will be represented at Fluxible through sponsorship, our own Owner/President, Peter Moir will be the presenter at the BROWN BAG LUNCH that is happening at Noon on Wednesday September 20, 2017.
This brown bag lunch features Peter Moir of The Sign Depot, a local fabricator of high-end signage whose work can be found across North America. Peter will talk about how sign design impacts our experience of public spaces.
Looking to learn a little more about Peter before the event? Read up on his latest adventure at THE SIGN DEPOT – @ THE TOP OF CANADA and see what was happening in this pic.
To get all the info on Fluxible: Canada’s UX Festival visit the links below
Website: http://www.fluxible.ca
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Fluxible
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fluxibleconf
and the link to Peter’s talk is can be found at https://www.meetup.com/Fluxible/events/242396280
We’re looking forward to seeing how everyone will be flexing their design muscles at Fluxible. Be sure to connect with us while you are there! We always want to be part of a “connected” community.
How Custom Sign Design Can Be Defined By Lagom
What Is Lagom?
Last time we spoke of trends, the word HYGGE was a hot topic. Nowadays the LAGOM is on the tip of every tastemaker’s tongue. In fact it’s in Vogue – literally. Not sure what lagom is? The concept of lagom is similar to the old adage “everything in moderation”. By definition the same rings true when it comes to custom sign design.
What Does Lagom Have To Do With Sign Design?
Your sign should show your business offerings but not overwhelm potential clients. Just like lagom your sign needs just the right amount of contact information combined with your branding. You want your text, choice of font and logo to compliment your brand. When all three of these design elements work together you have a winning combination for your sign design.
By keeping the text on your sign simple and concise, people are able to focus in on your specialty. Choosing a clear font ensures your sign is legible from a variety of distances. Having a well designed logo gives everyone an idea what to expect from your company.
Alternatively, if you try to put too much messaging on your sign, use too many fonts and an oversized logo, then it looks too busy and people will find it confusing. You want your sign to be eye-catching but not an eye sore.
Find The Right Fit
So are signs HYGGE or LAGOM? We think they can be a combination of both. Just the right amount of information designed to add warmth to your establishment.
By putting these concepts together in one sign design creates a synergy that can elevate your brand in the marketplace, giving your company a high level of visibility and potentially attracting new customers to your business. The expert sign designers here at The Sign Depot are here to help you find the right fit for your business. Visit our CONTACT US page to speak with one of them. To keep up with signage trends stay tuned to this blog.
The Sign Depot Revamps the Look of Restaurant Signs with Their Rust Finish Signage
Over the years, The Sign Depot has perfected the art of rust finishing signs using a custom finishing process. It is a multi-step paint finish that requires steady hand when it comes to achieving the distressed look required for each custom sign. This trend has since caught fire in the restaurant industry, changing the sleek chrome look to create more of a vintage look in many establishments. At a time where businesses are constantly looking to find ways to be unique, the distressed look rust finish trend gives restaurants a one of kind sign that helps them stand out from others in their industry. By using their signage as a focal point for the area, it attracts both current and potential customers to their locale and it serves as a 24 hour advertisement for their business. Below are four examples of restaurant signs that were given a distressed look by The Sign Depot.
OAK + CRU Social Kitchen and Wine Bar
The sign for Kelowna British Columbia’s OAK + CRU Social Kitchen and Wine Bar is a mix of modern and vintage all in one sign. The juxtaposition between two eras in one sign was crafted through a mix of metal, rust and LEDs. It was created as welded metal sign box with cut outs for the letters. The sign was then fit for lit LEDs to light up the cut out areas. It was then given an all over rust finish creating a unique exterior showpiece for the local hot spot.
Belfast Love Public House
Belfast Love Public House in Toronto Ontario is branded as “A Proper Pub” and in turn required signage that reflected that statement. As a new restaurant in Toronto they knew they would have to get lots of eyes on their building and establish themselves as the top of mind place to be for traditional pub fare. This signage project required open can letters with neon tubing along with a paint and distressed finish to achieve authentic the look that the restaurant was going for. In this case the rust finish was strategically placed on the lit sign to create a patina look. For this project an exterior sign for the front entrance and a projection sign were created to catch the attention of both vehicle and foot traffic. The result is pub signage that looks like it’s straight out of Ireland.
Sociable Kitchen + Tavern
Retro is all the rage at Sociable Kitchen + Tavern’s Brantford Ontario location. So much so that their sign is actually a retrofit of sign that was already on the property. This multidimensional sign has several components to recreate the look of a vintage marquee sign. This project included refinishing the sign base to represent the look of an aged tin sign, LEDs faced with acrylic ovals to represent lit light bulbs, high density urethane that was CNC router cut to match the texture of a sea can shipping container, individual lit can letters for the restaurant name and a changeable message board to interact with their local clientele. The rust finish was the tie in that brought all of these items together. It created the retro look that Sociable Kitchen + Tavern wanted to achieve. Once combined, all these sign elements created a past meets present upcylced pylon sign that has quickly turned into a local landmark for the City of Brantford Ontario.
Hearthstone Kitchen & Cellar
In Las Vegas Nevada, the best way to stand out from all the flashing lights is to come up with something completely different. In this case, the Red Rock Casino Resort & Spa wanted to replicate the look of a salvaged Gaslight Sign for their Hearthstone Kitchen & Cellar restaurant. In order to recreate this look a three dimensional metal sign with can letters for the word Hearthstone was crafted. The letters were then halo lit with LEDs to give off a backlit glow to best replicate the hazy lighting of gaslight sign. Below the restaurant name, individual push through clear acrylic letters with the words Kitchen & Cellar were attached to let additional light from the LEDs shine through. After all of those components were in place, the distressed rust finish was applied to the sign base as well as the text and graphics on the sign. The addition of the rust finished suggested that the sign could have been a salvaged sign from the Las Vegas sign graveyard.
As you can see from the images above, the rust finish on each sign is used differently depending on the style each restaurant wants to convey to the public. Finding the best fit for each establishment is something that the expert sign-makers at The Sign Depot specialize in. They can transform signage from being brand new to a very vintage look with various sign making techniques and paint finishes. By choosing the distressed rust finish for these restaurants signs, it took bespoke signage to the next level. As a result of this, it makes each of the restaurant signs stand out showpieces that attract clientele to their establishments. These one of a kind signs show the public that they are in for a unique experience by choosing to dine there.
The Sign Depot strives to not only be “on trend” in the sign industry but also creates trends with their custom crafted signage. As they say at The Sign Depot “A Good Sign Is The Sign Of A Good Business”
To learn more about these and other sign projects by The Sign Depot, be sure to visit the following links
Website: https://sign-depot.on.ca
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheSignDepot
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TheSignDepot
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/TheSignDepot
or visit our CONTACT US page for custom quote.
