Super Cheap Signs

Author: Matt Medel

  • Yard Sign Stakes: A Comprehensive Guide to Wire Stakes

    Table of Contents

    What are Those?

    Ever wonder what those little metal looking wires are that hold up the yard signs? You know, the yard signs you see on the side of the road? They are called H-wire stakes, more commonly called wire stakes or H-wires and they are made of galvanized steel. There seems to be a variety of different types of H-wires but after just learning what they are, how do you know which to get? Here at Super Cheap Signs, we carry 4 options of wire stakes. We’ll go over the different kinds and what they’re best suited for when it comes to displaying your signs.

    The Standard

    Standard H-wire

    First, we have the Standard H-wire. They consist of 4, 9-gauge steel wires that are welded together to form an “H” shape, just with two lines in the middle instead of one. These are 30 inches tall and 10 inches wide and best suited for signs no bigger than 24”x 24”. These are the most common type of H-wire to see in the wild and are going to be our base of comparison for the other wire stakes we’re about to go over.

    Half the size, all the hype!

    Half-Size H-wire

    Second, we have Half-size H-wires, which are just as they sound. Imagine taking a standard H-wire and cutting it in half. What you’re left with is 2 half size h wires. Nifty, right? These are only 15 inches tall but still 10 inches wide. Great for keeping your signs low to the ground and create the illusion that the signs are just standing upright on their own. These are also great for areas with higher winds than average. Best for smaller signs but can still hold the traditional 18×24 signs as well.

    Economy’s booming

    Economy H-wire

    Third up on our list are Economy H-wires. These are slightly shorter than the standard wire stakes, but still stand tall at 24 inches. These also maintain the same width of 10 inches, as well as 9-gauge steel wire. Being a bit cheaper than the standards, but still offering similar results, economy H-Wires are definitely the more budget friendly option. Plus, if you need something to be displayed lower than the standard but higher than the half size, these are the perfect middle ground.

    Don’t worry, these are Heavy-Duty!

    Heavy-Duty wire stake

    Finally, we have our Heavy-Duty H-wires. These are as the name implies, heavy-duty and meant for places where the ground is tougher than your grandpa. But seriously, the base of these are made from 3-gauge steel wire which is considerably thicker than the 9-gauge the rest are solely made of.  They still have the 9-gauge wires too, just on the top of them so that the signs can still fit. They’re the common choice for displaying signs with sizes like 24×32, 24×36, and 24×48. They can be used for signs as big as 4’x4’, as long as you use two at a time. We recommend using U-channel posts for signs 4’ or taller but this article is about wire stakes, so we’ll come back to that later. Either way, having some heavy duty H-Wires will definitely help your signs stand up to the elements, no pun intended.

    The Choice is Yours!

    The Choice is Yours With all these options, now you have a better idea on what would work best for your specific needs. When in doubt the standard size is going to be the safe bet. They’re the standard for a reason, right? If you have any further questions, check out our accessories page. Don’t hesitate to give us a call at 512-833-9900 and as always, we look forward to keeping on providing you with more sign knowledge in the future.

    TLDR: So… What kind of H-wires are there?

  • The Limitations of Screen-Printed Signs: What You Need to Know

    Table of Contents

    When people ask what I do for a living, I tell them I work at a sign company. Almost every time, the follow-up question is, “What kind of signs?” When I mention screen-printed signs, many people are surprised and ask, “Is that still effective?” or “Do people still do that?” The answer is yes! Screen printing remains a great option for certain types of signage, especially yard signs. But like any printing method, it has its advantages and limitations. Let’s explore the differences between screen printing and digital printing and why screen printing is still a valuable choice.

    Screen Printing vs. Digital Printing: What’s the Difference?

    To understand the limitations of screen-printed signs, it’s important to compare them to their main alternative—digitally printed signs. In today’s advertising world, digital printing has become more common due to advancements in inkjet and laser printing technology. These methods allow for full-color designs to be printed quickly and efficiently.

    Screen printing, on the other hand, can achieve full-color prints, but the process is far more complex. It involves using a four-color process (CMYK—Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Black) to layer ink in tiny dots, much like vintage comic books. While this technique can produce high-quality results, it’s much more time-consuming, making it less practical for smaller orders or highly detailed images.

    The Limitations of Screen Printing

    While screen printing is a great option for specific applications, it does come with a few restrictions that customers should be aware of:

    1. Limited Color Options

    Screen printing works best with one to three solid colors. Unlike digital printing, which can easily handle gradients and complex color blends, screen printing requires separate screens for each color. This makes full-color designs impractical and costly.

    2. Bulk Orders Are More Cost-Effective

    Because of the setup required for each color and design, screen printing is best suited for large production runs. If you only need a few signs, digital printing is often the more affordable and convenient option.

    3. No Edge-to-Edge Printing

    One of the biggest limitations of screen printing is the required blank border around the edges of the sign. A ⅝ to ¾-inch border is necessary to prevent ink from spilling over and smudging. This border also ensures the signs can be handled properly during printing and drying.

    4. Longer Production Time for Complex Designs

    While simple text and graphics can be produced efficiently, intricate designs with multiple colors require precise alignment. Each layer must be carefully registered to avoid misalignment, which can slow down the production process.

    Why Screen Printing is Still a Great Option

    Despite these limitations, screen printing remains a highly effective method for specific types of signs. It’s particularly useful for yard signs, real estate signage, and bulk advertising campaigns due to its durability and cost efficiency at high volumes. Plus, the ink used in screen printing is thick and vibrant, resulting in long-lasting and weather-resistant prints.

    What are these yard sign limitations you speak of?

    • In Screen Printing, 1 – 3 colors are ideal, No full color designs (that’s for digital printing).
    • The more the merrier… screen printing is better for bulk orders, not just a few signs.
    • Screen printed signs must have a blank 5/8 – ¾ inch border around the edge as necessary for the printing process, No edge-to-edge printing.

    Final Thoughts

    Screen printing may not be the best choice for every project, but for bulk orders and simple, bold designs, it’s hard to beat. Understanding these limitations can help you make an informed decision when choosing the best printing method for your needs.

    If you’re looking for high-quality screen-printed signs, feel free to stop by or reach out to our customer service team. We’d be happy to help you find the best signage solution for your business or event!

  • How to Keep Your Yard Sign from Being Stolen?

    How to Keep Your Yard Sign from Being Stolen?

    Table of Contents

    During the 2020 election season, tensions were high – and record numbers of political yard signs were stolen and vandalized. And while the act of stealing lawn signs has been around since the yard sign was invented, it’s important that you can keep them displayed proudly on your front lawn. 

    If you’re here to search for advice on electrifying your yard sign, unfortunately, we can’t provide those tips. What we can tell you, however, is that there are simple, straightforward ways to ensure that these items stay put. Even though yard signs are cheap, people spend considerable time and effort installing them, so campaign yard sign thieves shouldn’t just get a free pass.

    Is Stealing Lawn Signs Illegal?

    Absolutely, yes. Theft and vandalism of political signs is a crimes, and so is trespassing on private property. Most states consider these misdemeanors, but if multiple signs have been vandalized, these charges can quickly add up. 

    “Is It Illegal to Electrify a Yard Sign?”

    We understand that you don’t want to lose the products you’ve paid for with your hard-earned money. But let’s talk about what you shouldn’t do. 

    In Washington, Ray Gilbride used copper wire to hook his campaign sign up to a non-lethal electric fence. As he explained, “Situational ethics is wrong. Stealing is stealing. You’ve got to go back to the basics: If it’s not yours, don’t touch it.” 

    While Gilbridge consulted with police to ensure its legality, this situation likely depends on the local jurisdiction (and Super Cheap Signs obviously can’t provide you with legal advice).

    How to Booby Trap a Yard Sign

    If you want to avoid potential lawsuits but need to prevent yard sign theft, there are plenty of colorful methods that people have employed. Your booby trap needs to be effective but also has to ensure that no one gets hurt. 

    Rub Some Vaseline on It

    The internet is filled with references to covering the backs of political signs with vaseline and it works well because it’s a substance with a disturbing texture. Some people have gone as far as to suggest using fecal matter as a deterrent, but this is ill-advised. 

    It Needs More Cowbell

    After losing four of their lawn signs to thieves, a Pennsylvania couple created their own sign out of 4’x8’ sheets of plywood. Two alarms were connected to a tripwire with another silent alarm triggered inside the house when someone walked onto the property. Not to be outdone, a surveillance camera was also installed to catch perpetrators red-handed. 

    Fishing Line

    One Indiana resident connected a fishing line between his lawn signs and his front porch to keep them from being taken away. He went one step further by adding another thin green string along the ground to trip up thieves. The Indianapolis citizen claimed to be “2-and-0” with his effective and (mostly) harmless method. 

    It Doesn’t Always Work the Way You Think…

    In Massachusetts, Arthur Gonsalves placed a black box reading “Danger” on one of his political signs and some colorful wires dangling from it. It seemed harmless enough…until local police treated the “booby trap” seriously, calling the state bomb squad in to investigate. 

    While Mr. Gonsalves told the authorities that it was fashioned from his old stereo system’s equalizer, it probably wasn’t the best way to protect his yard sign. 

    Simpler Ways to Prevent Yard Signs from Being Stolen

    If you’re handy and clever, we’re sure you can create inventive ways to keep political signs from being stolen. However, most of us could follow these straightforward rules: 

    • Bring your signs in at night time. 
    • Keep signs in your front windows or porch windows. 
    • Install a motion-sensing light directed at your yard signs.
    • Use “Arrow Spinner Signs” to grab attention and keep it in your possession. 

    If someone keeps stealing your yard signs – or you simply want to purchase something to place outside your home or business – our team offers incredibly low prices for our high-quality signs. And if you’re considering purchasing larger quantities, you’ll save substantially more. That’s the Super Cheap Signs promise!

  • Boost Your Brand on a Budget: The Enduring Power of Custom Vinyl Stickers

    Table of Contents

    In the dynamic world of marketing, vinyl stickers emerge as an enduring and cost-effective strategy to amplify your brand’s presence. Despite the digital marketing surge, these tactile tools retain their charm and effectiveness, offering a blend of tradition and versatility to communicate your company’s message and showcase your products innovatively.

    Why Choose Vinyl Stickers for Advertising?

    Versatile Application for Maximum Exposure: Vinyl stickers are uniquely adaptable for both indoor and outdoor use, ensuring your message stands out in any setting. Their durability and customizability make them perfect for a wide array of surfaces and environments, from corporate offices to bustling outdoor events.

    Tailored to Your Brand: Custom shapes and sizes are not just possible but recommended, allowing your stickers to perfectly embody your brand’s essence. This personal touch enhances brand recognition and ensures your message resonates with the intended audience.

    Ideal Spots for Sticker Placement

    Capture Attention at Events: Leverage the power of vinyl stickers at trade shows, conferences, and other large gatherings. They are an excellent tool for guerrilla marketing, offering a tangible reminder of your brand that attendees can take with them, extending your reach beyond the event itself.

    Integrate with Your Marketing Materials: Enhancing your business correspondence and literature with branded stickers can significantly boost your visibility and reinforce your marketing message in a cohesive and professional manner.

    Choosing the Perfect Sticker Size

    Adaptability Is Key: The size and shape of your stickers should reflect the diversity of their potential applications. From the smallest piece of merchandise to large-scale outdoor placements, selecting a versatile size ensures your message is always clear and impactful.

    Customization for Impact: A well-chosen sticker size and shape can make or break your advertising efforts. It’s crucial to match these elements with your brand identity and the message you wish to convey, ensuring your stickers enhance rather than detract from your brand image.

    Cost-Effectiveness of Sticker Marketing

    Unbeatable ROI: With their low cost and high potential for visibility, custom vinyl stickers offer an exceptional return on investment. A modest budget can yield thousands of stickers, each serving as a mobile billboard for your brand.

    Enhancing Your Marketing Mix with Mobile Messaging

    Bumper Stickers: The Moving Billboard: Incorporating bumper stickers into your marketing strategy can significantly amplify your message. As part of a comprehensive marketing campaign, they reinforce your presence across various media at a fraction of the cost, demonstrating the power of integrated marketing strategies.

    Conclusion: The Sticky Advantage

    Vinyl stickers are not just an advertising medium; they are a strategic tool that weaves together affordability, mobility, and customization. In today’s market, where differentiation and brand presence are paramount, they offer a tangible and impactful way to share your message, stick in the minds of your audience, and drive your marketing objectives forward.

  • ‘On the Road’ Advertising with Car and Truck Magnets

    Table of Contents

    With the price of gas today, you probably start calculating how much every car or truck trip will cost you before even stepping out of the door. We’re here to help you turn that around so you can start estimating how much money each vehicle ride is going to make your local business.

    Car and truck door magnet signs are an easy way to advertise your business while you’re out and about, just doing what you do. Go to the grocery store…get some new customers. Take the kids to school…get some new customers.

    We’ve all seen them; on the pizza delivery man’s car, the local contractor’s van door, and maybe even the neighborhood real estate agent. Vehicle magnet signs are everywhere, spreading the name and messages of local businesses as they travel to and from. One of the most affordable types of advertising, car magnets allow you to advertise your local business across larger distances without paying the high and recurring fees of running television, radio, or newspaper ads. Consider the ways car signs and magnets effectively advertise your business.

    Establish a Company Presence

    As a small or medium business, branding a company’s name in your local area is important for driving sales. Branding professionals have proven that consumers are more likely to use and recommend a brand if they know and trust that name when the time comes to make a purchase. In combination with that fact, we also know that building brand authority and credibility can be accomplished through the use of car magnet signage. Because car magnet signs allow your business name, logo, and phone number to become a common sight within your community, your business name becomes more credible simply because it is seen and known by more people.

    Economical Advertising

    Having an advertising plan is important for any business, regardless of what kind of marketing tactics are decided upon. In most cases, the more affordable the plan is, the higher the return that can be expected. While some businesses opt to purchase their employee’s company vehicles equipped with vinyl decals, this advertising route is unrealistic for several businesses. Because car magnets are budget-friendly advertising mediums that require no monthly upkeep, they make an excellent choice for small and medium businesses with a limited budget. Furthermore, their ability to be easily transferred from one vehicle to another makes them a preferred choice with businesses that rely on their employees to use personal vehicles during their shift.

    Cover More Ground

    While some people believe that only small and medium businesses use car magnets, let us assure you that even the largest corporations rely on them to promote their name over large distances. Limo services, large pizza chain operations, and many service-based companies alike rely on this effective advertising medium to move their business name effectively around town. While stationary signage (such as sidewalk signs, banners, and window decals) is usually limited to one specific location, car magnets are exposed to the public during traffic, while making a delivery, or simply commuting back to the office. Is your vehicle parked? Make sure to park so that people passing by can see your company’s information on the side of your vehicle.  You are constantly advertising!