September 21, 2010

Subway Sign Art



Recently I visited Restoration Hardware where these huge hanging Subway Signs caught my eye and have had me obsessed ever since. There is one wall in my living room that needs a large vertical hanging. I love letters and numbers and the black and white graphic aspect of these art pieces. Priced at $795 each, this is a definite DIY project. Armed with inspiration, I am hoping to figure out the best way to reproduce subway sign art at a fraction of the cost.

Sign content - I decided on names of places that are special to my family and I.

Fonts - sizing and spacing on a Word Document. This is what I have so far (this may look a bit different than the final project due to compatability issues with word and blogger):

CAPE GIRARDEAU


3630 ½ SENECA


DIAMOND HEAD


SAN LUIS OBISPO


R E D M O N D


S U G A R B E A C H


HAYDEN LAKE


C A R M E L



Today I am off to the print shop to figure out how the least expensive way for me to reproduce the exact fonts and spacing I want onto a large blank stretched canvas.

My sister-in-law, Wendy is working on this project as well. Visit her post on SimplyBrookes for her point of view. If you have any ideas, or are inspired to join in, please comment.

Hopefully I will soon be posting a terrific replica of this Subway Sign art.

7 comments:

simply brookes: said...

H,
Love that you posted your template. Can't wait to see the finished product.

Diana Wagner said...

I have looked at these a million times - on etsy site also - purchased a similar but on wood last year for our remodel when it was reasonable - she's since gone way up in price! I will love to see how you accomplish this and I'm sure I will piggyback on your diy effort..:) Also saw one that was a sign post with different destinations on the 'sign markers'...

Anonymous said...

I have an etsy shop and a website where I make signs like you are looking for. The customization is free. Shipping is free on the website. Just thought you might like to consider my signs.
http://subway-sign.com
http://subwaysign.etsy.com

Kristy said...

I want to make one of these too...you are a couple steps ahead! Can't wait to see the finished product!

Pat Brookes said...

What about Whidbey Island?

Karen said...

I love this idea so much!! You are so inspiring Heath! Off to write my list now!

H Young said...

Hi Everyone,
Glad you can appreciate this form of art. Mom, you're right, I should add Whidbey Island. Also, I have yet to get the kids input on their places. I may have a new rendition soon.
OhIdaho, I love your shop! Your prices are so reasonable and your work looks beautiful. As far as sizing, I would probably want to order a poster 20x72. But first I would need to find out the cost of such a large frame. If too pricey, I will continue on my quest to make on my own.
Thanks for everyone's feedback!