Glass neon sign workshop

Bars, restaurants, shops, event venues, interior designers, artists and private customers wanting a custom sign for a home or wedding.

A quoted price per custom sign based on size, colours and complexity, plus repair and restoration work, rentals for events and installation fees.

• Glass bending, learned through training or an apprenticeship
• Design and lettering layout
• Basic electrical knowledge
• Quoting and customer communication

• Training takes time, and good bending skill is not quick to learn
• High-voltage transformers and open flames: check fire, electrical and ventilation requirements for your unit
• Electrical signs usually need to be certified (for example CSA or ULC marking, or a field evaluation by an accredited body) before sale or installation. Check the rules with your provincial electrical safety authority, as they differ by province
• Many municipalities require a business licence for a workshop. Check with your city or municipality before you start trading
• Check how to handle and dispose of any mercury and glass waste under provincial rules
• Check zoning and whether your landlord and insurer allow glass-working
• Commercial general liability insurance, and WCB/WSIB coverage if you hire
• Customers may need a municipal sign permit, so check local rules before installing outdoors

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $10,000 to $40,000, depending on your workshop space, equipment and how much training you need. Good glass bending skill is not quick to learn, so allow for training time as well as money.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on how many custom pieces and repairs you sell and what you charge. Customers include bars, restaurants, shops, venues, designers and private buyers.

Electrical signs usually need certification, such as CSA or ULC marking or a field evaluation, so check with your provincial electrical safety authority. Also check fire, electrical and ventilation requirements, mercury and glass waste rules, municipal business licensing, zoning, and insurance.