How Hand-Painted Signs Set Cleveland's Best Bars Apart

Cleveland’s best bars know first impressions start outside—learn why handcrafted signage like Anthology’s means more than you think.

There’s a quiet revolution happening on the facades of Cleveland’s hottest new bars—and it’s all thanks to handcrafted touches like the elegant, gilded sign at Anthology Cask House. Hand-painted signs, delivered by pros like Alan Giberson of Old Soul Sign Co., are becoming the gold standard for local spots looking to show pride before you even step in for your first pint.

Why Handcrafted Signs Matter for Bars

Forget AI-generated graphics—nothing sets the tone for a taproom like a sign drawn by skilled hands. Walk by the front windows at Anthology on West 25th, and the old-world letters for "Ales, Stouts & Porters" send a signal: you’re in for something special. Owners Shaun Yasaki and Jeff Draeger of Anthology (and Noble Beast Brewing fame) are betting the first impression on the street is as important as what’s poured behind the bar.

Hand-painted signs create instant character and curb appeal
Custom lettering can reflect the bar’s unique identity—British pub, craft beer hang, or retro cocktail lounge
Research shows about one third of shoppers pick a venue based on sign quality alone

Meet the Man Behind Cleveland’s Legendary Signs

Alan Giberson may not want the limelight, but his work is everywhere you want to drink. Since launching Old Soul Sign Co. in Lakewood a decade ago, his brush has graced everything from Van Aken District storefronts to Kate’s Fish and, lately, both Anthology and Noble Beast breweries. His tool kit? Pencil sketches, old-school gold leaf, and the kind of patience that can’t be digitized.

Every design starts with penciled stencils, then hours of meticulous painting
Gilded glass letters for that classic pub look, using genuine gold leaf
His clientele includes some of Cleveland’s most beloved neighborhood institutions

Why Not Just Go with a Cheap Vinyl Sign?

AI and online printers promise signs in a snap—so why drop thousands on a hand-done job? Simple: you can spot the difference from the sidewalk. A hand-painted sign pops, sparkles, and promises you’re about to have a real, memorable night out, not just run through the motions.

Custom paint jobs develop a patina and feel unique to the building
Vinyl and digital signs start to blend together—nothing to Instagram or remember
Bars see more repeat visits and higher-quality walk-in traffic with standout signs

Crafting Vibes Before the First Sip

Yasaki of Anthology sums it up best: The guest’s experience starts before they ever taste anything. The look of the entrance tells you whether a bar values its craft, its neighborhood, and the folks it serves. If the sign is forgettable, what does that say about the tap list?

At Anthology, the gold script and playful menu of beer styles on display put you in a British pub mindset before the door even swings open. It’s theater, branding, and the ultimate mood-setter—without needing a single social media post.

Thinking of a Bar Sign Refresh?

Whether you own a rubber boots brewery or a crisply-tiled cocktail den on Detroit Ave, consider this your sign (pun intended) to go bespoke. Not only do custom signs boost your bar’s visual appeal, but they do real work bringing in new regulars and separating you from the neighborhood pack.

Contact a Northeast Ohio pro like Old Soul Sign Co. for an estimate
Factor in permitting and design tweaks—nothing worth showing off happens overnight
Remember: Your vibe starts with what’s facing the street

Cleveland’s bar scene will always have love for quality, tradition, and individuality. Investing in a bold, hand-crafted sign isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about showing you give a damn, right from first glance. So next time you’re walking down West 25th, pause a second before you step in. That sign out front? It already made your night.