Frequently Asked Questions
Signage is one of the best investments for your business. It gives you an identity, helps customers locate your business, and provides 24-hour advertising.
Vinyl lettering includes lettering, numbering, or shapes that are individually cut out from a sheet of solid colored vinyl and then pre-spaced and placed onto pre-masked transfer tape. This allows the lettering to be easily installed as one piece, creating a clean and professional look. Vinyl letters can be applied to most any surface that is clean, smooth, nonporous, and wax-free.
Regulations vary from city to city. You will need to check with your city's planning department for more information. Generally, you do not need a permit to hang a banner, put graphics on a storefront window, or set up a sandwich board, but there may be regulations to follow. We can provide you with the necessary drawings to submit to your city planning department if needed.
Every project is different and is based on what is currently in process at our shop. If you are looking for a larger sign, a typical time frame is up to 10 business days after the proof is approved. We try to work with everyone and fit things in when we can. If you need something sooner, just ask and we will try to accommodate.
Most vinyl has a 5 to 7 year life span. We always us high performance vinyl for any project that will be outside and needs to last. Calendered vinyl (low cost, minimal life) is available for certain projects indoors.
We work with many different types of materials including polymetal, PVC, corrugated plastic (coroplast), lexan, vinyl banner, vinyl and more. The products used depends on the clients needs.
Yes. Prices vary depending on the type of vehicle and how much of the vehicle is wrapped. Give us a call or email sierradesign@yahoo.com for more information.
Sierra Design Signs does not install signs, but we can give you recommendations if you need them. We do install vinyl lettering on location at your business.
To removing old decals, we recommend using a heat gun. If the graphic is on glass you can carefully use a razor blade, along with a heat gun. Do not use sharp or hard objects to scrape letters off non glass surfaces. This will scratch the surface. When using a heat gun, special care must be taken to not over heat the area you are working on. An adhesive remover can be used to clean up any remaining glue residue after the vinyl is removed.
As long as the area where the magnet will be applied is clean and dry without any protrusions or dents, it will not harm your vehicle. If moisture is trapped under the magnet, rust can occur. If using a magnet for a long period of time, you must remove and clean behind them weekly. If you do plan to use a magnet long-term, we recommend you get a vinyl decal instead. There is less maintenance and less risk of someone stealing the magnet.
Vector files are best, .EPS, .AI or .PDF. We want your sign to have the best resolution possible. Vector files can be sized up and down without sacrificing the quality. They can also be cut on a plotter. We can work with bitmap files, .JPG, .TIFF or .PSD, but your artwork must be in “real size” and at 150 dpi. If you do not have proper artwork, we can usually recreate it, but a design fee would apply. You can email us your “print ready” or “cut ready” artwork, mail us a CD-R, CD-RW, DVD or USB flash drive. You may also stop in with your artwork. If you have questions concerning your artwork feel free to contact us by phone or email.
Not all .PDF files are created in vector format. If you are unsure, please send us the file and we will let you know.
Yes. We can help you choose colors, fonts and how the text reads. If you already know what you want, but need it designed, we can do that too. The best signage with the biggest impact is short, sweet, and to the point.
Absolutely! We create visual proofs for every project, big or small. This ensures everything is correct and positioned as per your requirements. You're responsible for checking spelling, sizes, and quantities. Your final approval on the proof confirms that all details and colors are accurate. Catching errors in the proofing process benefits everyone.
We recommend white, or a very light color be used on glass as it has the best visibility and will show better. Vinyl can be applied either on the inside the glass or outside. We recommend the outside of the glass as it provides the best visibility.
Yes, we do! We design logos and all types of print materials, including business cards, brochures, posters, flyers, rack cards, gift certificates, event tickets, door hangers, and more. Design fees vary based on your project. Contact us for more details. If we create a logo/brand identity for you, it must be purchased from us before use outside our shop. Once purchased, we'll email you the files in multiple formats. Need a different format? Just ask!
The cost of our signs varies based on size, material, and complexity. For a custom quote, give us a call at 605-717-1415! Larger signs require more material and labor, which increases the price. Simple rectangular signs are more cost-effective, while custom shapes and intricate designs may cost more. Vinyl is affordable and versatile, with premium options available. Custom design work will incur additional charges.
You can start the process in by giving us a call (605-717-1415), sending an email (sierradesign@yahoo.com), visiting our contact page and sending us a message, or you can stop in during business hours.
We understand that plans can change! If you need to cancel your order, please contact us as soon as possible. If your order is already printed or in process, cancellation won't be possible. Always double-check your artwork and proofs before placing an order to ensure everything is perfect.
We accept cash, checks, and credit/debit cards. For amounts over $500, we prefer cash or check. Note: A 3.5% convenience fee applies to credit/debit card payments over $500.
Our address is 3206 W. Fairground Loop. Unit A. We are in the Pedersen Excavating Building, which is located in the Industrial Park off of Exit 8 in Spearfish, South Dakota.
Our normal business hours are Monday through Thursday from 8 AM to 4 PM. On Fridays we are open from 8 AM to 12 PM. We are closed on the following days Christmas Eve through New Years Day, Thanksgiving Day and the Friday after, Labor Day, the 4th of July and Memorial Day. We may be closed in extreme weather, a.k.a. a snow day.
Andrea Milano started Sierra Design in 1996. In May 2025 Ryan Moore and Kyle Tuttle took over as the new owners.
Please call Sierra Design Signs at (605)717-1415 or email sierradesign@yahoo.com and we will do our best to answer any of your questions. You can also visit our contact page and send us a message.

