Another Option for Sign and Plaque Installation: Fence Post Mounts

Diagram of how to measure to mount a sign on a fence

Measure Twice

How do you show the world your new sign?

The answer is to mount it where it will be easily read and understood. Often that means on a fence or a post.

Of all the sign mounting methods offered by Atlas Signs and Plaques, the one that seems the most vexing is mounting to a fence or post. Not that it is difficult, but there are terms used that are just not part of our everyday jargon. Additionally, there is the requirement to measure carefully so that Atlas can install the mounting hardware correctly. So, get out the trusty tape measure and go for it.

How Atlas Signs and Plaque mounts signs to a fence

Easy once the measuring is complete

Now, if you do choose to order the fence mount, we’ll make your sign installation as easy as possible. And as with most things, the more preparation and information you send, the easier it is for all involved parties. Now, depending on the size of the sign, you might be able to mount the sign on one post. If you do that, we need two dimensions from you: the post depth and the post width. Measure these as precisely as possible. If the fence post isn’t square, tell us and we’ll figure something out.

However, for larger signs, you may need two (or more) posts. If you do, we need another measurement on top of the post width and depth. While you’re out at the fence measuring, find the center of the first post. Next, find the center of the second post and then measure that distance. This is called, somewhat uncreatively, the center-to-center distance. We may also ask you for the distance between posts, just for more information.

We’d recommend making a mock-up of your sign and trying different positions for where you want it. Just get a piece of cardboard that’s the same size as your sign and hold it on the fence. If you have a helper, take some pictures and we’ll work with you. If your fence is strange, definitely take some pictures so we know what we’re dealing with. Remember, the more information we have, the easier the entire process is.

Of course, there are other methods of mounting your plaque. Just click on the above photo to go to the Atlas Signs and Plaques, Installation Page for more sign mounting options.

The fence mount requires careful measurements, but with enough information, we can help you make it look great.

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The Historical Hibiscus, Now On a Plaque

Do you know what Hawaii’s state flower is? Hint: It’s the Hibiscus, and we’ve just added it to a brand-new Historical Plaque. We were just gearing up for the summer when we had a great idea. The train of logic is tangled, but understandable. Nearly Summer-> Thunderstorms->Rain->Green Plants->Hot Weather->Swimming->Islands->Hawaii!

Hawaiian Hibiscus Plaque

Hawaii's State Flower

Okay, maybe it makes less sense to you, but at the time, it was a fantastic train of thought and anyway, you get a great new plaque out of it. We feel that the hibiscus flower at the top brings a touch of elegance and floral decor, while the shape and font keep a serious tone, fitting for a historical or memorial plaque. We used the very popular Eccentric font for this sign because it balances formality, readability, and art. But remember, we can always change something for you with a custom order. Go to the Hibiscus Historic Plaque on the Atlas web site to learn more.

 

 

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Our Love-Hate Relationship with Feedback

Feedback image

Love it, Hate it

The only thing worse than undeserved negative feedback is no feedback at all.

The concept of open feedback is three-fold. It provides a method for the online customer to help sellers improve by making suggestions, it is a wonderful method of telling others about a positive experience, and it acts as policing system to warn others about sellers that may not live up to expected standards. Open feedback can be, and often is abused. This is more true when the recipient is not allowed to post a rebuttal to provide balance by presenting the other side of the story.

As we are all learning, business and personal online postings can last almost forever, maybe even longer than forever. More importantly, in many cases, they can not be undone or neutralized by either the poster or the post recipient. When negative or unfair, the recipient can turn into a victim with little or no recourse.

The worst kind of feedback is misinformed negative feedback. In principle, online businesses love feedback, especially if it’s something specific that we can do better or something that we did very well. What we dislike is negative feedback that could have been avoided if the poster had actually read or searched our site a bit.

I’ll use an example from an Etsy Seller to explain. The photos below are actual screenshots. Just click to make them large enough to read.Now, the first problem is that the feedback poster didn’t read the title. It says that the item being sold is a Modern Furniture Plan. The second problem is that he didn’t read the description either, where it also states “This woodworking plan[…]”. The third problem is that he didn’t use a touch of common sense in wondering how exactly shipping for a 48 inch wide shelving system would only cost 3 dollars and for that matter, how a 48 inch wide shelving system would only cost 7 dollars.

The worst part about this is the seller now has a downgraded reputation for something that the customer posted in anger before rereading the description. These are the kinds of things that drive us crazy. If you do something wrong and don’t realize it, fair enough. Mistakes do happen, but if you think you were getting something and it’s obvious that what you think you’re getting is not what the shop is selling, you shouldn’t then leave negative feedback. Take responsibility and read the entire posting or listing. Quite often, the answer to your question is just a click away.

If there is any moralizing to be done here, it would be to realize that any posting has consequences, both positive and negative. Think before entering your feedback. Do some research, send an email, or just take a breath. Apply the Golden Rule. And remember, there are no “take backs” online. Once you write it, it is there forever.

If you’re spending money on it, make sure you know exactly what you’re getting before you order.

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My House is a Very Fine House! A Photo Saga of a Remodeling Project

 

My house it is a very fine house. These are pictures of before…actually the house as listed for sale and pictures courtesy of the real estate agent.

Follow along on this blog as regular updates are posted. Watch the house as it is transformed into a home.

Front of House before the remodel

Front of House

Winter here now…so not a whole lot of changes to be done outside…but do see landscaping in the spring.

Kitchen Before remodel

Kitchen Before

another Kitchen photo before remodeling

More Kitchen Before

Ah yeah….I love old houses. The cabinets are pretty much original to when they decided to put cabinets in the house. My guess is these are from the 60’s Different heights, shapes and while it looks pretty nice I already know the truth as there is another blog forthcoming showing the tearout….yikes!

Master Bedroom Before remodeling

Master Bedroom Before

Pink carpet one thing but can you say pink carpet that has been in the house since the 80’s maybe 90’s…eeek.I just saw the border of wall paper on the walls…that isn’t there any more someone must have taken it down for me…nice.

Bedroom 2 Before remodeling

Bedroom 2 Before

One of two small bedrooms on the main floor. Little secret and pictures soon…there is lovely maple flooring under this carpet.

 

Bathroom Before tearing it out

Bathroom Before

 

More Bathroom Before ripping it apart

More Bathroom Before

Pink (surprise) and green and lots of cultured marble? Is that what you call that on the walls?

 

Basement Before the update

Basement Before

Attic Before the updates

Attic Before

 

 

So can’t tell by this much but it is loaded with paneling but a nice big space. Not sure what to do up here as I certainly do not need another bedroom. I am sure I will think of something stay tuned for more!

 

 

 

 

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Atlas Signs and Plaques Certified as a Woman Owned Business

Janey

Owner still working – sorry no time to pose for pictures

PRESS RELEASE: Atlas Signs and Plaques has received certification as a Woman-Owned Business Enterprise (WBE)

Atlas Signs and Plaques has received the Woman Owned Business Enterprise (WBE) certification through both the State of Wisconsin Department of Administration and through the National Woman Business Owners Corporation (NWBOC).

The WBE designation qualifies Atlas Signs and Plaques to be considered for contracts with corporations and government entities that seek vendor relationships with businesses owned and operated by women.

To promote state certified WBE’s and to make it easy for buyers to find them, the State of Wisconsin maintains an on-line WBE Directory.  Buyers can also obtain information about the products and services offered by Atlas Signs and Plaques through their comprehensive e-commerse site.

About Atlas Signs and Plaques

Atlas Signs and Plaques was established in 2008 and specializes in custom, artisan, metal coated personalized signs and plaques for homes, business, awards and gifts.

Atlas Signs and Plaques are created using modern materials and real metal coatings of brass, copper, bronze, silver-nickel, aluminum, and iron. All give the look and luster of foundry cast at a fraction of the price.

Selling primarily from atlassignsandplaques.com, Atlas has shipped to satisfied customer throughout the world. Plaques are used on diverse locations ranging from residential homes, to historic sites, to churches, and the US Coast Guard Academy.

Janey Freid is the sole Owner of Atlas Signs and Plaques. Janey has an extensive background in decorative and manual arts. Her leadership role at Atlas Signs and Plaques finds her both in the supervisory role, and hands-on from design to spraying the metal coatings. “I never tire of getting my hands dirty in the shop”. Says Janey

When asked about becoming a certified Woman Owned Business Enterprise, Janey said that she was very happy that she finally freed time in her schedule to pursue the WBE initiative. “It has been a bit time consuming, but I am certain that it was the right time to become certified”. She added

For more information on Atlas Signs and Plaques, call Janey Fried at 920-648-5647. For information on the Woman Owned Business Certification Program, visit http://commerce.wi.gov/BD/BD-WBE.html

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