New owner takes over Display Craft

Signs are a part of life, whether as advertising on the side of the road or decoration inside a shop. But for a business specializing in the craft, it’s more than just marketing — it’s art.
With a recent change in ownership, Display Craft Signs in Portland hopes to continue the tradition of making appealing signs for both local and national businesses.
Kyle Teeter took over as owner this month, and while that may seem like enough time to get settled in to his new position, all he’s been able to do is play catch-up.
“It’s only been a week. It’s still new, still kind of learning some things,” said Teeter, who also owns The Flower Nook in Portland. “It’s just been a week of trying to meet a deadline instead of really taking the time to think things out. … We’re just slammed.”
Creating signs has taken over managing the business for now as orders for spring sportswear need to be finished and an order for décor for an East Coast grocery store franchise needs to be filled.
But Teeter sees this as the fun part of the job, with his background in art flourishing in this kind of work.
“This work is fantastic. I love it — being creative every day, coming in and making things,” said Teeter, adding that he enjoys being involved in “businesses that are creative, are unique and provide a service to the community that you make with your hands.”
Previous owner Matt Billington was in charge of the shop, which creates screen prints, signage, window graphics, plaques and vinyl decals, for more than two years but chose to move on to different ventures.
Billington said it’s his entrepreneurial spirit that won’t let him stay in one part of business for too long, but he’s happy to pass on Display Craft to Teeter as he can continue to enhance the art aspect of the business.
“He’s very artistic and has a lot of elements to bring to Display Craft that have always been there,” said Billington. “The business is booming. We’re covered with work, which is exciting for Kyle. He likes that challenge.”
It’s one Teeter is happy to tackle as he sees it as an acknowledgement of the reputation of the 70-year-old business and its employees.
“We don’t even worry about competition,” said Teeter. “The staff has been here for forever, have built relationships with people. … The things we are capable of doing are endless.”[[In-content Ad]]