How to Make Neon Signs: DIY Step-by-Step Guide (2024) HDJ Sign

Neon signs are iconic for their vibrant glow and retro aesthetic. While professional neon signs can cost hundreds of dollars, making your own DIY neon sign is surprisingly achievable with the right tools and techniques. This 2024 guide covers everything from materials to assembly, whether you’re crafting custom home décor or signage for a business.

Materials Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to create a neon sign:

Glass or LED neon tubes (LED is safer for beginners)
Neon transformer/power supply (12V for LED, 15kV for glass)
Bending jig or heat gun (for shaping glass tubes)
Electrodes and gas (argon/neon mix for traditional signs)
PVC backing board or metal frame
Silicone adhesive and wiring tools

Pro Tip: LED "flexible neon" is the easiest option for first-timers—no gas or high-voltage required.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Design Your Sign

Sketch your design on paper or use design software.
Keep shapes simple if using glass (sharp bends are tricky).

2. Bend the Tubes (For Glass Neon)

Heat tubes evenly with a strip burner until pliable.
Use a jig to bend into shape (wear heat-resistant gloves!).
For LED neon, simply cut and bend flex tubing by hand.

3. Assemble the Components

Attach electrodes to glass tubes (skip this for LED).
Mount tubes onto the backing board with silicone adhesive.
Connect wires to the power supply (follow voltage guidelines).

4. Test and Finish

Power on to check for leaks (glass) or dead spots (LED).
Seal gaps with clear epoxy for durability.

Cost Breakdown

Material	Glass Neon Cost	LED Neon Cost
Tubes	$50–$200	$20–$80
Transformer	$60+	$15–$30
Labor (Time)	8–12 hours	2–4 hours

LED neon is 70% cheaper and safer for home projects.

Safety Tips

⚠️ Glass neon requires high-voltage training—consider hiring a pro for complex designs.
Always work in a well-ventilated area (argon gas is harmless but can displace oxygen).
Use GFCI outlets to prevent electrical hazards.

Why Choose DIY Over Buying?

Customization: Match exact colors/sizes (e.g., wedding signs).
Cost Savings: LED neon signs cost 50% less than store-bought.
Skill Building: Learn glassblowing/electronics basics.

FAQs

Q: Can I make neon signs without glass tubing?
A: Yes! LED flex neon (e.g., NEONflex) is shatterproof and bendable by hand.

Q: How long do DIY neon signs last?
A: LED lasts 30,000+ hours; glass neon lasts 8–15 years with proper care.

Q: Is neon gas toxic?
A: No, but pure neon is expensive—most signs use argon/mercury mix (handle carefully).

Final Thoughts

Creating neon signs is a rewarding project, whether you opt for traditional glass or modern LED. For beginners, we recommend starting with LED kits (like [hdjsign]) before tackling glass tubing.