Desktop and Tabletop Signs Every Office Needs
I’m a proud member of the messy desk club. Scanning my desk right now, I see a handful of coffee mugs, a notepad filled with chicken scratch, some unused gift cards to our retail site, a Christmas card from 2013, and a coaster made from cork material that has been ripped in all four corners (it was a weird morning). I like to think of my desk as organized chaos, but truthfully, that is just a euphemism for total clutter. The one thing on my desk that doesn’t fit–the proverbial ‘diamond in the rough’–is the elegant, governor’s desk nameplate. A beautiful sign can be a silver lining to an otherwise messy work space. And if you’re like me, the desktop sign that you choose is one of the most integral components in your office.
The desktop or tabletop signage that you choose matters. Luckily, there is a vast array of options for you to pick from. I have clients all the time asking me “which desk sign is your most popular?” and to tell you the truth, there isn’t one. Every industry, every company, and every individual has different needs when it comes to selecting signage. Since desktop signs can serve the functions of a wayfinding tool, a branding tool, and an informational tool, you want to ensure that the sign you choose fits its intended purpose. Although tent signs are a good way to display information in your lobby, they’re probably not the most attractive nameplate option. Likewise, you probably don’t need an engraved plate adhered to a wood base to say “Hey dude, I’ll be back in ten.” Below are some examples of great desktop and tabletop signs that every office needs.
- Metal Desk Name Plate Signs: Look closely the next time you are watching “The Office” to see this style of desktop sign at Pam Beasley’s receptionist desk. I watch a lot of that show; I notice things. One of the most common sights in the workplace, metal desk name plate signs are a perfect addition to your desktop or tabletop. These signs are a great solution for a variety of reasons: (a) printed metal has great aesthetic appeal, (b) this name plate sign allows for an interchangeable insert, and (c) the frame, which is available in polished silver or matte black, is angled in a way that allows it to sit flat on the table while also exposing the text to passersby. Choose your ideal color of metal and enjoy this great desktop sign.
- Size: 2″x10″
- Price: $29.25
- View or Purchase here
- Changeable Message Desktop Signs: For those who like to frequently change out the message in their signs, this is the solution for you. Although many print shops would be happy to provide you with inserts (us included), the beauty of this sign solution is that you can easily change out the message that is portrayed by printing out your own design. For companies that are frequently hosting events, have weekly announcements they like to show off in their office, and more, this desktop sign is not only a great signage solution, but a necessary one. The lobby is the part of the workplace that is most frequented, so instituting a desktop sign like this is a great way to present information to your visitors. The sign is available in a variety of sizes, but the most popular size (for obvious reasons) is displayed below.
- Size: 8.5″x11″
- Price: $85.65
- View or purchase here
- Tent Signs & Tabletop Signs: The most infamous tabletop sign of the bunch is the engraved tent sign. Also called the “a-frame sign,” the “bent sign,” the “folded sign,” or “the taco sign” (when I’m hungry and everything around my office takes the form of food), this collection of signage is great for a number of reasons. First and foremost, it’s inexpensive. Secondly, the tent design allows for different messages to be printed on either side of this sign. These signs are engraved in folded, 1/16″ thick acrylic, and work as the perfect sign for lobbies, reception desks, food counters, tables, drive thru windows, and more. Although a variety of standard colors and fonts are offered, custom tent signs can also be created upon request. Again, many sizes and corresponding prices apply, but the most common size is displayed below.
- Size: 2″x10″
- Price: $17.00
- View or purchase here
- Double Insert Counter Signs: Double the inserts, double the fun! In actuality, you will double the functionality of your tabletop or desktop sign with this unique design. Although most customers purchase this sign to have their company’s logo on the top, and their employee’s name on the bottom, this sign can be used in a variety of ways. You can have two names on individual inserts, show the room number on one, show contact information on another, or whatever you deem fit. This sign is available in the form of gold inserts in a gold frame, silver inserts in a silver frame, black inserts in a black frame, or custom colors upon request. The engraved inserts can be interchanged and replacements are inexpensive to purchase, making this sign a viable purchase for a variety of offices and work spaces.
- Size: 10″W
- Price: $77.00
- View or purchase here
- Curved Interchangeable Desk Name Plate Signs: Alright, I know, the name of this product is a little wordy. But, don’t let that take away from how great of a product this is! The curved look of this sign adds a beautiful, stylistic touch, and the best part is: once again, you can create your own inserts. But, as far as your accountant is concerned, the best part is really the price (see below). We recommend durasol inserts for these desk signs, but metal, paper, and other substrates can also be slid in and out of the curved frame. A removable lens is also included with these frames, which ultimately makes them a phenomenal option for your tabletop. I already touched upon the benefits of curved frame design in my 2016 trends blog, so I won’t bore you with them here. Just know that this purchase is one that you will not regret.
- Size: 2″x6″
- Price: $14.00
- View or purchase here
- Solid Wood Desk Name Plate Signs: Appropriately named “The University” sign on our website, this name plate is taking you to school. (I blame our art director, Eric, for the shoddy pun). There are so many great parts of this sign that I really don’t even know where to begin. For one, the solid walnut base has a beautiful look and the rich wood grains are evident on all sides of this name plate. Secondly, text is “reverse engraved” on clear acrylic, meaning that it is engraved on the second side of the acrylic name plate, which creates a very crisp, frosted look. Finally, the gold screws on either end of the name plate are the cherry on top… well, technically, the cherries on the sides. This sign is available in two sizes, but I will touch on our most popular size and price point below.
- Size: 2″x8″
- Price: $30.00
- View or purchase here
- Engraved Office Signs – Gold Frame: Everything looks better in gold. Well, almost anything. If you are someone who desires sophistication in their signage, this is the perfect tabletop or desktop sign solution for you. Put your nameplate or message in a beautiful, polished gold frame and see the “oohs” and “ahhs” your office will receive when guests come to visit. Many colors of inserts are available, including the standard black w/ white text, and this sign fits perfectly within a variety of upscale office spaces, including law firms, governmental facilities, and more. If you are looking to make a great impression with your desktop signage, go for gold. Once again, multiple styles are available, but I will discuss the standard desk option below.
- Size: 2″x10″
- Price: $30.25
- View or purchase here
- Rosewood Desk Sign and Business Card Holder: You read that right. Not only does this desk sign come equipped with a name placard, but you also have a slot on the top of the desk sign for you to store your business cards. Instead of fidgeting around through pockets and cupboards for your business cards, store them right on your desk so they are accessible for clients and visitors, alike. The name placard comes in a variety of colors, and can include color prints on metal as well. I’m no Nostradamus, but I sense that this is the desktop sign of the future. Shown below is the most common size and pricing option.
- Size: 2″x8.5″
- Price: $31.95
- View or purchase here
The field of interior office signage is ever-growing, and likewise, there is a seemingly infinite assortment of desktop and tabletop signs for you to choose from. Whether you are a fan of a simpler design, or would like an elaborate nameplate that can also store your business cards, you’re in luck; here at Office Sign Company, we are devoted to making sure that every businessperson has a sign that is personalized to their needs. Visit our website if you are looking for new signs, otherwise, stay up to date with our social media by following us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Google+, or Pinterest. Thanks for reading 🙂
Written by: Jack Yakowicz
Marketing Coordinator at Office Sign Company
Contact at jack@officesigncompany.com
