About Us
For more than 20 years, Beartooth Signs & Design has been helping businesses, developers, municipalities, and I’m Al Schwämmlein, founder of Beartooth Signs and a proud 30-year Bozeman resident. My journey started far from Montana, I was born in Singapore, spent nine years in Belgium, finished high school in the Midwest, and moved to Bozeman in 1997. I graduated from Montana State University in 2003 with a degree in Graphic Design, while also studying sculpture. Blending the clarity of design with the creativity of 3D form became a perfect foundation for sign making. My German heritage and studies in Germany and Italy have shaped how I see design and branding. Living and studying across Asia, Europe, and the U.S. gave me a unique perspective on how brands communicate to different cultures and price points. My background in construction and house-flipping, managing projects from the ground up, connects me directly to builders, developers, and architects. I understand the challenges they face and how signage integrates seamlessly into larger projects.
Award Winner August 2018 Signs Of The Times Magazine
Who We Are
At Beartooth Signs, we serve clients across Southwest Montana and the Northwest region. From a single storefront sign to a development-wide package, we build signage that tells your story and leaves a lasting impression. We are a Matthews Certified Paint Shop and a 3M Preferred Installer. Our in-house fabrication includes CNC routing, hand-carved woodwork, TIG and MIG welding, steel and aluminum structures, and fully engineered monument foundations.
Our Approach
Every project starts with listening. From permitting and design sketches to fabrication and installation, we handle the details so you can focus on your business. The result? Signs that look good, work hard, and withstand Montana’s toughest conditions.
What We Do
We specialize in:
Metal & Welded Fabrication
TIG-welded aluminum, MIG-welded steel, corten features, and custom structural frames. Built to withstand Montana weather.
Lighting & Specialty Signs
Solar-lit features, internally lit cabinets, LED edge-lit panels, and custom illuminated structures.
Vinyl & Printed Graphics
Large-format printing, wraps, ADA signage, wayfinding packages, and wall treatments — installed by our 3M-certified team.
Custom Carved & Wood Signs
Timeless craftsmanship using both traditional carving and CNC routing. Perfect for ranch entrances, lodges, and businesses that want character and longevity.
Paint & Finishing
Matthews Paint Certified — unmatched durability, fade resistance, and limitless color matching. Powder coating available for extra protection.
Over two decades of proven experience
A portfolio spanning small businesses, municipalities, and large-scale developments
Why Choose us?
Commitment to high-quality materials and craftsmanship
Personalized service from a local team that cares about your success
Start Your Project Today
Whether you need a single sign or a complete signage package, Beartooth Signs & Design is here to help. Let’s create something that guides, informs, and inspires.