Today, digital prints dominate the sign industry. This is particularly true for vehicle graphics. Usually, these digital prints – called “wraps” – cover entire vehicles with prodigious design, color and text. Similarly, computerized vinyl lettering – a relative of digital prints – is the go-to choice for quick, inexpensive signs that require simple lettering. As the result of these computerized digital methods, classically hand-painted signs have diminished in popularity. Additionally, other types of hand-crafted, outdoor signs, including hand-carved, sandblasted and dimensional signs, are in less demand.
Durability considerations
Interestingly, classically hand-painted signs offer convincing reasons why they are oftentimes better choices:
First, they are better values when durability is an issue. For example, all wear conditions being equal, classically hand-painted signs will last twice as long as digital prints and vinyl signs. (Amazingly, hand-crafted signs, such as the sandblasted or dimensional signs, will last six times longer than digital print and vinyl signs. See our dimensional Tea Table sign, below.)
Second, hand-painted signs offer endless design opportunities and can even reveal dimensional characteristics. That is, hand-painting techniques can create three-dimensions, perspective illustrations and faux finishes like wood grain, marble and crackle.
Third, color! Classically hand-painted signs can be a color feast for the eyes. The painter’s pallet offers limitless color choices. Check out the colorful Kirk’s Fly Shop sign, below.
“Ghost signs” across America
Ultimately, today’s digital sign-making techniques are fast and can be impressive when done right. But, they’re more expensive and come with obvious longevity disadvantages.
Alternately, many hand-painted signs are truly memorable in their durability, artistry and even in their advertising history. In fact, classically hand-painted signs are still visible as “ghost signs” across America; hand-painted advertising on century-old urban buildings. (See our blog post Ghost Signs Still Haunt America.) These gigantic hand-painted signs have remained long after the painters and businesses have disappeared. They’re a tribute to the enduring beauty of classic hand-painted signs.
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