Neon: An Ever-Evolving Craft

Of the many different types of signage that we are blessed with in the sign-making industry, one that stands out for its unique properties is neon signage. While it is true that other technologies and techniques have come into the mix to offer alternatives to neon, it’s very difficult to truly replicate the look of neon signage.

Indeed, so iconic is neon signage that it can be found in regions all around the world. From the bright lights of Las Vegas in Nevada to shops, cafes, and restaurants tucked away down the side streets of quaint towns along the Amalfi Coast in Italy, neon clearly still has a role to play in the modern industry and continues to appeal to core consumers.

Such is the passion of those working in this market that they continually campaign for neon to be recognised for its true uniqueness and appeal. The skill of creating neon has been acknowledged for being in danger through its inclusion in the Heritage Crafts Association’s Red List of Endangered Crafts.
The news was met with gratitude from those working with traditional neon, given the tricky situation they face following the introduction of more faux neon options.

Over the past decade, the amount of LED signs and lights created to replicate the look of traditional neon has steadily increased, much to the confusion and disappointment of many sign-makers and end-users. Currently, many LED signs that incorporate typography or a handwritten style are advertised as ‘neon signs’ or simply ‘neon’, leading to decreasing visibility of genuine neon.

Working alongside the Heritage Crafts Association (HCA), which manages the endangered crafts list, Catherine Spink, company director of Neon Creations, last year launched an initiative to help end to what the company says is the false advertising of LED signs.

The campaign has been backed by the HCA and more than 90 other supporters, and both the UK’s Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) and Trading Standards have been involved in the issue of falsely advertising neon.

Making a Statement

Alongside this ongoing campaign, Neon Creations continues to do what it does best: create striking neon signage using traditional methods and techniques. Speaking to SignLink for this article, Catherine Spink, along with co-owner Tony Spink, speaks confidently about the future of neon.

“It is still relevant because while there has been a shift from neon being used in advertising, and on shop facias, in today’s world, people have become more interested in neon as an art form, and really buy into the craft side of it,” they say.

“If you look at neon more as interior décor as opposed to signage, then it can continue to thrive, even in a world of digital technology. People still love the nostalgia surrounding neon, and there will always be people that want statement pieces of lighting in their interiors.

If you look at neon more as interior décor as opposed to signage, then it can continue to thrive, even in a world of digital technology

“If you are talking just in terms of signage, then digital is certainly leading the way; this is evident by the decreasing number of signage companies that have in-house neon glass shops. Having said this, we do still regularly make neon for signage purposes, as opposed to just interior décor, as there will always be clients that want to use this format.”

The two co-owners go as far as to say that the increase in the availability of cheaper LED alternatives have made neon a more high-end and sought after product, with demand for certain pieces now higher as a result.

“In fact, we have seen an increase in the number of people that actually specify real glass neon in their enquiries, as they don’t want to use the LED alternatives,” they say, adding: “We also work with a lot of artists that want to incorporate neon into their own artworks.”

Why is Neon so Special?

With neon clearly having a place in the industry, be it for creating actual signage or more for decorative pieces inside shops, restaurants, and other environments, one cannot help but ask the question: why is it so special? What is it about neon signage that makes it such a unique option for customers?

Neon Creations’ two co-owners have a simple answer: the main factor that makes neon so special is the look of it. They continue: “Other products have tried to emulate the look of neon, but with its 360-degree glow, there is nothing quite like it.

“The fact that very little has changed in the process of how neon is made in more than 100 years also shows that it has stood the test of time; there are very few products you can say that about. Neon glass bending is also a highly skilled craft, which takes several years to master.”

Looking to the future and what it may hold for neon signage, as well as companies like Neon Creations that work in this area and continue to champion the value of true neon, the two co-owners remain steadfast in their support of the craft and how they go about promoting its value to customers and consumers.

“We are continuing our campaign to protect the term ‘neon signs’ as we believe that it is really important that this term is not used to also promote LED signs,” they say, adding: “It is important that buyers know that neon and LED are completely different products made from different materials and different processes.

“We have been invited to put our case forward at the next All Party Parliamentary Group for Craft meeting, which is a step in the right direction.”

In the interest of fairness, the duo is also keen to highlight the value of all signage. While neon has its use in some projects and applications, other types of signs may be better suited in other cases, and it is important for customers to recognise this.

“We would also like to say that there is a place for all types of signage, and the more choice that people have for their requirements, the better,” they say.

It is fair to say there is no questioning the passion of companies working in the neon signage market. In addition to being extremely proud of the work they produce and how they go about this, there is clearly a desire to protect the trade in the long-term and ensure that its uniqueness remains intact as the industry, and indeed the world, continue to evolve.