Blade Signs
Projecting your message when space is at a premium
What is a Blade Sign and Why Do I Need One?
Blade signs are vertical assemblies that are mounted to a building or architectural surface at an angle perpendicular to the flow of traffic. They usually are double-sided so as to be viewed from both directions. Since blade signs project out from the building, they are more easily seen by people walking or driving by, as opposed to approaching from the front. That makes them effective at attracting foot traffic from a sidewalk into your establishment.
Why choose this sign type over another and under what circumstances?
Visibility in tight spaces is what makes blade signs an economical solution that still attracts attention. Blade signs are implemented in a variety of situations, both interior and exterior, for an array of market segments. They are typically double sided, making them a popular form of wayfinding, but are also effective in branding applications. Blade signs are particularly popular in downtown shopping areas where there is a lot of foot and street traffic.
Blade signs can be designed in various ways, shapes & sizes. and stay consistent with a business’ brand identity, look, and feel. They are especially flexible when it comes to customization and design options. There is no standard specification for a blade sign – the design can be tailored with a myriad of options to suit an organization’s messaging and brand.
Blade signs may require planning and zoning approval and building permits in some jurisdictions. Because of their relatively smaller size compared to other forms of outdoor signage, they will usually cost less to construct and maintain.
Different Types of Blade Signs
- Pole mounted blades: This is a common, simple, and economical design solution whereby a flat plaque, illuminated cabinet, or flexible banner spans between horizontal poles projecting from a wall or surface.
- Swinging blades: A classic blade sign design used for hundreds of years, a swinging blade consists of a horizontal shape containing a brand or message that hangs from a horizontal pole with chains, cables, or other materials that allow it to swing.
- 3-Dimensional blades: Instead of a standard flat, square, round, or rectangular shape with simple printed text & logos, 3D blade signs incorporate channel letters, reliefs, borders, 3D printed sculptures, LED lighting, neon and other elements that give the blade sign extra “dimension” and depth.
- Custom illuminated (lightbox) blades: Blade signs can “glow in the dark” by illuminating back panels and other elements. While the initial cost is higher than a non-illuminated blade, an illuminated blade sign acts as a silent salesperson for your brand 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
- Electronic blade signs: Blade signs can also feature video screens and dynamic lighting effects to draw attention to themselves. LED screens are a popular and effective centerpiece of many modern blade signs because they provide full color video and dynamic messaging capability that surpasses anything that can be done with static signage. Lighting effects like chasing or scintillating bulbs, color changing strips, etc. can enhance a blade sign to make it more attractive.
How Ad Art Does Blade Signs
Ad Art is all about value. We strive to be cost effective in everything we do so that every penny spent will bring optimal return on investment. Ad Art is known for creativity and innovation that helps set each customer’s sign apart from “ordinary” static signage. Quality, durability, and reliability are hallmarks of our products, which drives us to take pride in our work. We look good when our customers look good.
Blade signs are constructed to the highest standards in the sign industry. Blade sign design is as unique as your organization. From metals to wood to composites (plastics) to fabric, there is a wide range of blade sign material options to choose from. Like most sign types, there is a long list of customizations possible. Blade signs can be crafted with additional considerations like mounting method, illumination, or style of graphic application. When built by Ad Art, your sign is guaranteed to look amazing for many years.
The Process:
First, we determine the needs of the business to ensure a blade sign is the appropriate choice. If so, we then establish design requirements with the customer. After that, we select the basic elements of the sign that meet design requirements. These include:
- Letters
- Logos
- Illumination
- Electronic displays (LED screens)
- Dynamic lighting or animated lighting effects
- Structure and shape
- Materials and finishes
