Whether it’s your logo, a lyric, or a cheeky phrase that sums you up — a custom neon sign is the boldest way to light up your personality. This neon sign guide will walk you through everything from fonts to fixings, and why a made-to-order glow-up is more than just décor — it’s a statement.
⚡ Why Go Custom?
Off-the-shelf signs are fine. But if you want your space to stand out — your brand to pop, or your home to feel like yours— custom is where the magic happens.
We’re talking:
- Names above beds
- Phrases on cocktail carts
- Storefront signs that stop people in their tracks
- Event signage that actually gets remembered
- Designing your own means no compromises. You choose everything. And we make it real.
✍️ Step 1: Choose Your Words
Keep it short. Keep it bold. Keep it you.
- Popular ideas:
- Names (business or personal)
- Short phrases: “Let’s Dance”, “It Was All A Dream”, “Stay Wild”
- Dates or initials for weddings
- Brand slogans
Pro tip: The fewer the words, the more glow per letter. It also keeps sizing manageable and cost down.
🔠 Step 2: Pick a Font That Speaks Your Style
Fonts shape the whole feel of your sign. You’ve got:
- Script fonts for romance and softness (bedrooms, salons)
- Block styles for power and clarity (gyms, shops)
- Retro throwbacks for that vintage neon vibe
Need help visualizing it? Use our Custom Neon Builder — preview every word in every font.
🌈 Step 3: Colour = Mood
Your colour choice defines the mood.
| Colour | Best For |
|---|---|
| Pink / Red | Bedrooms, weddings, bars |
| Blue / Purple | Gaming rooms, lounges |
| White / Warm White | Modern kitchens, offices |
| Yellow / Orange | Gyms, creative studios |
| Green | Eco brands, man caves |
We’ve got 15+ vibrant options — and if you’re matching a brand Pantone, just ask.
📐 Step 4: Size & Setup — Think Space
Where’s it going? A small name sign over a desk? Or a full wall light in a shopfront?
- You can customise:
- Width (from 30cm to over 2m)
- Mounting (clear acrylic backboard, cut to shape, or boxed in)
- Power source (plug-in, USB, battery)
Mounting tip: All signs arrive ready to hang, with wall screws, dimmers, and power adaptors for UK/EU/US.
🛠️ Step 5: Approve & Let Us Handle the Build
After you confirm your layout and spec, we build it by hand using high-quality LED neon flex — which mimics real neon but is safer, cooler-running, and way more energy-efficient.
Average build time: 5–10 days
Shipping: Tracked worldwide delivery
🎯 Why Smithers?
We’re not a mass factory — we’re a design-led furniture and interiors brand with serious neon game. When you go custom with Smithers, you get:
- Expert design support
- Fast turnarounds
- Personal service
- Premium LED neon signs built to last
Want more firepower for your walls? It’s all in the Neon Guide.
💡 Need Ideas?
Check out:
Neon Signs for Business & Branding
Or browse our gallery for 100s of custom examples made for real homes and brands.
🚀 Let’s Make Your Glow-Up Real
Start your design now with our Custom Neon Builder or message us with your idea — we’ll send you a mock-up within 24 hours.
No rules. No templates. Just your words in lights.
Q&A: Designing the Perfect Custom Neon Sign
-
How many words should you use for a custom neon sign
Shorter is better. One to four words max means bigger letters, brighter glow, and a cleaner look — ideal for names, phrases, or slogans. -
What type of font works best for your space
Script fonts give you soft and romantic vibes, perfect for bedrooms or weddings. Block fonts scream bold and modern — think gyms, storefronts, or studios. -
What colour should you pick for your neon sign
Match the vibe. Pink and red are great for nightlife or romantic spaces, while white and warm white suit kitchens or sleek interiors. Yellow brings energy, and green fits eco brands or gaming setups. -
How big should your neon sign be
Depends on the room. Desk signs can be 30–50cm wide, while shopfront or event signage might go over 2 metres. Always measure your space before deciding. -
How is a custom neon sign powered and mounted
All Smithers signs are plug-and-play — with options for mains power, USB, or battery. You’ll get wall fixings, dimmers, and a ready-to-hang setup straight out of the box. -
What’s the difference between LED neon and traditional neon
LED neon flex is low-voltage, safe, and cooler to the touch. It mimics classic neon without the fragility or fire risk — perfect for homes, bars, and events. -
How long does it take to get your custom neon sign
Once your design is approved, we hand-build it in 5 to 10 days. Then we ship it worldwide with tracked delivery — fast and fuss-free. -
Can you match your brand colours or logo
Yes. If you need a Pantone match or custom shape, just send your brand assets. We’ll mock it up and make it glow exactly how you imagined. -
Is a custom neon sign worth it for events and weddings
Absolutely. It’s the one décor piece that guests remember and photograph — and you get to keep it after. From names to hashtags, it adds serious style. -
Why design your neon sign with Smithers
You’re not just buying a product — you’re working with a team that understands interiors, design, and statement lighting. Our signs are built to last and made to impress.