In a world filled with visual images, companies and organizations must find creative ways to stand out from their competition. One of the most impressive and cost-effective ways is with eye-catching, custom dimensional signage.
Dimensional signs (also called 3D signage or three-dimensional signs) are popular among our clients because they bring company brands to life with depth and visual appeal that can’t be achieved in standard, flat signs. The “dimensional” aspect is caused by the layering of materials to make aspects of the sign really stand out and POP.
When a customer calls to inquire about a dimensional sign, we ask several questions. These questions allow us to gain a better understanding of the type of sign we should create:
- What does the sign need to do? How will it function in your space?
- Will it be an interior or exterior sign?
- Where will it be displayed? What surface will it be placed against?
- What size are you visualizing?
- What material would you like to use?
- What’s your budget?
- Have you seen other signs that have caught your eye? Can you show us examples and tell us what you like about them?
Once we know more about what the client wants to achieve with the sign, we can then get started on design and fabrication. That’s the fun part!
We use a variety of materials when fabricating three-dimensional signage, including acrylic, metal, wood, and PVC plastics. Here are some examples of dimensional signs we’ve fabricated using these popular materials:
Acrylic
Acrylic is a great choice for dimensional signs, because it’s lightweight, durable, and comes in a variety of thicknesses and colors. Acrylic is easy to cut with precision and detail using our CNC router. It can also be polished, engraved and bevel edged. Optional LED backlighting can add another layer of dimension to acrylic signs.
When choosing color, we often use standard colored acrylic. Acrylic can be combined with vinyl, paint or digitally printed to create unique color effects and added dimension.
We also use clear or frosted acrylic panels to create dimensional panel signs. Clients often select panel signs because the backer panel can be cut into various shapes. These types of signs are easy to install and move.
For a more sophisticated look, we often suggest using cut or cast metals. Popular choices include aluminum, copper, stainless steel, brass and bronze. Metals are most often cut into letters or shapes and then installed individually. Metal signs can be brushed, polished, painted, or even allowed to rust! The elegant metal signs below show plaques accompanying elegant three-dimensional sign letters.
Wood is a popular material for dimensional signs, because it provides a warm, welcoming feeling. Popular choices are birch, cedar and redwood, but signs can be created from almost any type of wood.
When creating dimensional wooden signs, we use our flatbed or laser cutter to cut letters and shapes. Each cutter provides a different effect. The laser cutter slightly chars the wood, giving it a darkened edge which many of our clients really like.
We also often use wood as an accent with other materials. The sign below shows router cut letters adhered to a clear acrylic panel with a middle wood accent board to really make the whole sign stand out.
PVC
PVC is another material that can be used for dimensional signage. We use this plastic material mainly for retro (80’s style) or child-themed signs. It has a matte texture and is durable enough to last many years. It’s also washable, so sticky little hands won’t be a problem with this material. 🙂 Check out the fun sign we created using dimensional PVC for TBK Sports Complex below!
As you can see, dimensional signs can be created in many different ways and with a variety of materials. If you have an idea for a sign, give us a call at (563) 424-5841, click on the button below, or come visit our shop anytime Monday thru Friday, 8-4. We would be happy to give you a free consultation and estimate for your next dimensional sign!
CONTACT US TO DISCUSS YOUR CUSTOM SIGNAGE NEEDS
In addition to custom dimensional signage, we also specialize in vehicle wraps, wall murals, architectural displays, and environmental branding. We’re located in Bettendorf, IA. We look forward to hearing from you!
