How to Make Neon Signs

Although most people do not have the supplies on hand to make neon signs, it is possible to make your own. Neon signs require working with toxic chemicals and glass tubes, so safety is a must.

Neon lamps are made with hollow glass tubes. They usually come in 4, 5 and 8 ft lengths. You start by shaping the tubes. To shape the tubes, the glass is heated with gas and forced air. There are a few different kinds of tubes. You can use "hard" glass tubes or "soft" glass tubes. Depending on which you choose, the working range for glass is 1600 to 2200 degrees Fahrenheit.