Neon Signs Chicago — Hand-Bent Glass Neon and LED Neon by TFA Signs

TFA Signs hand-bends authentic glass neon signs at our Chicago shop using tube bending techniques refined over three decades. We are one of the few sign shops in Chicago still fabricating real glass neon in-house without outsourcing. Chicago has a deep neon heritage — from classic tavern signs in Wrigleyville and Bridgeport to retro diner signs in Pilsen and vintage bar signs in Wicker Park — and TFA Signs is proud to keep that tradition alive. We also fabricate modern LED neon flex signs for clients seeking the neon look with lower energy consumption and simpler installation.

Glass neon is created by heating borosilicate glass tubes over a gas ribbon burner until the glass becomes pliable, then hand-bending each section into the desired letterform or shape, and finally filling the tube with noble gases to produce the characteristic glow. Neon gas produces red and orange light. Argon gas combined with mercury vapor produces blues, greens, purples, and whites depending on the glass color coating. The result is the authentic, warm, living glow that LED products cannot fully replicate — which is why glass neon remains the premium choice for bars, restaurants, boutiques, tattoo studios, and anyone who wants genuine neon aesthetic.

LED neon flex uses flexible silicone tubing with embedded LED strips. It is lighter than glass neon, available in more colors and gradients, more energy-efficient, and does not require a transformer. LED neon is ideal for interior signage, open signs, bar signs, window signs, and custom decorative signs. TFA Signs designs and produces both glass and LED neon in-house, often recommending the right type based on the client's specific environment and aesthetic goals.

Neon sign vintage restoration is a specialty at TFA Signs. If you have a vintage Chicago tavern sign, a classic motel sign, or an old storefront neon that has gone dark, we can repair, re-tube, and restore it to operating condition. We also manufacture exact reproductions of historic neon signs for restoration projects and historic properties.

Neon Sign Pricing

Glass neon signs start at $300 for small simple pieces (single color, simple shapes or text). Custom glass neon signs with logos, multiple colors, or complex script letterforms range from $500 to $5,000 and up for larger or complex pieces. LED neon signs start at $150 for small signs. Custom LED neon business signs range from $200 to $2,000 depending on size, colors, and design complexity. Free estimates — call 773-267-6007.

Neon Sign Process

1. Design and layout — We create a drawing scaled to your dimensions for approval
2. Pattern cutting — Each letterform is traced and cut as a guide for bending
3. Tube bending — Skilled technicians hand-bend each tube section over the burner
4. Electrode welding — Glass electrodes are sealed at each tube end
5. Gas filling and testing — Tubes are evacuated, filled with appropriate gas, and tested for brightness and uniformity
6. Mounting and wiring — Completed neon is mounted on backing and connected to a transformer
7. Delivery or installation — We ship or install at your location

Frequently Asked Questions — Neon Signs Chicago

Is real glass neon better than LED neon? Glass neon has a warmer, more organic glow with visible tube depth and warmth that LED neon approximates but does not exactly match. For premium bar and restaurant applications where the authentic neon aesthetic is essential, glass neon is the gold standard. LED neon is a practical, lower-cost alternative for interior uses where the vintage look is less critical.

How long do neon signs last? Glass neon tubes typically last 8–15 years before needing re-tubing. The transformer lasts 10–20 years. LED neon has a longer lifespan of 50,000+ hours of illuminated use. TFA Signs services all neon signs we make and can re-tube older signs regardless of original manufacturer.

Can you repair a broken neon sign? Yes. TFA Signs repairs glass neon signs, replaces broken tubes, re-gases signs that have lost their glow, and replaces failed transformers. We service signs we fabricated and signs from other shops.

Contact TFA Signs for Neon Signs

Credentials: 3M Certified Vinyl Installers | OSHA Certified Installation Crews | Licensed Chicago Electricians | Licensed, Bonded & Fully Insured | 30+ Years in Business | 20,000+ Customers Served