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The Cost of Free Sign Design and Other Thoughts from December’s Inbox

Also, a request for an all-3D-topics issue.

Published

4 months ago

January 9, 2024

Signs of the Times Staff Signs of the Times January 2024 Issue

3D Process

I enjoy articles which showcase process photos along the way. I would love to have a full issue dedicated to the craft of three-dimensional signs and design. — Roger Cox, Vim Creative Studios, Hanalei, HI

The Cost of Free Design

Address the notion that “free” design is part of the sales process. It’s a valuable service, and it should be paid for and protected as part of your IP. It’s an unfortunate yet common practice, kind of like giving away drugs so that the buyer comes back for more. — James Keppel, CLI Services, Denver
I think there are still a lot of signshops out there that are feeling uncomfortable with charging for design. It would be valuable to help them build confidence in doing so if they heard from more shops that are doing it. — Alexandra Lund, Bismarck Sign Co., Bismarck, ND

Creative Champions

I enjoyed reading about the Sign Superheroes, especially David Gonzales’ poem on how he’s like a superhero (see St November, 2023). Just goes to show how creative sign people really are. — Louise DiGiacomo, Signs of Art Graphic Design, Philadelphia

A Fun Read

32 things to be grateful for (see St, November 2021) was very self-reflecting. In a busy world it’s good to have a nice chuckle. — Bobby Jordan, Fastsigns of White Marsh-Joppa, Joppa, MD
Tavern signs (see St, December 2023) were fun. — Greg Abbott, Abbott Image Solutions, Wilmington, OH

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