How to Become a Sign Writer
The craft of sign making has evolved in the last five decades to reflect changes in technology and marketing efforts. A sign writer in the 1950s created store displays, billboards and other materials by applying paint to wood or metal. The modern sign writer uses computer aided design (CAD) to apply special color blends to car doors, billboards and glass displays. However, the path from novice to experienced sign writer often remains similar to the apprenticeship programs used by advertising agencies in the 1950s.
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Instructions
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Mix shop and art classes in high school to maintain broad career options after graduation. An artist who wants to get involved in advertising and marketing can use general skills learned in these courses for a career in sign writing.
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Investigate schools that focus entirely on sign making and writing before heading off to a liberal arts college. There are schools like the Hayward School of Dimensional Sign Making (see Resources below) that offer workshops and certifications for aspiring artists interested in creating advertising signs.
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Utilize elective courses in college to enhance your studies in art and visual communications. Students who are interested in sign writing should think about engineering, advertising and business courses to see their future vocation from multiple angles.
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Pursue certifications in CAD and graphic design software from technical schools between graduation and entry-level positions in sign writing. These computer programs are used by a majority of sign making companies to ensure accuracy on high-volume orders.
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Submit applications for temporary jobs during high school and college that provide paid education about the tools and skills needed for sign writing. Every sign writer can learn about paint and media varieties while stocking supplies at a local arts supplier or hardware store.
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Seek an apprenticeship with an established sign making company to start your career as a sign writer. Companies like Evergreen Sign Company (see Resources below) look for apprentices who are willing to put in their time and learn about sign making before becoming full-fledged writers and designers.
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Purchase sign writing software and clear out space in your home to start a freelance sign making company. A sign writer who has completed some work in the industry can use software like Vinyl Express as well as high-end art supplies to create innovative signs for local businesses. Self-employed sign writers can outsource larger products to commercial print shops to keep overhead costs low.
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Tips & Warnings
Apply your growing knowledge of sign writing to part-time, temporary and summer jobs during your college years. An aspiring sign writer can create handmade signs for sales, store opening and advertised events to develop a keen eye for detail.
Avoid a long list of rejection letters by editing your sign writing portfolio throughout your career. Ditch high school and college projects if you have worked at three or more sign writing positions. These professional positions yield greater samples as well as a track record of success that can be dampened by amateur signing projects.
Resources
- Photo Credit Photo by Michelle Thompson
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