Posted on June 20th, 2023.

If you've ever been to any sort of business that has existed, say, ever, you are sure to have noticed all the different kinds of signs that businesses display. However, have you ever thought about where the signs themselves come from?

Business signs have been around for centuries, and they have evolved over time to reflect the changing needs of businesses and the technologies available.

The Early Days

The earliest business signs were simple and often made from natural materials. For example, merchants in ancient Greece and Rome would hang bunches of grapes outside their shops to advertise their wares. In China, businesses would use red lanterns to attract customers. These signs were often very effective, as they were eye-catching and easy to understand. However, they were also limited in their ability to communicate complex information.

In the Middle Ages, business signs became more elaborate. They were often made of metal or glass, and they were decorated with images or symbols that represented the business. For example, a barber shop might have a sign with an image of a barber pole, and a tavern might have a sign with an image of a drinking horn. 

These signs were still effective at attracting attention, but they also began to serve as a way for businesses to build their brands. By using symbols that were associated with their products or services, businesses could create a sense of familiarity and trust among their customers.

The 17th and 18th Centuries

In the 17th century, business signs began to be used for advertising. Businesses started to use signs to promote their products and services, and they often used eye-catching images or slogans to attract attention. For example, a tobacconist might have a sign with an image of a smoking pipe, and a hotel might have a sign with an image of a bed. 

These signs were often very effective, as they could be seen from a distance and were easy to understand. They also helped to create a sense of excitement and anticipation about the products or services that were being advertised.

The 18th century was a time of great change and innovation in the world of business signs. New materials and techniques were developed, and businesses began to use signs in new and more creative ways.

One of the most significant developments in sign design in the 18th century was the use of symbols. Symbols were often used to represent the products or services that a business offered. For example, a barber shop might use the symbol of a barber pole, and a tavern might use the symbol of a drinking horn.

Symbols were also used to create a sense of identity for businesses. By using a consistent set of symbols, businesses could create a brand that was instantly recognizable to their customers.

Another important development in sign design in the 18th century was the use of color. Color was used to make signs more eye-catching and to create a sense of excitement and anticipation. For example, a tobacconist might use a bright red sign to attract attention, and a hotel might use a vibrant blue sign to create a sense of luxury.

How Did the Industrial Revolution Affect Signs?

In the 19th century, the invention of new technologies led to the development of new types of business signs. For example, the invention of electric lights made it possible to create illuminated signs, and the invention of neon lights led to the development of colorful and eye-catching signs. 

These new types of signs were even more effective at attracting attention than the signs that had come before them. They could be seen from a great distance, and they were often very colorful and eye-catching. As a result, they became increasingly popular with businesses, and they helped usher in a new era of sign design.

The End of the Millennium

The 20th century saw a great deal of innovation in signage design. New materials, techniques, and technologies were developed, and businesses began to use signs in new and more creative ways.

One of the most significant developments in signage design in the early 20th century was the use of neon lights. Neon lights were first developed in the late 19th century, but they became more widely available in the early 20th century. Neon lights were very eye-catching and colorful, and they quickly became a popular choice for businesses. 

Another important development in signage design in the early 20th century was the use of streamlined designs. Streamlined designs were inspired by the Art Deco movement, and they featured smooth, curving lines. Streamlined designs were often used for businesses that wanted to project a modern and progressive image. 

The 40s and 50s saw the rise of pop art. Pop art was a movement that celebrated popular culture, and it often used bright colors and bold graphics. Pop art had a significant impact on signage design, and many businesses began to use pop art-inspired signs to attract attention. 

The late 20th century saw the development of computer-generated graphics. Computer-generated graphics allowed businesses to create signs that were more complex and visually appealing than ever before. Computer-generated graphics were often used to create animated signs or signs that could change their appearance over time. 

Into a New Era

The 21st century has seen the continued development of signage design. New materials, techniques, and technologies are constantly being developed, and businesses are always looking for new ways to use signs to communicate with their customers. Today, business signs are more diverse than ever before. They come in all shapes, sizes, and colors, and they are made from a variety of materials. Business signs are used to promote businesses, provide information, and create a sense of identity.

The history of business signs is fascinating. It is a story of how businesses have used signs to communicate with their customers and to compete with their rivals. Business signs are a part of our everyday lives, and they play an important role in the world of commerce.

At Golden Brush Signs, we are dedicated to providing businesses with professional and eye-catching signs that effectively promote their brand. Our team of experts offers superior design, creation, and installation services that are tailored to meet the unique needs of each of our customers. We pride ourselves on providing reliable and timely services that truly bring your vision to life. So, if you're looking for a sign that stands out, don't hesitate to contact us at [email protected]. We would be more than happy to answer any questions you may have and provide you with a quote for your project. Choose Golden Brush Signs for the best in business sign design, creation, and installation services!