The Googie style was a major architectural trend of the post-war period in the United States. It remains popular to throwback to this style, and [Wesley Treat] got the job to create a sign in this vein for a local trailer motel (Youtube link, embedded below).
CNC tools make just about any job easier, and this one is no exception. The smooth curves of the sign were carved out of several sections of PVC sheet, and stacked up to form the body of the sign. These were then sanded, coated in putty, and given a lick of paint. Steps like these could likely be skipped in the interest of saving time, especially given that few will see those parts once the sign is installed. However, [Wesley] takes pride in his work, and the final piece is all the better for it. It’s also important for the piece to impress the client, not just the public.
The front of the sign is also produced in PVC sheet, and given a coat of paint with brush techniques used to create a faux-wood finish. Vinyl is then applied to the textual and graphical elements in order to create a colored backlit effect. The sign is lit with off-the-shelf LED strips, and the whole assembly is weather sealed to protect it from the elements.
The final product is a beautiful piece, harking back to the classic Googie aesthetic and serving as a testament to [Wesley]’s skills. It’s a great example of how easy it is to create great work with the right tools and the proper attention to detail. It also goes to show how great LEDs are for signage, whether you’re at the beach or the lab. Video after the break.
Nice
This was one of the most enjoyable and satisfying videos (those *clicks* when using the chisel!) that I have seen in a LOOOng time. Thank you!
Once again, Hackaday has provided a new word to my vocabulary.
Googie.
Not going to lie, when I saw this headline I assumed it was a typo of some sort.
I was wondering if I was the only one that misread it as a “Google style […]”!!
That’s totally what I read it as, as well!
Wow, that a very very nice build!
My 2 cents: standard construction silicon compound is corrosive, not to be used with electronic, cable gland should be down, not up to prevent water dripping in.
It is acidic (so corrosive), but is that only when applied to electronics, or will it outgas and is it also harmful near electronics?