Blue Collar: Master Badass is Making Neon Signs the Old-School Way, By Hand

Blue Collar Episode 1: Take a look inside the workshop of Jay "Dirty" Gordon, master of fabrication, design, and construction of
1960's-style custom neon and metal signs. Blackout Signs in San Marcos, Texas has been creating handmade signs for clients like Red Bull, Lollapalooza, Absolute Vodka and more for the past 10 years. In the premiere episode of theCHIVE's Original series, Blue Collar, we explore Jay's history, philosophy, and his incredible vintage workshop.

[evansmw]

I can't remember how many times I've watched this video. Whenever I need a rocket or I'm lacking motivation I plant myself down for 10mins and soak it all in. Before I know it I'm back on the tools. Hats off to the chive for putting this together the way it is and to Jay for the inspiration.

[considercaption]

This guy is the epitome of whistle while you work! I love the energy!

[blownpony]

Nice metal and paint work. Been doing neon and cold cathode for 35 years. The neon work is just so so.

[jacobichee]

I've watched this video 4 years ago and I still come back and watch this video because it motivates me to learn Create and become passionate about what I've built. Makes me wanna keep building and inspire others.

[carlshowalter]

Totally Badass! Mineral Wells, Texas here.

[garagecncplasma]

Y’all are a true inspiration! Thanks so much!!

[rebfan]

@ 2:14 Pac-Man smokin' a J. Ya gotta love this guy!!!

[crazytoads]

I love this! Jay is keeping it authentic.

[punchline]

Very nice work. There can never be enough neon signs.

[lbrookeg]

I love his story and message. Born and raised Austinite right here!!!

[rba_c]

Bravo Chive! Excellent production. Awesome cinematography! Truly touching and emotional story. This is an amazing package and you guys rock.

[ottergreen]

I'm a sign painter and no where near the capabilities of Jay, but goddamn it's great to see traditional signwrites. People on YouTube calling themselves singwriters when all they do is click a mouse and print out vinyl sheets.

[darkknightad]

I dig this dude's work boy's got true grit !

[kylefain]

So damn cool!!! inspirational for sure!

[noahbryan]

everything about this was awesome, thank you

[clifftotten]

GREAT video. Very well done. What did you shoot with? I love the colors.

[woodnbikes]

This guys too funny. American made at its finest!

[nl]

Good on him,
Better to be creative and work qith your hands as your passion and be halfway broke but rich in soul than be stuck behind a desk, paid well but dead inside...

Rock on brother ✊

[paulhewson]

20 year tubebender get what your saying brother

[tyleradams]

Anyone know the song that's playing at the end of the video?