Sign Criteria | Signage & Graphics

Kasey Riley of The Fat Plant Society shares how she turned moss into a design material that supports well-being, cuts noise, and boosts aesthetics. She explains the science behind forced-dormancy moss installations, why no watering is needed, and how installations absorb VOCs and reduce echo. Hear stories of client reactions, installation logistics and cost—about $115 per sq ft including frame—and...

Heidi Wolfe from Wolfe Makes Art joins us to talk about her shift from art educator to full-time sign painter and muralist . She breaks down how hand-painted signs bring personality and history to modern streetscapes , and why they still matter in a digital world. Heidi shares what it’s like working with clients who don’t yet understand the value of craftsmanship —and how she bridges that gap thro...

The latest cover of Signs of the Times —featuring a young man with blue hair and black nail polish—sparked a firestorm in a Facebook group of sign pros. But beneath the online outrage lies a deeper issue: Who’s really building the next generation of sign makers? In this solo episode of Sign Criteria | Branding for the Built Environment , John examines the labor crisis in the sign industry —from un...

In this episode of Sign Criteria | Branding for the Built Environment , Reena and John explore the overwhelming, electrifying world of New York City signage —from pulsing Coca-Cola billboards to quirky corner shops and subway confusion.   Reena shares highlights from her recent overnight trip to NYC, where the signs of Times Square left a strong impression. John breaks down the tech behind dynamic...

Ted Redmer , Senior Digital Technology Manager at Alliance Franchise Brands , shares how sign shops can stay ahead by thinking creatively about everyday tools. Starting on a farm and ending up in sign tech leadership, Ted walks through major shifts—from weeding vinyl by hand to full-scale digital printing . We talk about where technology is headed, especially around automation and workflow tools t...

David Martino didn’t plan to run a sign business—he started with street art, then picked up formal training in art and architecture. Today, with 45 years under his belt, he runs Martino Signs , handling everything from small letters to giant sculptures, and even film props. David calls sign makers “renaissance men,” juggling design , fabrication , code compliance , brand standards , marketing , an...