It's a sign of the times --- actually, many signs of the times if you're getting into the sign making business, and you'll have your choice of mediums if you invest that time and money in this industry. Neon? LCD? Old-fashioned wood or paper? Perhaps you're pursuing the vinyl sign phenomenon. Happily, this article can help you launch your business regardless of media so you can help other business owners advertise their services and wares courtesy of your handiwork.
Select a storefront based on reasonable rates, utilities and proximity to customer traffic. Build out the facility to accommodate the storage of your raw materials (e.g., vinyl rolls, wood, silk screen set-up, glass and gas) and install worktables, electrical outlets and a sales counter with computer/cash register. Apply for permits and licenses necessary to set up shop and purchase insurance coverage to protect you and future employees.
Draft a start-up budget and business plan to prepare to seek funding. Calculate a year's worth of physical overhead, equipment and supply projections in addition to cost of living expenses for yourself. Research competitors and decide how you will market your sign business before approaching lending institutions and investors for seed money.
Seek used or refurbished equipment if you're on a stringent budget. Order supplies plus business cards, stationery, invoices and other tools necessary to run your enterprise. Create a pricing menu, brochure and sales aids and set up a website that will allow you to take orders (upload art) via the Internet. Affiliate with credit card and other payment services so you can accept electronic and paper payments for your services.
Apply due diligence to your search for the best type of signage business --- one that matches your talents, budget, physical space and profit margins. Check out equipment and supplies to determine the best fit for your circumstances. Take classes in sign making and/or apprentice for several types of sign making firms so you're well-versed in all aspects of the craft.
Pitch your signs to decision makers at area businesses, large companies and organizations so your name will come to mind first next time a sign is needed. Join local merchant networking associations to create marketing liaisons to expand your outreach and attract new customers in the future.
Load the graphic design software you've selected into your computer -- ideally, sign-specific programs such as Gerber Omega, FlexiSign and Sign-Lab will be most conducive to getting your signs fabricated in the sizes and formats most consumers seek, though you may opt for Corel Draw, Photoshop or Adobe Illustrator if you're already comfortable with these popular graphics programs. Fabricate a variety of original signs that will serve as samples so customers can get an idea of the depth and breadth of your sign making skills.
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