FAQs

What types of files can be used to create my sign?

Artwork used to create a sign is like artwork used in other forms of digital printing in that both forms of artwork must be computer-generated. However, artwork used to print large-format signs and graphics is unique and must be created differently to ensure that your sign or banner is printed with the highest quality and the most accurate colors possible.

Before submitting your artwork, please use the checklist below to ensure that artwork is in a usable format.

VECTOR ARTWORK Vector artwork is created in Adobe Illustrator or another vector-based program like Corel Draw. A vector graphic can be picked apart and modified.

Make sure that the art file is set to CMYK mode.
Turn all text to outlines. That is, make the text so that each letter is an individual object. If your graphic artist is unable to do this, then the font files used to create the artwork must be supplied to us along with the artwork.
Save the file as an .eps, ai, or .pdf file. These are the three best file formats to use for vector artwork.
Also, make sure to save the file for a PC (an IBM compatible system).

Does my sign need a permit?

While all cities have different rules about whether a permit is needed or not, most cities in our area require a permit for any new exterior sign. Obtaining a permit can take anywhere between 3 weeks up to 6 depending on which city and the time of year.
At James River Signs, we do not begin fabrication until after a permit has been obtained. We can help you in determining if your sign needs a permit and we can submit all the drawings and forms for that permit. The price for permitting will be included on
the estimate.

How much will a sign cost?

We get asked this question a lot when a customer first contacts us. While we can give you range or a ballpark we can’t give you an exact price until we get more information as all of our signs are custom. We are happy to work with you to get you an estimate but we will need some information before we can do that. For exterior signs, we typically will need your address so we know where we are installing and if permits are required. For vehicles we will need to measure the vehicle and have a discussion on what type of wrap you are wanting.

How long does it take to make a sign?

This depends on what type of sign you are getting and if the sign requires permits. Some signs take a few days to make and others take a few weeks. It really depends on the sign type and if we
are waiting on permits. Once we know more about your sign, we are happy to give you a time frame on when you can expect your sign to be finished or installed.

What type of signs do you make?

We make all types of signs ranging from wall graphics to monument signs. Take a look at our product list on our website to see all the different types of signs we make. Some types are listed below but we make many more. Wall Graphics, ADA Signs, Vehicle Graphics, Channel Letter Signs, Lobby Signs, Monument Signs

What exactly is a vehicle wrap?

A vehicle wrap can be as simple as cut lettering on each door of your vehicle up to a full wrap. We can do cut lettering, a partial wrap, or a full wrap. Check out our vehicle graphics page to learn more about each type of wrap.

Is there a fee for a site survey?

For customers within our service area, we typically do not charge a site survey fee.

What type of font is the best for my sign design?

We typically tell customers to use “block” fonts with thick strokes. Script (cursive) fonts and fonts with thin serifs are hard to read and sometimes have to be modified to be fabricated.

What is an illuminated sign?

This type of sign is lit with LED lighting. The lighting can come through the front of the sign which is called front-lit. It can also come from the back which is called back-lit or halo-lit.
Sometimes a customer chooses to both back and front light a sign.