Custom Plastic Signs: Top 5 Powerful Solutions 2024
Understanding Custom Plastic Signs
Custom plastic signs offer a blend of durability and versatility, making them a popular choice for both indoor and outdoor applications. Let’s explore the types of plastics used and how these signs can withstand various environmental conditions.
Types of Plastic Used
When it comes to custom plastic signs, three main types of plastic are commonly used:
-
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): Known for its lightweight and durable nature, PVC is a top choice for indoor and outdoor signs. It’s weatherproof and can withstand exposure to sunlight and rain, making it ideal for various settings.
-
Polycarbonate: This type of plastic is incredibly tough and resistant to impact. Polycarbonate signs are perfect for areas prone to harsh weather conditions or potential physical damage. They also offer excellent UV resistance, ensuring the sign’s colors remain vibrant over time.
-
Corrugated Plastic: Often used for temporary signs like real estate or political campaign signs, corrugated plastic is both economical and lightweight. While it’s not as durable as polycarbonate, it offers a good balance of cost and functionality for short-term use.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Use
Indoor Use: Plastic signs used indoors don’t face the same environmental challenges as outdoor ones, but they still need to be durable. PVC and polycarbonate are excellent choices for office signs, retail displays, and trade show booths. These materials maintain their appearance even with frequent handling and cleaning.
Outdoor Use: When signs are placed outdoors, they must withstand weather elements. Weatherproof plastics like polycarbonate and PVC are essential for longevity. Polycarbonate, in particular, is a great option for outdoor signs due to its high UV resistance, which prevents fading and extends the sign’s lifespan.
Cost-Effectiveness: One of the biggest advantages of using plastic for signage is its affordability. Compared to metal or wood, plastic signs are cheaper to produce while still offering excellent durability and customizability. This makes them a cost-effective solution for businesses looking to maximize their advertising budget.
In summary, choosing the right type of plastic for your custom sign depends on where and how you plan to use it. Whether indoors or out, custom plastic signs provide a versatile and durable option for your business needs.
Designing Your Custom Plastic Signs
Creating custom plastic signs involves more than just picking a material. It’s about crafting a design that reflects your brand and meets your specific needs. Let’s look at how you can choose the right design and explore various customization options.
Choosing the Right Design
Designing your sign starts with selecting the right template. Many businesses offer industry-specific templates to simplify the process. Whether you’re in real estate, retail, or events, these templates provide a solid starting point. They incorporate common design elements relevant to your field, ensuring your sign conveys the right message effectively.
If you have a unique vision, consider using a design upload feature. You can upload your own artwork or logo to create a one-of-a-kind sign. This option is perfect for businesses with specific branding guidelines or those who want to showcase their creativity.
Color options are another crucial aspect. With full-color printing capabilities, your sign can feature vibrant hues that grab attention. Use colors that align with your brand to maintain consistency across all marketing materials.
Customization Options
Once you have your design, it’s time to customize further. Shapes and sizes are essential considerations. From standard squares and rectangles to custom shapes, the possibilities are vast. Unique shapes can make your sign stand out even more.
-
Sizes: Choose from a range of sizes, from small 4” x 4” signs to large 48” x 96” displays. Consider the viewing distance and the amount of information you need to include when selecting the size.
-
Thickness: The thickness of your sign affects its durability and appearance. Thicker signs are more robust and can withstand rough handling or harsh weather conditions better than thinner ones.
-
Printed sides: Decide if you want your sign single-sided or double-sided. Double-sided signs are ideal for areas with two-way traffic, ensuring your message is seen from multiple angles.
Accessories like drilled holes or stands can improve the functionality of your sign. Drilled holes make it easy to mount your sign on walls or fences, while stands or easels provide a portable option for events or temporary displays.
Incorporating these design and customization options allows you to create a custom plastic sign that not only looks great but also serves its intended purpose effectively. Whether you need a sign for indoor use or one that can withstand the elements outside, the right design and customization will make all the difference.
Printing and Production Process
Creating custom plastic signs is more than just about design—it’s about ensuring high-quality production. Let’s explore the printing techniques and production timeline that transform your ideas into reality.
Printing Techniques
When it comes to printing, there are several methods to consider, each offering distinct advantages:
-
Digital Printing: This technique is ideal for full-color designs and smaller orders. It’s fast and cost-effective, making it perfect for custom signs with complex graphics or photos. Digital printing ensures sharp images and vibrant colors.
-
Screen Printing: Best for large batches of signs with simple designs. It offers excellent color saturation and durability, especially for outdoor signs. Screen printing is a traditional method that excels in producing bold, solid colors.
-
UV Printing: This modern technique uses ultraviolet light to cure the ink as it prints. It’s great for outdoor signs because it’s resistant to fading and weathering. UV printing provides a high level of detail and is ideal for signs that need to withstand harsh conditions.
For those seeking a more refined look, engraving is another option. Engraved signs offer a tactile quality and a professional appearance. They’re especially popular for office settings and can be used both indoors and outdoors.
Production Timeline
From order to delivery, the production timeline is a crucial factor to consider:
-
Order Processing: Once you’ve finalized your design, the order is processed. This usually involves a review to ensure everything meets your specifications and a proof for your approval. Custom items typically take 3 to 5 business days in production.
-
Printing and Production: Depending on the complexity of your design and the chosen printing technique, this phase can vary in duration. Digital printing often has a quicker turnaround compared to screen printing, which may take longer for large volumes.
-
Shipping and Delivery: After production, your signs are carefully packaged and shipped. Delivery times depend on your location and the shipping method selected. Some companies, like OneStop Northwest, offer expedited shipping options for urgent needs.
Customer reviews often highlight the quick turnaround and quality of signs delivered. For example, one review praised the speedy delivery from South Dakota to Massachusetts, arriving just five days after the order was placed.
In summary, the right printing technique and a clear understanding of the production timeline ensure that your custom plastic signs not only look great but also arrive on time. Whether you need signs for a one-time event or long-term use, knowing the process helps you plan effectively.
Next, we’ll explore best practices for using these signs to maximize their impact.
Best Practices for Using Custom Plastic Signs
Placement Tips
Custom plastic signs are versatile, but where you place them can significantly affect their impact. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your signs:
-
Mounting: Secure your signs to walls or sturdy surfaces using adhesive strips or screws. This method is ideal for permanent displays and provides stability.
-
Attaching to Poles: Use zip ties or clamps to attach signs to poles. This is a great option for outdoor settings where visibility from a distance is crucial, such as parking lots or along roadsides.
-
Propping on Easels: For temporary displays, such as events or trade shows, use easels. They’re easy to set up and relocate, ideal for signs that need to be portable.
Strategic placement ensures your message reaches the intended audience effectively. Consider foot traffic and sightlines when deciding where to position your signs.
Maintenance and Care
To keep your custom plastic signs looking fresh and vibrant, regular maintenance is key. Here’s how to care for them:
-
Cleaning: Use a soft cloth and mild soap to clean your signs. Avoid harsh chemicals, as they can damage the print and material. Regular cleaning prevents dirt buildup and keeps colors bright.
-
Storage: When not in use, store signs in a cool, dry place. Avoid stacking them under heavy objects to prevent bending or warping. Proper storage extends the lifespan of your signs.
-
Handling: Handle signs with care, especially during transport. If your signs are large, consider using protective sleeves or cases to prevent scratches or dents.
By following these care tips, your signs will maintain their quality and continue to serve your needs effectively. Proper maintenance not only preserves their appearance but also ensures they remain a valuable tool for your business or event.
Frequently Asked Questions about Custom Plastic Signs
What are the hard plastic signs called?
When it comes to hard plastic signs, corrugated plastic is a popular choice. Often referred to by the brand name Coroplast®, these signs are lightweight yet sturdy, making them ideal for both temporary and semi-permanent use. Corrugated plastic is made from polypropylene and features a fluted design, which adds strength without extra weight. This material is widely used for yard signs, political campaigns, and real estate postings due to its affordability and ease of installation.
What is the best plastic for outdoor signs?
For outdoor signs that need to withstand harsh weather conditions, polycarbonate is often considered the best option. Known for its durability and impact resistance, polycarbonate can handle everything from strong winds to heavy rain. Additionally, UV-coated options are available, which protect the sign from the sun’s harmful rays, preventing fading and extending its lifespan. This makes polycarbonate an excellent choice for long-term outdoor signage, such as business signs and informational displays.
How long do corrugated plastic signs last?
The lifespan of corrugated plastic signs can vary based on environmental factors and care. Under normal weather conditions, these signs typically last between 12 to 18 months. However, their longevity can be extended with proper maintenance and strategic placement. For instance, placing them in shaded areas can help prevent UV damage, while regular cleaning can keep them looking fresh. Despite being cost-effective and lightweight, corrugated plastic signs are remarkably durable, making them suitable for short-term outdoor advertising needs.
Conclusion
At OneStop Northwest, we understand that your business’s success relies on both digital and physical presence. That’s why we offer a comprehensive range of services that cater to all your business needs. From custom plastic signs to web design and beyond, we are here to support your growth and help you stand out.
Our custom plastic signs are a testament to our commitment to quality and innovation. We provide a variety of options custom to your specific requirements, whether you need signs for indoor settings or durable solutions for outdoor use. Our signs are not only visually appealing but also designed to withstand the elements, ensuring your message remains clear and impactful.
But our services don’t stop there. We also specialize in graphic design, corporate branding, marketing, and much more. Our team of experts works closely with you to create solutions that align with your brand identity and business goals. Whether you’re looking to improve your online presence or need assistance with payroll processing, we’ve got you covered.
By choosing OneStop Northwest, you’re not just selecting a service provider; you’re partnering with a dedicated team that is invested in your success. We take pride in changing your vision into reality, providing solutions that are both effective and efficient.
Ready to lift your business? Explore our comprehensive services and let us help you achieve your goals. With OneStop Northwest, your success is our priority. Let’s build something great together.
