Metal Neon Sign Frames

[DAVE THE NEON GUY]

Morning Friends,

I posted this about a month ago, but got now responses....I might be shit out of luck, but I thought I would try it again and see if someone out there in the business could help a poor neon tube bender feed his family.

Got a special request. Anyone know someone I can contact to find the metal sign brackets used as backings for beer signs? I generally use plastic and would prefer to continue using it, however, every once in a while, we all meet someone who knows more about what we do than we do....ever met that person ? I would like to find a supplier for these frames. I have a new idea for a neon project....actually, I stole it from someone else.....

[megavolt512]

Dave, ideally the frames are custom-made to the neon. I use 1/8 x 1/2 inch hot rolled flat stock. Mig weld it together into whatever shape you need. I find it best to position the cross slats about 1/4 of the way down from the top, and the same from the bottom. That way, you can rotate a tube support to grab at the top of the unit if needed, or rotate down in case something is in the way.

I even made a simple, single-purpose brake out of a barn hinge. You insert the end of a 1/8 x 1/4 flat into it, and it stops at 3 inches. Rotate the hinge up, and you have a perfect right angle. McMaster-Carr call sells the vinyl end-caps for this size stock - for a finishing touch. Don't forget to put on tabs for transformer mounting.

These are a bit more labor than plastic - but plastic prices have now gone up so much, I almost consider it a wash. These frames look great and last forever. I use regular spray paint (usually semi-gloss black).

Oh yes, I use a mig welder to stick these together. These too are very inexpensive these days. If you don't have one, the cheap Chicom's from Harbor Freight, Northern tool, or such will get the job done.

[paul321]

I agree with the above statements. Depending on the volume you need, if your doing only a few try this. You can buy pre cut 1/8" x 1/2" flat aluminum. Or what ever sizes you need and use a " LORDS" Product to attach them. Paint it black and your ready.