A frame signs, also known as sidewalk signs or sandwich boards like the A‑Frame Sign, are a brilliantly simple tool for storefront advertising. These portable, two sided signs are hinged at the top, creating a stable A shape that’s easy to set up and take down. They act as a silent salesperson on the street, grabbing the attention of passersby and pulling in foot traffic. One study even found that shops using sidewalk signs saw an average 8.3% increase in foot traffic. Adding a single on premise sign can boost annual sales revenues by about 4.75% on average.
But to make the most of this powerful tool, you need to pick the right size. Choosing the correct a frame sign dimensions is key to balancing visibility, portability, and your budget. Common sizes range from a compact 18x24 inches to the more visible 24x36 inches. This guide will walk you through the most popular options to help you find the perfect fit for your business.
What Are Standard A Frame Sign Dimensions?
In practice, there isn’t one single standard size for A frame signs. Instead, the industry has a few popular a frame sign dimensions that are based on common poster sizes. These sizes strike a great balance between being noticeable enough to be effective and portable enough for daily use.
The most common insert sizes you’ll find are:
16 x 24 inches
22 x 28 inches
24 x 36 inches
You may also see larger formats around 25 x 45 inches, which are typically for heavy duty plastic sandwich board styles. The a frame sign dimensions you choose will directly impact how readable your sign is from a distance and how well it fits in your available space. A bigger sign can hold larger text, while a smaller one is perfect for tight spots and up close viewing.
A Closer Look at Common Sizes
Let’s break down the two most popular a frame sign dimensions to see which one might be right for your needs.
The Compact Choice: The 18x24 A Frame Sign
An 18 inch by 24 inch A frame sign is a smaller format option that is perfect for displaying graphics in tighter spaces. While it’s considered a small poster size, it still offers a great canvas for advertising. These signs are popular for their compact footprint, fitting easily on busy sidewalks or in narrow entryways without blocking foot traffic.
Despite its smaller size, a well designed 18x24 sign is very effective for grabbing attention up close. It’s a fantastic choice for local events, daily specials, or simple announcements. For tabletop promos, pair it with Table Talkers. Because of its modest dimensions, this size is also incredibly easy to handle. Many 18x24 models are lightweight and fold flat, making them a breeze for one person to carry and store.
The Industry Favorite: The 24x36 A Frame Sign
The 24 inch by 36 inch A frame is arguably the most popular and standard size for sidewalk signs. At two by three feet, it offers double the display area of an 18x24 sign, allowing for bolder headlines, bigger graphics, or more detailed information. This makes it a go to choice for retail and hospitality businesses that want to grab attention from a distance.
You’ll frequently see this size outside restaurants displaying menus on a Magnetic Letter Menu Board, at real estate offices announcing listings, or by venues advertising events. Its larger text can be seen from further down the street. While it is bulkier, its size and weight provide excellent stability. A typical plastic A frame holder for a 24x36 insert stands about 45 inches tall and can weigh around 20 pounds on its own. For a sign that combines this popular, visible format with a minimalist design, consider the Rounded Sidewalk Sign to elevate your storefront.
A Frame Sign Dimensions Comparison: 18x24 vs 24x36
When choosing your a frame sign dimensions, the decision often comes down to the 18x24 versus the 24x36. Here’s a quick comparison.
Display Area and Visibility: The 24x36 sign has twice the surface area. This means you can use larger fonts for better long range readability or include more details, like a full menu. The 18x24 is better for short, punchy messages viewed from nearby.
Portability and Stability: The 18x24 A frame is smaller and lighter, often weighing under 10 pounds, which makes it very easy to move and store. The 24x36 is heavier (sometimes 20 pounds or more) and bulkier, but this added weight makes it more stable in windy conditions. Some larger plastic models can even be filled with sand or water for extra ballast using a Sandbag for A‑Frame Signs.
Cost: Larger A frames use more material and are built to be more robust, so they generally have a higher price point. If budget is a primary concern, the 18x24 is an economical choice. However, the investment in a 24x36 sign can pay off by reaching a wider audience.
Choosing the Right Size for Your Space
Ultimately, the best a frame sign dimensions depend on your specific needs. The 18x24 is ideal for close range communication and portability, while the 24x36 excels at grabbing attention from afar and conveying more complex information.
Consider your business location. A cozy cafe on a narrow sidewalk might be perfect for a compact sign, but a retail store on a busy street will benefit from the larger sign to stand out. If sidewalk space is tight, a wall‑mounted Rectangle Blade Sign increases visibility without taking up floor space. Some businesses even use both, placing a Large Sidewalk Sign near the curb and a Letter Sidewalk Sign by the door. If you’re looking for a sign that balances beautiful design with durability, you can explore a collection of A frame signs to see different styles in action.
Frequently Asked Questions About A Frame Sign Dimensions
What is the most common A frame sign size?
The 24 x 36 inch size is arguably the most popular and widely used format for sidewalk advertising, as it offers a great balance of visibility and manageable size.
Are A frame signs an effective marketing tool?
Absolutely. Studies have shown they can significantly increase foot traffic and boost annual sales, making them a very effective, budget friendly advertising solution for small businesses.
How much do A frame signs typically weigh?
Weight varies by size and material. A smaller 18x24 metal A frame might weigh under 10 pounds, while a larger 24x36 heavy duty plastic model can weigh 20 pounds or more before adding any ballast.
What materials are A frame signs made from?
They are commonly made from weather resistant materials like durable plastic or metals such as powder coated aluminum and steel, making them suitable for outdoor use.
Can I get custom a frame sign dimensions?
While some manufacturers may offer custom sizes, sticking to standard a frame sign dimensions is usually more cost effective and ensures you can easily find replacement inserts like the A‑Frame Sign Face Plate.
How do I keep my A frame sign from blowing over in the wind?
Choosing a heavier model is the first step. Many larger plastic signs also have built in cavities that you can fill with sand or water to act as ballast, anchoring them securely on gusty days.
