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Call us at (805) 641-1387


The Complete Guide to Hanging Signs: Styles, Ideas & What to Know

If your business gets foot traffic, a hanging sign is one of the best ways to get noticed. These signs are designed to catch the eye of people walking by—and when done right, they make a strong first impression.

In this guide, we’ll break down what hanging signs are, how they differ from blade signs, and what options you have if you’re considering getting one custom-made.

Honey Cup Coffee House & Creamery hanging sign in Channel Islands Harbor in Oxnard, California.
Honey Cup Coffee House & Creamery hanging sign in Channel Islands Harbor in Oxnard, California.

What Is a Hanging Sign?

A hanging sign is a type of sign that sticks out from a wall or hangs down from a bracket, post, or ceiling. You’ll usually see them mounted perpendicular to a building, so they’re easy to spot from the sidewalk.

They work great in walkable areas like downtowns, shopping districts, and mixed-use centers.

They’re alsosuper versatile—good for storefronts, lobbies, events, and even directional signage.

Escape Luxury Salon & Day Spa hanging sign in Oxnard, California.
Escape Luxury Salon & Day Spa hanging sign in Oxnard, California.

Blade Sign vs. Hanging Sign: What’s the Difference?

People often use the terms interchangeably, and there’s definitely overlap. But here’s the breakdown:

Blade signs are typically rigid and mounted directly to a building. They don’t swing or move.

Hanging signs can include blade signs but also cover signs that hang from chains or brackets and may have some motion.

In short, all blade signs are hanging signs, but not all hanging signs are blade signs.

For example, a traditional carved wood sign that swings gently from a decorative bracket would be considered a hanging sign, while a fixed, double-sided panel mounted perpendicular to the wall fits the blade sign category.

Art & Soul Gallery in Santa Barbara's Art's District uses a hanging sign to complement their channel letters storefront sign. The two signs together is called a "Combo Sign."
Art & Soul Gallery in Santa Barbara’s Art’s District uses a hanging sign to complement their channel letters storefront sign. The two signs together is called a “Combo Sign.”

The 3 Types of Hanging Signs that Attract Foot Traffic

1 – Blade Signs

Blade signs are mounted directly to a building. These signs are double-sided and easy to spot from both directions on the sidewalk.

Mondo's Beach Break externally illuminated blade sign in Ventura, made by Dave's Signs.
Mondo’s Beach Break externally illuminated blade sign in Ventura, made by Dave’s Signs.

We built a custom wood blade sign for Mondo’s Beach Break in Ventura that speaks to the surf-and-taco crowd—fun, bold, and right on brand.

Shanghai Beer Garden Neon Blade sign in Ventura, CA, made by Dave's Signs.
Shanghai Beer Garden Neon Blade sign in Ventura, CA, made by Dave’s Signs.

Another great one: the neon blade sign for Shanghai Beer Garden —clean, bright, and impossible to miss at night. It glows 24/7 and pulls people in from across the street.

2 – Hanging Shop Signs

These signs usually hang from a decorative bracket and swing a bit in the breeze. They’re perfect for retail shops, boutiques, and cafes.

The small sign we made for Fleur de Rye in Ventura is simple and stylish. It fits the vibe and draws people in.

Fleur de Rye Hanging Sign in Ventura, California.
Fleur de Rye Hanging Sign in Ventura, California.

Storefronts in downtown are great places for hanging signs where there is a lot of pedestrian traffic.

For HunterDouglas in Westlake Village, we went with a clean, rectangular hanging logo sign—modern, polished, and complements the buildings aesthetic.

HunterDouglas hanging sign in Westlake Village, California.
HunterDouglas hanging sign in Westlake Village, California.

3 – Combo Signs

Pair a hanging sign with wall-mounted letters or a large storefront sign for more visibility. It’s a smart way to cover foot and vehicle traffic at the same time. This creates a layered visual experience that catches the eye from different angles and distances.

Example:

Gandolfo’s Deli in Oxnard uses both a blade sign and large channel letters. One grabs attention from the sidewalk, the other from the parking lot. Together, they work.

Gandolfo's New York Deli in Oxnard Combo Sign uses both a projecting blade sign and channel letters on the storefront.
Gandolfo’s New York Deli in Oxnard Combo Sign uses both a projecting blade sign and channel letters on the storefront.

Outdoor Hanging Signs

If your sign’s going outside, materials matter. Go with options that handle sun, wind, and rain—like treated wood, MDO and HDO panel, powder-coated metal, or UV-protected acrylic.

We’ll also help with placement, mounting hardware, and making sure it’s up to code.

Zen Massage Place outdoor hanging sign in Ventura uses MDO and is sandblasted to give it that 3D look.
Zen Massage Place outdoor hanging sign in Ventura uses MDO and is sandblasted to give it that 3D look.

Custom Hanging Signs: Built for Your Brand

Your sign should do more than just say your name—it should reflect your style.

We’ll help you choose:

The right shape, size, and materials — for example, a bold rectangular metal sign for a brewery or a soft-edged wooden sign for a spa.

Fonts, logos, and brand colors — matched to your existing identity or refreshed with a new look.

Optional lighting for better visibility — like LED edge lighting or gooseneck fixtures for evening visibility.

Whether you want something traditional, modern, or totally unique, we’ve got you covered.

BLO Hair Studio in Ventura uses a metal hanging sign. It gives that modern flaire of a salon.
BLO Hair Studio in Ventura uses a metal hanging sign. It gives that modern flaire of a salon.

Hanging Sign Ideas

Need inspiration? Here are a few popular styles:

Rustic wood signs for restaurants and wineries.

Modern acrylic for salons or offices.

Sleek metal signs for corporate offices, or upscale retail spaces

Hand-painted designs for artisan shops.

Illuminated signs for bars, restaurants, or shopping malls.

For more ideas, check out our Hanging Sign & Blade Sign Gallery.

Victoria Court in Santa Barbara is a blade sign that hangs and is also mounted to the wall. It uses halo-lit channel letters to illuminate the sign.
Victoria Court in Santa Barbara is a blade sign that hangs and is also mounted to the wall. It uses halo-lit channel letters to illuminate the sign.

Installing a Hanging Sign

Once your design is finalized, the next step is getting it up safely and in compliance.

Installing a hanging sign might seem straightforward—but there’s more to it than picking a bracket and drilling into the wall. You’ve got to think about the surface you’re mounting to, how much the sign weighs, whether it’s exposed to wind, and what your city requires for permits and placement.

That’s why most businesses leave this part to the pros.

At Dave’s Signs, we handle everything behind the scenes—site surveys, permits, hardware, and installation—so your sign isn’t just secure, it’s also up to code and built to last.

We know what local ordinances allow (and what they don’t), and we’ll make sure everything’s done right the first time.

Celadon House in Santa Barbara is a Combo Sign using a hanging blade sign and 3D aka dimensional letters on the storefront.
Celadon House in Santa Barbara is a Combo Sign using a hanging blade sign and 3D aka dimensional letters on the storefront.

Quick FAQs

Can hanging signs be double-sided?

Yes, hanging signs are usually double-sided, so they can be seen from both directions on a sidewalk or walkway.

What are the best materials for outdoor hanging signs?

The best materials for outdoor hanging signs include sealed wood, MDO (medium-density overlay), HDO (high-density overlay), powder-coated metal, and UV-resistant acrylic. These materials hold up well in sun, wind, and rain.

Are hanging signs good for indoor use?

Yes, hanging signs work great indoors, too. They’re often used for wayfinding, branding, or decor in offices, lobbies, and trade show booths.

How much do custom hanging signs cost?

The cost of a custom hanging sign depends on the size, material, and design. You can Request a Quote based on your specific needs.

Do I need a permit for a hanging sign?

Yes, in many cities, installing a hanging sign requires a permit. Local sign codes often regulate size, height, materials, and placement. Call us at ‭(805) 641-1387‬, and we will help you with the permitting process.

What’s the difference between MDO and HDO for signs?

MDO (medium-density overlay) is great for painted signs with a smooth finish, while HDO (high-density overlay) is more durable and resistant to moisture—ideal for long-term outdoor use.

Can you light a hanging sign?

Yes, hanging signs can be illuminated with gooseneck lighting, backlighting, or even integrated LED elements for better visibility at night.

Cantwell's Market & Deli in Santa Barbara uses gooseneck lighting to light their hanging sign.
Cantwell’s Market & Deli in Santa Barbara uses gooseneck lighting to light their hanging sign.

Serving Ventura, Santa Barbara, Los Angeles Counties & Nationwide

Dave’s Signs proudly serves businesses throughout Ventura, Santa Barbara, and Los Angeles Counties—and Nationwide.

Whether you’re alocal shop or a growing brand with multiple locations, we can help you design, fabricate, and install signage that fits your space and elevates your presence.

Shopping malls like this one in Goleta uses ceiling mount hanging signs so shoppers can easily see what's up ahead.
Shopping malls like this one in Goleta uses ceiling mount hanging signs so shoppers can easily see what’s up ahead.

Your Hanging Sign, Your Style — Let’s Build It!

At Dave’s Signs, we design and build custom hanging signs that attract attention and bring people through your door.

Whether you’re opening a new location or refreshing your storefront, we’ll help you create a sign that sets you apart and makes a great first impression.

Have questions? Call us at ‭(805) 641-1387‬ or Request a Quote today—we’re always happy to help and answer any questions you may have.

Channel Letters 101 – What You Need to Know to Select Yours

Channel letters are an impactful type of sign that has been around since the 1920s. Since then, they’ve functioned as an excellent way to advertise your business and generate more revenue.

Reverse channel letters have a halo effect hence the name: halo-lit or reverse-lit channel letters.
Reverse channel letters have a halo effect hence the name: halo-lit or reverse-lit channel letters.

Channel letters are easy to spot from a distance, making them perfect for businesses that need large, eye-catching signage. If you want to increase your visibility, channel letters might be your best option.

If you are shopping for channel letter signage, this article will guide you through choosing the right style for your building’s facade.

What are Channel Letters?

Sign letters like AES in Long Beach, California make a statement few sign types can match in terms of impact.
Sign letters like AES in Long Beach, California make a statement few sign types can match in terms of impact.

Channel letters are three-dimensional, individually fabricated letters or graphics typically used for signage on building exteriors but can also be used indoors.

They’re often made from aluminum for the sides and backs, with acrylic faces, and can include internal lighting (usually LEDs) to illuminate the letters at night.

This sign type is highly visible and can be customized in size, color, and lighting effects to match a brand’s unique look.

Typical channel letters have five main components:

  1. Face, often made of acrylic (or sometimes metal), is the letter’s front surface that can be illuminated or left opaque.
  2. Return (sides), these vertical aluminum strips form each letter’s depth or “channel.”
  3. Back, an aluminum sheet enclosing the letter’s back, supporting internal components.
  4. Lighting, LED modules (though neon is sometimes used) are usually installed within the channel to illuminate the face or create a halo effect.
  5. Trim Cap, a border (typically plastic or metal) that attaches the acrylic face to the returns, creating a finished edge.

Where You Typically See Channel Letter Signs

Front-lit channel letter signs for GANAS Auto in Oxnard, California. We used the existing pylon sign structure which made the permitting process a lot easier.
Front-lit channel letter signs for GANAS Auto in Oxnard, California. We used the existing pylon sign structure which made the permitting process a lot easier.

Channel letters are often installed on the building’s facade or higher up when wall space is limited. For instance, in retail areas with minimal room, pole-mounted channel letters stand tall and remain highly visible.

In the example above, we created the two channel letter signs for GANAS Auto. Their storefront sign can attract people passing nearby, and the pole sign can attract motorists from far away.

Other places you commonly see channel letters are on monument signs…

Star of CA illuminated monument sign with reverse-lit channel letters in Ventura, California at dusk.
Star of CA illuminated monument sign with reverse-lit channel letters in Ventura, California at dusk.

…and indoor signs mounted on walls.

Honey Cup illuminated indoor halo-lit channel letter sign in Oxnard, California.
Honey Cup illuminated indoor halo-lit channel letter sign in Oxnard, California.

Why Channel Letters?

Building awareness for your brand is essential to your business’s success. In fact, 59% of consumers say they’re more likely to buy new products from brands they already know.

That’s why many grocery stores, retailers, restaurants, office buildings, and apartment complexes choose channel letters—they help boost visibility and recognition.

They’re also a favorite among chains andnational brands looking to strengthen brand awareness.

The Five Basic Types of Channel Letters

Channel letters come in five core styles: front-lit, halo-lit, open-face, backlit, and combination.

Each style provides a unique look and illumination level—ranging from bold, brightly lit faces to subtle, halo-like glows.

Understanding these differences helps you pick the channel letters that best match your brand and environment.

Let’s look closely at the five basic types of channel letters:

1.Front-Lit

– The most common style, front-lit channel letters use LED or neon lights to illuminate the face (usually acrylic).

– Because the face materials are highly customizable, you can tailor colors, fonts, and shapes to match any brand.

Yolandas Mexican Cafe front-lit channel letter signage in Ventura, California.
Yolandas Mexican Cafe front-lit channel letter signage in Ventura, California.

2. Halo-Lit (Reverse-Lit)

– Ideal for a unique, distinguished look, halo-lit letters shine light from behind each character.

– With opaque faces, they cast a soft glow (or “halo”) on the mounting surface, creating an upscale, sophisticated appearance.

This reverse channel letter lobby sign for Celé Wellness in Westlake Village, California gives off that soft glow.
This reverse channel letter lobby sign for Celé Wellness in Westlake Village, California gives off that soft glow.

3.Open Face:

– Often featuring aluminum backs and sides, these letters have no front or a clear front, exposing the neon or LED inside.

– This style provides a retro vibe that stands out due to the visible lighting elements.

Finneys projecting blade sign with open face neon-lit channel lettering in San Luis Obsipo, California.
Finneys projecting blade sign with open face neon-lit channel lettering in San Luis Obsipo, California.

4. Backlit

– Similar to halo-lit, backlit letters illuminate from behind, creating a halo effect around each letter.

– The result is a subtle glow that highlights the letters’ shapes, adding depth and a modern flair.

Pandora's backlit sign letters are very popular in shopping malls across the country.
Pandora’s backlit sign letters are very popular in shopping malls across the country.

5.Combination:

– Blending front-lit and halo-lit styles, combination letters can illuminate both the letter face and cast a glow behind.

– This dual effect can be striking—for instance, a red-lit face with a white halo ensures maximum visual impact.

Azabu Sushi Bar & Grill in Marina del Rey uses a combination for their custom channel letter sign.
Azabu Sushi Bar & Grill in Marina del Rey uses a combination for their custom channel letter sign.

The subtle distinction between Backlitand Halo-lit channel letters

In many cases, the terms “backlit” and “halo-lit” are used interchangeably, since both involve light shining from behind the letter rather than through the face.

However, there is often a subtle distinction:

Halo-Lit (Reverse-Lit) Channel Letters typically have an opaque (often metal) face and open backs so the LEDs shine onto the wall, creating a glow or “halo” around each letter.

Backlit Channel Letters can be similar in construction, but the focus is on illuminating behind the letters (sometimes with partially translucent materials), so the glow may appear differently or bemore diffused than a classic “halo” effect.

In essence, both styles illuminate from behind, but “halo-lit” usually emphasizes a pronounced outline around each character, while “backlit” can offer variations in how the rear glow is displayed.

Construction and Materials

When it comes to constructing channel letter signs, the choice of materials plays a pivotal role in determining their appearance, durability, and overall effectiveness.

This Bank of the Sierra combination channel letter sign is used at all their locations throughout California.
This Bank of the Sierra combination channel letter sign is used at all their locations throughout California.

The most commonly used materials include aluminum, acrylic, and in some cases polycarbonate, each offering unique benefits to suit different sign projects.

  • Aluminum: Known for its durability and corrosion resistance, aluminum is a popular choice for channel letter signs. It’s not only affordable but also versatile, as it can be anodized or painted to match any desired color and finish. Aluminum letters are robust and can withstand various weather conditions, making them ideal for outdoor signage.
  • Acrylic: Acrylic letters are another excellent option, especially for illuminated channel letters. This material is highly versatile and can be molded into complex shapes and designs. Acrylic letters can be painted or printed with custom logos and graphics, providing a sleek and modern look. They are suitable for both illuminated and non-illuminated signs, offering flexibility in design.
  • Polycarbonate: In some cases, polycarbonate may be used instead of acrylic for extra impact resistance, especially in high-traffic or vandal-prone areas. These plastic letters can be molded into various shapes, designs and can also be painted or printed with custom logos and graphics. They are lightweight and easy to install, making them another choice for sign projects.

In addition to the materials used for the letters, the construction of channel letter signs involves selecting the appropriate mounting surface and ensuring proper electrical connections.

Depending on the installation requirements, the mounting surface can be flush, raceway, backer, or a combination.

To achieve a professional and safe installation, it’s crucial to work with sign experts, like Dave’s Signs, who have extensive experience with channel letter signs.

We can help you choose the right materials, design a custom installation pattern, and ensure your sign is securely and safely mounted.

Mounting Options for Channel Letter Signs

When purchasing channel letter signage, we can help you decide the type of mount you need. Channel letters have four main mounting options: the flush mount, raceway mount, backer mount, andcombination.

Flora in Los Angeles uses a flush mount for their custom illuminated channel letter sign.
Flora in Los Angeles uses a flush mount for their custom illuminated channel letter sign.
  • Flush (Direct) Mount: This mount is themost common. And it gets its name because the letters mount directly to the building’s face. Housing for the power source and electrical wiring is behind the bulkhead wall with this option. For back-lit letters, separation from the surface comes from standoff spacers.
  • Raceway Mount: Many property managers often request that channel letters be mounted atop a raceway. Raceways are containers that neatly and safely holds the electrical components (wires, power supply, etc.) for the individual letters. A raceway also alleviates the # of holes drilled, too. We typically paint raceways so they match the hue of the sign band or storefront. This technique also ensures that it blends well with brand guidelines and the surrounding architecture.
  • Backer Mount: This mount is more common for illuminated channel letters. This option sees the channel letters attached through a pre-made opening in the building’s frontage or mounted atop the backer board. The electrical hardware and power supply are contained within the backer cabinet or situated behind the facade or bulkhead wall.
  • Combination or Custom Mount: Sometimes a sign project requires blending different mounting methods to accommodate specific design preferences or structural constraints. For example, channel letters might sit on a small raceway that’s then fixed to a backer panel. This hybrid approach provides extra flexibility, allowing you to maintain a secure installation while achieving the desired aesthetic.

Next Steps for Getting Your Backlit Channel Letters

There you go. Now you know the basics of channel letter signage. The next step we recommend is consulting with a custom sign professionallike Dave’s Signs to help you bring your vision to life.

Channel letter sign installation for Olive Garden in Santa Maria, California by Dave's Signs.
Channel letter sign installation for Olive Garden in Santa Maria, California by Dave’s Signs.

We have experts on staff who can create commercial signage for your business that will help you stand out from all the rest. Since 1992, we have been the top choice for designing, fabricating, and installing distinctive signs and graphics for small mom-and-pop stores to nationwide accounts. No job is too big or too small.

Why Choose Dave’s Signs for Your Halo Channel Letter Signs?

Dave’s Signs serves clients here in Ventura, Santa Barbara, os Angeles Counties and Nationwide. We know all the local zoning ordinances that regulate the size, illumination, location, materials, and design of channel letter signs for permits and approvals. We also have extensive experience meeting landlord’s and property management requirements for signage.

Installing the Red & Louie's Pizzaria LED illuminated front-lit channel letter sign in Hermosa Beach, California.
Installing the Red & Louie’s Pizzaria LED illuminated front-lit channel letter sign in Hermosa Beach, California.

Still have questions about channel letter signs? or other high-quality signs and services we offer? Call us at (805) 641-1387 or Request a Quote online.We’re always happy to help and answer any questions you may have.

Blade Signs for Business, Storefront & Restaurant Signage

Blade Signs create visual interest and function well in many environments.

Looking for a new way to advertise your business? Are you searching online for “blade signs near me?” Well, Dave’s Signs has you covered locally and nationwide.

We invite you to check out our blade signage. Our signs are made of high-quality materials and will last for years. Plus, some are easy to install—you don’t need any special tools or equipment.

Our gallery has a wide variety of options, perfect for any store or restaurant.

From stores to office buildings, blade signs have stood the test of time. These classic signs are currently a trending item across the country.

But first, what makes a blade sign a blade sign?

Finney’s Crafthouse Signs by Dave’s Signs 2019

What is a Blade Sign?

Shanghai Beer Garden is a custom illuminated blade sign that uses neon, channel letters, and a lightbox for the dragon logo.

Blade signs traditionally consist of athin, flat piece of metal, aluminum, or MDO plywood mounted to a building or post. The name “blade” comes from the fact that the sign hangs down or juts out like a blade.

Blade signs are designed to hang vertically or horizontally on a bracket or frame near the business’s entryway. Rugged and robust, they are mounted perpendicular to walls or other surfaces. Some even hang down from the ceiling.

One of the best features of a blade sign is its short setback. Paired with an eye-catching design makes them highly visible.

They comeilluminated or non-illuminated but always provide a focal point for passersby to view.

There are many different types of blade signs, but all share some standard features. They are typically skinny and lightweight, making them easy to mount. They also have a sleek, modern design, perfect for businesses of all types.

Blade signage works well in strip malls, downtown businesses, areas with frequent pedestrian traffic, and businesses with sidewalks in front.

Blade Signs are Designed for Attracting Foot Traffic

Honey Cup, a non-illuminated storefront pole is a standard swinging blade sign easily seen from the street.

One of the main benefits of blade signage is that they are easy to see while walking. Pedestrians won’t have to turn their heads and look at a sign that is flat up against the storefront. They can see the sign from a distance as they move forward because it projects outward and is perpendicular to the building.

Blade signs are also perfect for businesses that want to make a statement. With their sleek design and eye-catching colors, blade signs are sure to grab attention.

Why Choose a Blade Sign?

Midici Wood Fired Pizza is surface perpendicular so it can be seen without having to turn your head.

This type of sign for your business is beneficial in many ways. Here are some of the most important:

  • Blade signs are very versatile for just about any business.
  • They are made of high-quality materials and will last for years.
  • Some are easy to install and don’t require special tools or equipment.
  • Their sleek, modern style will give your business a professional look.
  • Simple blade signs can be budget-friendly while still making a statement.
  • Sophisticated illuminated blade signs can be the standout on the entire block.

Businesses That Use Blade Signage

Blade Sign Celadon
Celadon House store sign located in downtown Santa Barbara is designed to attract foot traffic.

We’ve seen an incredible number of requests for blade signs in recent years. Here are a few types of businesses that have found great success with blade signs.

  • Retail Stores: Retail stores benefit from blade signage, especially if they are located in a crowded space. Blade signs for retail are a great way to enhance the storefront while attracting the attention of shoppers walking by.
  • Restaurants: Restaurants are perfect for blade signage because they generate excitement and build anticipation for the experience. A high-quality sign says a lot about the food and can create a sense of fun and intrigue.
  • Shopping Malls: These signs are perfect for businesses located in shopping malls. Compact and double-sided, they are a great way to attract attention from drivers and pedestrians.
  • Office Buildings: Office buildings can also use blade signs to promote their business by simply displaying their name and logo. They help customers know where they are, especially in office buildings that look the same, and it’s hard to differentiate one office suite from another.

Blade sign Ojai

  • Vineyards: Local vineyards and tasting rooms abound in California. A hanging blade sign like the one we created for Majestic Oak Vineyard in Ojai adds an elegant touch that’s on-brand.

Different Types of Custom Blade Signs

As you can see from the gallery at Dave’s Signs, there are many different types of blade signs that you can choose from. Here are a few of their popular designs and the various ways they are used.

Hanging Blade Signs

Point de Chene is a sandblasted and hand-painted blade sign made out of MDO plywood.

Hanging blade signs, also called swinging signs, are typically double-sided and hang from a mount on the wall or ceiling above the business. They can be designed using custom print graphics, vinyl letters, hand-painted, sandblasted, or even routed. The most common sizes are square, rectangle, and round, but we can make them into any custom shape.

Here are 2 Types of swinging blade signs.

  • Wall Mount: Wall-mounted swinging blade signs are not illuminated. Their custom design displays your company’s name and logo. They usually hang from chains on a bracket mounted on a wall, a pole, or an ornamental frame. These signs are simple, eye-catching, and affordable.
  • Ceiling Mount: Ceiling-mounted swinging blade signs like the one pictured here can be a great way to grab attention in shopping malls and other retail locations where wall space is limited. These hanging signs are right in view, making them easy to see for shoppers walking or driving by.
Carpinteria Eye Care is one of several ceiling mount store signs in this strip mall in Carpinteria, CA.

Stationary Blade Signs

Stationary blade signs are a great way to showcase your business name and logo. They are simple, polished, and professional-looking. Since they are stationary, they can be illuminated with various lighting styles and other sign technologies like channel letters, neon, lightbox illumination, and dimensional letters because they can support the added weight. They can be used indoors or outdoors in your building and come in a variety of sizes.

Illuminated Blade Signs

Finney’s Crafthouse & Kitchen Illuminated Blade Sign uses a lightbox, front-lit channel letters and LED lighting.

Illuminated blade signs are perfect for businesses that want to make a statement 24/7. These signs are brightly lit and can be seen from a distance. Illuminated blade signs are custom-made to fit your brand and lit using channel letters, LED, neon, and or illuminated lightboxes.

Custom Illuminated Blade Signs

Typically most of our custom illuminated blade signs have a combination of lighting technologies in one sign. Since each lighting style brings its own look and feel, sometimes the right combination of different styles can bring the most eye-catching and appealing sign on the block.

For example, the Finneys Crafthouse & Kitchen sign at the top of this article is a two-sided custom-shaped stationary sign. It uses neon lighting, face-lit channel letters, and an illuminated lightbox for the “& Kitchen” section. This sign is huge and stands out for an entire block. Pedestrians and drivers can all see this sign day or night. It’s like a beacon for all to come and try out Finney’s.

Here are some classics for those who want to focus on one lighting style.

Neon Blade Signs

Neon signs are always going to attract attention to your company or storefront. Here is an example.

Neon-lit blade signs are iconic and are a special type of lighted blade sign we regularly make for our clients. These illuminated blade signs are perfect for businesses that want to stand out from the competition in a nostalgic tone. They are brightly lit and can be seen from a distance, making them perfect for promoting your business at night.

Channel Letter Blade Signs

Victoria Court shopping mall sign uses halo-lit channel letters so looks great during the day and lights up at night.

You can’t go wrong with a channel letter sign. A channel letter means any character, letter, shape, or number that is 3-D and has a lighting element inside. These signs can be face-lit and or halo-lit. Typically made of aluminum and acrylic, a channel letter blade sign is rugged, affordable, and makes a statement 24/7.4

Illuminated Lightbox Blade Signs

Infogrip and Your Low Vision Store projecting lightbox signs can be seen from the street.

Star of CA Illuminated Monument Sign by Dave’s SignsYou’ll find many illuminated lightbox signs – illuminated cabinets – used for businesses alongside city streets. These projecting signs help drivers see the business, especially at night.

These signs offer a property manager a permanent sign fixture that can be easily updated when a new tenant moves into the space.

3-D / Dimensional Letter Blade Signs

Mondos restaurant dimensional letter externally lit blade sign.

Three-dimensional blade signs are perfect for businesses that want to stand out in 3-D at a lower cost than channel letters. The sleek, flowing lines of this type of blade sign will catch the eye of passersby and invite them in to see what the business is all about. These signs can be lit externally with flood and spotlights, bullet, or even gooseneck lights.

Three-dimensional blade signs are perfect for businesses that want to stand out in 3-D without the higher cost of channel letters. The sleek, flowing lines of this type of blade sign will catch the eye of passersby and invite them in to see what you’re business is all about.

Custom Shapes

Rookees blade sign
Want to get creative? Let our sign experts come up with a really eyecatching design that stretches the imagination.

Custom blade sign shapes can be striking. Their detailed craftsmanship, like this custom outdoor blade sign we did for Rookees illustrates a uniqueness and character you can’t get from a standard flat panel sign.

Sandblasted & Routed Blade Signs

Blade sign for massage place
This clean and simple design has texture on the surface to give it that 3-D feel all on one flat panel graphic.

Lastly, everyone has seen a sandblasted or routed sign like this one, Zen Massage Place. A custom shape, 3-D feel on the letters, background texture, and a pop of color make this sign really stand out on Main Street downtown.

What are Blade Signs Made from?

Many materials can go into making them. Let’s take a closer look:

  • Aluminum / Metal – Aluminum and metal with acrylic graphics, flat graphic signs, and illuminated cabinets – aka lightbox signs.
  • Wood – Redwood or cedar for a traditional wood sign look. Great for sandblasted and routed signs.
  • Acrylic – Durable and weather-resistant, acrylic signs get your message across in 3-D.
  • MDO – Flat graphic signs, weather-resistant and waterproof, these medium-density overlay plywood signs are common in real estate.

Blade Signage Services & Support

Blade Signage Design

Our design department can come up with the best store signs and restaurant signs, like this lighted blade sign for Mupu Grill.

Whether you are working with existing branding guidelines, sign designs, or need something designed from scratch. We have an excellent design team that can work with you to come up with a standout design that matches your brand and meets the sign requirements of your city or location.

Blade Signage Permits

Do you need help with the city permitting process? Or maybe you have restrictions or limitations at your site location. Let us handle it. We have been working with cities and compliance for over 20 years. We know the permitting process. Often clients will come to us before they purchase or lease property to advise them on signage regulations and how they will affect their business.

Escape Blade Sign
One of the benefits is our experienced staff can help you with the permitting process – no matter what city you are in.

Blade Signage Fabrication

We fabricate our blade signage in-house so we can control the quality. Whether it’s a simple flat graphic blade sign or sophisticated illuminated cabinet blade signage with neon and halo-lit channel letters, we make sure it’s up to code and looks great.

We work on projects big and small. From large high rises to small downtown businesses where blade signs are popular.

Blade Sign Installation

A few blade signs are simple, lightweight, and easy to install because the brackets are already in place. You just have to switch out the swinging flat panel. However, most blade signage requires professional installation. Our expert installers will ensure your sign is secure, looks great, and is compliant with city ordinances.

Blade Sign
Blade signs bring in customers. A classic that’s been around for many years and its here to stay.

Blade Signage Service & Repair

We feel that there is no one better to maintain your sign than the company who made it. Not only will we design, fabricate and install your signs. We’ll be there for routine maintenance and repair when the need arises.

Do you already have blade signage done by someone else? Does it need repair, removal, or restoration? No problem, call us. We can repair your sign or create a brand new sign just like it.

Dave’s Signs: Your Custom Blade Sign Company

Toppers Pizza Blade Sign
Here is a design, build and installation we did for Toppers Pizza in Channel Islands. Contact us for your signage needs.

From a traditional blade sign design to custom signs that speak to your brand, the team at Dave’s Signs can make the right sign for your business site a reality. And whether we use custom lighting like halo-lit channel letters or something else you have in mind, your projecting sign will capture the imagination of everyone passing by.

We’ll be there for every step, from getting permits, designing your sign, and fabrication to installing it properly.

Whether you’re local or out of state – we ship nationwide. If you’re interested in finding out more about our custom blade signage, you can contact us at (805) 641-1387. You can also reach out to us with questions or request a quote online.

Check Out Some of Our Custom Business Signs in Ojai, California

There’s nothing that describes a sign shop better than the signs they have made that you know and love. We thought we’d put together a few posts that show you some of our favorite signs we’ve designed and mounted in specific cities around Ventura County and tell you a bit about the companies they represent. This city page highlights some of the best signage we’ve created for Ojai, California.

If you see other signs around town that remind you of these, chances are we made them, too. If you’re curious, contact us and tell us which sign you think we made. We’ll let you know if you guessed correctly.

This is a photo of the Red Horse Plaza custom illuminated monument sign designed, fabricated and installed by Dave’s Signs. Red Horse Plaza is located in Ojai, CA.

#1: Red Brick Plaza

This sturdy monument sign we made for Red Horse Plaza really captures the history of Ojai. The brick background brings to mind a time when most buildings were made from red bricks, an example of that era.

Welcome to Ojai Monument Sign

#2: Welcome to Ojai Sign

There is something mystical about stone structures, and this monument sign we made for the City of Ojai is no exception. Additionally, the design emphasizes the “Welcome to Ojai” text and focuses on the natural beauty found throughout the city.

Dave’s Signs designs, builds and installs custom restaurant signs, monuments signs, serving Ventura County, CA.

#3: AJ Chinese Express

One of the popular restaurants in Ojai, AJ Chinese Express, is a family-owned and operated business. The font and delicate flowers on their exterior signage, like their food, is an elegant presentation. Channel Letter Signs like the one on the storefront is halo-lit too. The sign looks like it belongs with the rest of the building and its surroundings, as any well-designed signage should.

#4: Topa Mountain Winery

Ventura County wineries are iconic and are often featured in places like the Ojai Valley News. Dave’s Signs made this gorgeous Dimensional Letter sign for Topa Mountain Winery that stands out from all of them because it has an old-fashioned vintage charm to it with its rustic exterior and simple design.

The owners were looking for something unusual yet natural for their winery, which is why they chose this classic design. It is located in the heart of Ojai Valley and has been a popular destination for wine lovers since it opened.

Bali Blue Furniture Lounge sign in Ojai CA

#5: Bali Blue Furniture Lounge

Remember the Bali Blue Furniture Lounge? Sadly it, and this neon sign doesn’t exist anymore (sigh). However, during its heyday, it was an iconic slice of Americana and idyllic Southern California experience. Who could forget sitting on the porch of the beautiful Bali Blue Furniture Lounge on Ventura Avenue in comfy furniture, while enjoying a cup of coffee and watching the world go by.

The blue neon sign that Dave’s Signs made for this establishment gives you that same iconic feeling with its bright colors and simple style.

#6: Westridge Market

This beautiful old-fashioned grocery store in Ojai has been a staple of the community since it first opened. Dave’s Signs created several nostalgic signs with Custom Graphics for their interior that captures the essence of the market and its long history. The aesthetic looks hand-painted, which fits well with the rustic essence of Westridge.

#7: Sander’s & Son’s Gelato

If you’re looking for a delicious treat while in Ojai, stop by Sanders & Son’s on Ojai Avenue and enjoy a cup of Italian artisan gelatos and sorbets made with fresh local ingredients.

Dave’s Signs fun window graphics will meet you as you go in the front door too. The golden font features the name and year they were founded, and the overall effect is eye-catching and inviting. The sign complements the fun and delicious experience on a hot summer day in Ojai perfectly!

Ojai Mira Monte Apartments Sign

#8: Ojai Mira Monte Apartments

Ojai Mira Monte Apartment homes offer studio, one, and two-bedroom options that offer views of the Ojai Valley. There is a strong sense of community there where families lounge by the pool or barbecue in their picnic area. 

The natural design that Dave’s Signs made for them gives the complex a welcoming vibe that will make it easy for you to feel at home.

Additionally, the Monument Sign features their name. That way, people passers-by can get more information about what makes Ojai Mira Monte Apartments the perfect place to live. 

#9: Peralta Real Estate Team

Dave’s Signs created this custom sign for the Peralta Real Estate Team that captures their playful and modern approach to real estate. The simple, refined style of the Dimensional Letter Sign fits well with the upscale properties they work with here in Ojai too.

You can see why Penalta chose Dave’s Signs to make their sign. Its simple yet sophisticated style makes it easy to distinguish from other real estate signs in the area. And that is what you want when your goal is to help people find their dream home.

Majestic Oak Vineyard in Ojai Valley

#10. Ojai Majestic Oak and Wine Tasting

Tucked away in the heart of Ojai Valley, this family-owned and operated vineyard is a must-see destination for wine lovers. The vintage color palette, rustic style, and simple lettering give it an old-world charm that makes it fit perfectly in Ojai Valley.

This Blade Sign by Dave’s Signs gets its inspiration from their location, and its rugged material will surely stand the test of time. It features their familiar and beautiful illustration of an oak tree with vines growing all around it.

Let Dave’s Signs Create Your Beautiful Ojai Signs 

Dave’s Signs is proud to be a part of the Ojai community. We create beautiful signs that capture the unique spirit of this wonderful city. If you’re looking for high-quality, affordable signage, contact us today by calling ‭(805) 641-1387‬ or Request a Quote online and we’ll be happy to help you get started on your project.

How to Brand Your Growing Business with Corporate Building Signs

As anyone who has tried to grow their business knows, it’s vital to focus on your branding efforts. After all, even Pepsi and Coca-Cola still work on branding, and they’ve been America’s favorite sodas since the 1940s. There are many different aspects of branding for you to work on, including your corporate signs. Without proper signage, your customers won’t be able to connect each of your products to your specific company. Instead, read on to find out more about corporate building signs that give your prospective customers a lasting impression.

Steps to Branding with Corporate Building Signs

Before you begin designing your signs, make sure you know what colors and logo you’re going to use. Daves’s Signs does excellent design work. We can take anything from a loose sketch to existing logos, fonts, colors—to brand guidelines or architectural renderings that were done by an agency, to collaborate and present you with sign solutions.

For instance, we can take your existing logo to come up with eye-catching sign ideas, resulting in something wonderful in terms of look and feel that fits your needs. Dave’s Signs is also fully knowledgeable about what the city allows for signage. We’ll work to get you a beautiful sign that checks all the boxes when it comes to local ordinances.

Bank of the Sierra Channel Letter Sign
Bank of the Sierra Channel Letter Sign.

Starting from scratch? No problem—our design team can collaborate with you to design the perfect branding solution for your business needs. In short, we’ll design, fabricate and install a sign that meets all city requirements and elevates your brand.

Lastly, you’ll need to decide between several different sign types. Some are easier to choose than others based purely on your location or industry.

Custom Signs That Make Excellent Corporate Building Signs

The custom signtypes available from Dave’s Signs include:

Below is some information about these custom signs, including how they draw attention to your brand.

Dimensional Letters 

Storefront Signs

Dimensional Letter Signs refer to any lettering or logo that has three dimensions (as opposed to flat panels). You may also hear them called metal letters, plastic cut letters or 3D graphics too. While dimensional letters are not intrinsically illuminated, they can be lit in some ways. When similar letters are internally illuminated or backlit, they are called channel letters.

Illuminated Signs

If your business is open after dark, Illuminated Signs are a must-have. Illuminated signs will help people engage with your business, while also providing high visibility day and night. Additionally, bear in mind that some shopping centers and property management companies make it mandatory that your storefront signs be illuminated. For more information on illuminated signs check out our post, “What are the Different Types of Lighted Signs? Here are our Top 5.”

Neon Signs

If you want to make a lasting impression, Neon Signs have been getting desired results for brands for over a century. Neon tubing has been a popular solution for both creating and accenting signs for over 100 years, and their steady, piercing lights have a high visual impact, bringing attention to the artwork from blocks away. The businesses that choose neon signs light up the night with distinct primary colors, making them a definite focal point at night, thereby branding your business.

Monument Signs

For many hotels, shopping malls, apartment complexes, business parks, restaurants, and even city entryways, exterior monument signs are truly impressive and make a large impact. Monument signage provides a wonderful landmark for your company by letting all passers-by know exactly who and where you are.

Property Management Signs

Property Management Signs covers all sign types for apartments, planned communities, shopping malls, hotels, office buildings & properties, and retail outlets. They work hard to elevate your brand and establish your reputation, along with helping your business communicate effectively with the local community with a cohesive look and functionality throughout.

Channel Letter Signs

Custom Corporate Signs: Finney's

Channel Letter Signs is one of the best ways to present your business to the public and one of the most popular. By forming each channel letter separately using its own light source, you get a 3D effect for your corporate signs that are awe-inspiring to your prospective customers. Some of the most high-end and complex illuminated signs use channel letters. For more info on channel letters, check out our post “Channel Letters 101 – What You Need to Know to Select Yours,” or see lots of examples in our channel letters sign gallery.

Office Signs

Custom Corporate Signs: Derby Curtis on wood

Interior Office Signs often require elegance and elevated visual appeal. Dave’s Signs can provide custom Lobby Signs, illuminated or not, Letter Set Signs, Interior Signs, Way-finding Signs, ADA Signs, Office Suite Signs, Door Signs, Interior Store Signs with beautiful fabricated letters and logos. Pair them with custom exterior signs to really enforce your brand name in your customer’s mind.

Custom Graphics

Custom Graphic Wall Sign

Few things set your business apart more than Custom Graphics. These include anything from Custom Printed Graphics & Signage, Hand Painted Signs, Custom Wall, Floor, Window Graphics, Custom Boat & Vehicle Graphics. The images and lettering used can transform something drab into dynamic and modern branding. Our sign professionals can take your ideas and turn them into custom graphics with visual appeal. Or, we can start from scratch and design you something totally unique.

Window Graphics

Windows, which make up a large portion of your storefront, restaurant, or office, can provide excellent real estate for marketing your business effectively. Our sign experts will create Custom Window Graphics based on your brand requirements. Whether we design it or you bring us the designs, we can make full-color stickers, vinyl letters and install them to look great.

Blade Signs

Custom Corporate Signs: Rookees

Blade Signs create visual interest and function well in many environments. They really make for nice corporate building signs too. These signs hang vertically or horizontally on a bracket or frame near the entryway to your store, restaurant or building. Likewise, Blade Signs work well in strip malls, downtown businesses, areas with frequent pedestrian traffic and business with sidewalks in front. Want to see some great examples? Check out our blade sign gallery or head downtown to your favorite stores and restaurants.

AES Channel Letter Sign

Do I Really Need a High-Quality Corporate Sign?

Have you ever been to a store that’s still using a worn-out sign that’s seen better days? If so, you already know how unprofessional this can look. These battered signs might be considered charming at a vegetable stand on the side of the road. However, if you plan to be in business for the long run, then it’s best to invest in high-quality signs.

So, to answer the question, yes, you do need a high-quality corporate sign. Consider beautiful, professional corporate building signs a sound investment since placing one outside your building or outside of your restaurant is going to get you more attention, better-paying customers and a better all-around feeling about your business.

Let Dave’s Signs Help with Your Corporate Building Signs

Branding your business is the ultimate business strategy. No matter what type of signs you need, call Dave’s Signs for assistance at (805) 641-1387 or Request a Quote online. We’ve got the perfect signage solutions for you and we are specialists in creating unique signs for our customers for more than 20 years. We’ll work with you, the city you are located in and make sure you get the signs that are right for you.

Dave’s Signs Blog

This is a blog about signs. We highlight the different types of signs: signs we’ve created for our customers, history of sign design and today’s cutting edge sign technologies. Ask a question about signs, and you’ll likely find the answer here.

Case Studies

Spencer Makenzies Neon Sign

Here we go into detail on some of the custom signs we’ve done. Including Spencer Makenzie’s Neon Sign, Topper’s Pizza Neon Signs in the Oxnard Harbor, and The Historic Ventura Pole Sign. Check back with us. We’ll have more case studies of signs posted in the near future.

Custom Signs Near You

Saloon BBQ Custom Sign

We’ve designed, fabricated, installed and serviced signs all over southern California. Here are some highlighted areas near you including Ventura, Oxnard and Santa Barbara. Check back soon for more updates.

Call us today for an Estimate at (805) 641-1387 or

Request a Quote Online

Call us at (805) 641-1387


Neon Sign Design Computer

We Make Beautiful Neon Signs in Our On-Site Facility

Dave’s Signs has perfected the art of neon signs. We can handle all sizes of neon signage, from the small intricate signs to the eye-catching, large neon signs. Ask us for a personalized quote orcontact us for any questions you may have about neon signage.

See Our Neon Sign Gallery


Dave’s Signs Makes Custom Office Signs

Whether you need a lobby sign,directional signage or ADA signs, Dave’s Signs can help you with all your office sign needs. We can use your logo and create a beautiful, distinctive sign for your office. We can also create custom building directory signs, suite signs, and directional signs to give the building a unique unified theme. Call us today to help you with all your office sign needs.

See Our Custom Signs

Custom Sign Design Grove Avenue