Iowa 116 1926 (Iowa) (Road Sign) T-Shirt: Design Overview
This T-shirt design replicates the iconic "Iowa 116" road sign as it would have appeared in 1926. The artwork is a faithful visual representation of Iowa’s early state highway marker system, paying homage to a pivotal era in American road travel.
Design Elements and Their Significance
The central element of the design is the number "116," rendered in bold, black numerals. This numeral represents the specific state highway route, a critical piece of information for navigating Iowa’s roads in the pre-U.S. Highway era. The choice of font is classic and easily readable, designed for maximum visibility from a distance.
The numerals are presented on a white background, a common practice for highway signage of the time, designed to stand out against various backgrounds and lighting conditions. This color scheme reflects the standardized design principles adopted by Iowa's highway department.
The "IOWA" text is often included at the top, typically displayed in a simple font to identify the state. This establishes the context for the route number, linking the sign to the geographic location of Iowa.
Symbolism and Meaning
The design serves as a nostalgic symbol of a bygone era, the early days of automobile travel and the development of the American highway system. It represents the spirit of exploration, the freedom of the open road, and the ingenuity of early highway design. The sign is a piece of Americana, a visual cue that harkens back to a time before GPS and sophisticated road signage.
For collectors and enthusiasts, this design embodies a deep appreciation for history and vintage aesthetics. It's a statement piece, a conversation starter, and a tribute to the roots of modern transportation.
Unisex Heavy Cotton T-Shirt
A reliable classic cotton tee built for comfort, durability, and style. This unisex heavy cotton shirt is the perfect everyday staple — soft, structured, and designed to make printed designs look sharp and vibrant.
Product Highlights
- 100% heavy cotton fabric for structure and comfort
- Smooth surface ensures vivid, long-lasting prints
- No side seams for irritation-free wear
- Reinforced shoulders to maintain shape over time
- Classic unisex fit — works for all body types
Fit & Style Notes
Designed with versatility in mind, this tee works as your everyday go-to. Wear it true-to-size for a classic fit, or size up for a relaxed, modern drape. The mid-weight cotton balances softness and structure, making it equally great for layering or wearing on its own.
Style it with jeans, joggers, or skirts — its timeless silhouette makes it easy to dress up or down. Perfect for personal wear, printing, branding, or merch drops.
Size Guide
For best results, measure a t-shirt you already own laid flat and compare the chest width and length to the chart below.
| Size | Width (in) | Length (in) | Sleeve (in) |
|---|---|---|---|
| S | 18.00 | 28.00 | 15.10 |
| M | 20.00 | 29.00 | 16.50 |
| L | 22.00 | 30.00 | 18.00 |
| XL | 24.00 | 31.00 | 19.50 |
| 2XL | 26.00 | 32.00 | 21.00 |
| 3XL | 28.00 | 33.00 | 22.40 |
| 4XL | 30.00 | 34.00 | 23.70 |
| 5XL | 32.00 | 35.00 | 25.00 |
Tip: Compare these measurements with your favorite tee for the best fit.
Care Instructions
- Machine wash cold (max 30°C / 90°F)
- Use non-chlorine bleach only when necessary
- Do not iron directly on printed designs
- Do not dry clean
- Tumble dry on low heat
