Yellowpop is a direct-to-consumer neon sign manufacturer based in Los Angeles
Yellowpop makes custom neon signs and sells them online without going through retailers or middlemen. The company manufactures its own tubes in-house rather than outsourcing production, which means you order directly from the maker. Their catalog includes pre-designed signs (like "Open," "Cocktails," or custom text) and fully custom designs where you specify the shape, color, and size.
Prices start around $200 for small pre-made signs and can reach $2,000 or more for large custom pieces. Lead time is typically 2 to 4 weeks from order to shipment. Yellowpop ships within the United States and to some international addresses, though shipping costs vary by location and sign size.
Key Takeaways
- Yellowpop manufactures neon signs in-house in Los Angeles and sells directly to customers online without retail markup.
- Pre-designed signs cost less and ship faster than custom orders, which can take 2 to 4 weeks and start at higher price points.
- All Yellowpop signs come with a transformer (power supply) and mounting hardware, so you do not need to buy those separately.
- The company offers a warranty on tubes and electrical components, though the exact terms depend on the sign type and purchase date.
How Yellowpop's pricing breaks down
Pre-designed signs are the least expensive option. A small pre-made design typically costs $200 to $400 and is usually in stock or ships within 1 to 2 weeks. These are standard shapes and text that Yellowpop produces repeatedly, so the cost per unit is lower.
Custom signs cost more because each one is made to order. A small custom sign (under 24 inches) usually starts around $400 to $600. Medium signs (24 to 36 inches) range from $600 to $1,200. Large custom signs (36 inches and up) can cost $1,200 to $2,000 or more depending on complexity, number of colors, and exact dimensions. The price also reflects the time spent designing the tube layout and hand-bending the glass.
Shipping is separate from the sign price. A small sign might cost $30 to $60 to ship within the continental United States. Larger signs can cost $100 to $300 or more depending on weight and destination. International shipping is available but costs significantly more and may take 4 to 8 weeks.
What's included with a Yellowpop sign
Every Yellowpop sign comes with a transformer (also called a power supply or ballast), which converts standard household electricity into the high voltage neon tubes need. You plug the transformer into a wall outlet, and it powers the sign. The transformer is sized to match the specific sign, so you do not need to purchase one separately or worry about compatibility.
Mounting hardware is also included. For wall-mounted signs, this typically includes brackets, screws, and anchors. The hardware varies depending on whether you are mounting to drywall, concrete, or another surface. Yellowpop provides instructions for installation, though the actual mounting is your responsibility.
The sign also comes with a warranty covering the neon tube and electrical components. Yellowpop typically warrants tubes for one year against defects in manufacturing and the transformer for the same period. The warranty does not cover damage from improper installation, accidents, or normal wear over time. Check the specific warranty terms when you order, as they can vary.
Customization options and design process
For a custom sign, you start by describing what you want: the text or shape, preferred colors, approximate size, and where you plan to mount it. Yellowpop's design team then creates a mockup showing how the sign will look. You can request changes to the layout, color, or size at this stage. Once you approve the design, production begins.
Neon comes in many colors — the classic warm white, pink, blue, green, red, and others. Some colors are brighter or more saturated than others. Yellowpop can also combine multiple colors in a single sign, though each color requires a separate tube and transformer connection, which increases cost and complexity.
Size is flexible but affects price significantly. Larger signs require more glass, more gas, and more labor to bend. They also draw more power and need a larger transformer. A sign that is twice as wide will not cost twice as much, but it will cost noticeably more. Yellowpop can make signs as small as a few inches or as large as several feet, though very large custom signs may require a longer lead time.
How long it takes from order to installation
Pre-designed signs that are in stock ship within 1 to 2 weeks. If a pre-made design is out of stock, Yellowpop will produce it, which typically takes 2 to 3 weeks before shipping.
Custom signs take longer because each one is handmade. The design phase (mockup and approval) usually takes 3 to 5 business days. Production then takes 1 to 2 weeks, depending on the sign's complexity and Yellowpop's current workload. Shipping adds another 3 to 7 business days depending on your location. Total time from order to delivery is usually 2 to 4 weeks, though it can be longer during peak seasons (like the holidays).
Once the sign arrives, installation typically takes 30 minutes to a few hours depending on the mounting surface and your comfort with tools. Yellowpop provides instructions, but if you are unsure about drilling into walls or working with electrical connections, you may want to hire a handyperson or electrician.
Comparing Yellowpop to other neon sign makers
Yellowpop is one of several companies that make custom neon signs online. Other direct-to-consumer makers include Neon Mama, Neon Fever, and Etsy sellers who specialize in neon. Traditional neon shops (found in many cities) also make custom signs but typically require in-person consultation and may charge more because of overhead.
Yellowpop's main advantage is in-house manufacturing, which means faster turnaround and lower prices than shops that outsource production. The company also has a strong online presence and clear pricing, so you know the cost before you order. The trade-off is that you cannot see the sign in person before buying, and customization happens through email or their website rather than face-to-face.
Other online makers may offer different design styles, color options, or price points. Some specialize in vintage-style signs, others in modern minimalist designs. Comparing a few options side by side — looking at their portfolio, lead times, and customer reviews — can help you decide which maker fits your needs and budget.
Maintenance and how long neon signs last
Neon signs are durable if treated well. The tubes themselves can last 8 to 15 years or longer with normal use. The transformer typically lasts 5 to 10 years. If either fails, Yellowpop can repair or replace it, though you will pay for the service and shipping.
To extend the life of your sign, keep it away from moisture, extreme heat, and physical impact. Do not leave it on continuously for days at a time — turning it off when you are not using it reduces wear on the transformer and tube. If the sign stops working, the problem is usually a blown transformer rather than the tube itself, and transformers are cheaper to replace than tubes.
Cleaning is straightforward: use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the outside of the tube. Do not use water or solvents, as moisture can damage the electrical connections. The tube itself does not need cleaning inside — the gas inside stays clean.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I return a Yellowpop sign if I do not like it?
Yellowpop offers a return window, typically 30 days from delivery, for signs that are unused and in original condition. Custom signs are usually non-refundable because they are made to order, though you should confirm the return policy before ordering. Shipping costs are not refunded. Check the specific terms on Yellowpop's website or contact their customer service for the current policy.
Do I need an electrician to install a Yellowpop sign?
Most people can install a Yellowpop sign themselves if they are comfortable with basic tools and wall mounting. The transformer plugs into a standard outlet, and the sign mounts with brackets and screws. If you are unsure about drilling into your wall, working at height, or making electrical connections, hiring a handyperson or electrician is a reasonable choice and usually costs $50 to $150.
What happens if my neon tube breaks?
If the tube breaks within the warranty period (usually one year), Yellowpop will repair or replace it. If it breaks after the warranty expires, you can contact Yellowpop for a repair quote. Replacement tubes typically cost $100 to $300 depending on size and color, plus shipping. Repairs are usually cheaper than replacements if only part of the tube is damaged.
Can Yellowpop make a sign in a shape I design?
Yes, Yellowpop takes custom shape requests. You can describe the shape in words, provide a sketch, or share an image of what you want. The design team will let you know if the shape is feasible and provide a quote. Very intricate or extremely large shapes may cost more or take longer to produce.
How much electricity does a neon sign use?
A small neon sign uses about 10 to 20 watts, similar to a bright LED bulb. A large sign might use 50 to 100 watts. Running a sign 24 hours a day for a month costs roughly $1 to $5 in electricity, depending on your local rates and the sign's size. Most people turn their signs off when not in use to save power and extend the transformer's life.