Subway signs as wall art are a great way to add personality to a home or office. They make natural conversation pieces and can add style, humor, or a little vintage transit character to almost any room. If you’re looking for a hands-on project, making your own subway sign can be a fun option. With a little patience and the right materials, you can have your own design hanging on the wall in no time.
Here are the materials you'll need for your custom subway sign:
- A piece of plywood or MDF
- A saw
- Sandpaper
- Paint or stain
- Lettering
- Hanging hardware, such as wire or a sawtooth hook
Instructions:
- Cut the plywood or MDF to the desired size of your sign.
- Sand the edges smooth.
- Paint or stain the sign in your desired color.
- Print the names of your destinations on paper. Cut them out and attach them to the sign with a glue stick or double-sided tape. You can use the paper as a stencil or trace the lettering onto the board. A Cricut or similar cutting machine is another option if you want more precise or intricate lettering.
- Paint the lettering and allow it to dry completely.
- Attach the hanging hardware and hang your sign.
Prefer to Have One Made for You?
If DIY isn’t your thing, you can order a personalized subway sign from Transit Design. Choose the destinations, addresses, cities, or other meaningful places you want included, and I’ll turn them into custom wall art inspired by vintage transit rolls and subway signage.
You can choose from stretched or rolled canvas options, as well as a hand-painted Custom Wood Subway Sign for a more rustic, dimensional look.
To create your own, visit my Custom Subway Sign and enter your list of destinations during the order process. I’ll send you a proof for approval before your personalized artwork is produced.
Here are some of the benefits of creating a personalized subway sign with Transit Design:
- Personalization: Choose your own destinations, addresses, cities, and meaningful places to create wall art that tells your story.
- Quality: Your artwork is made using durable materials and professional printing or hand-painted finishing, depending on the style you choose.
- Options: Choose from several sizes and formats to suit your wall and budget.
- Proofing: You’ll receive a proof of your custom design before production so you can make sure everything looks right.
If you’re looking for a unique way to add personality to your walls—or a personalized gift for someone whose favorite places tell a story—a custom subway sign is a pretty good way to put those memories on display.


