Signs that don’t shout

Most of the time you probably make sure that a sign’s message has plenty of impact. But not every sign needs to shout—sometimes a very subtle, understated look is more appropriate. Make that very, very subtle—like the look of bronze on bronze or gray steel on gray steel. Jim Lago [Healdsburg Signs, Healdsburg, California] often puts these effects to work to create high style, tasteful graphics for the wineries and related businesses in his area. (Be sure to check out Sign design ideas from California’s wine country for more of Jim’s work!)

His materials of choice for these projects include copper and steel with patina finishes, and HDU board with faux finishes. The intent is to create a very conservative, unpretentious look that is a pleasure to see. It’s ideal for prestige businesses and subdivisions that want to state their name in an artful, dignified way. No shouting, please…