how to make cheap neon signs

In the spring we'll be doing a production of Sweet Smell of Success, a 
1950's, very dark musical. The script has many different settngs, among
them 
5 different nightclub scenes, sometimes changing scenes within a half page

of dialog. One of the things I'd like to do is come up with is some
signage 
with a different look/color for each of the five clubs. Just a big sign
with 
the name of the club. I seem to recall that there's a way to make good 
looking fake neon on the cheap. I'll probably want to make some fake neon 
and some bulb by bulb lettering, just for the different look I'd get. Have

looked around the web and google groups but haven't really found any great

ideas. I think the Yale Tech Notes had something but I don't have their 
books anymore.

Any suggestions or guidance appreciated.

Michael