Refined Signboards Designed to Travel the World

The Acrylic Signage Production Process

June 25, 2025

1. Design Phase

Vector Design: Use software like CorelDRAW or Illustrator to create vector graphics, ensuring scalable and lossless text and shapes.
Size Planning: Determine dimensions based on installation environment, considering cutting, splicing, or 3D structure feasibility.
Color Selection: Achieve colors through acrylic sheets (solid, transparent, gradient) or post-processing (spray painting/UV printing).

2. Material Selection

Types of Acrylic Sheets:
- Extruded Acrylic: Lower cost, suitable for flat signage.
- Cast Acrylic: Higher transparency and impact resistance, ideal for detailed engraving or complex shapes.
Thickness: Common options include 3mm, 5mm, 8mm, and 10mm; thicker sheets are used for dimensional letters or large signs.

3. Key Production Techniques

(1) Cutting & Shaping

Laser Cutting: High-precision cutting for intricate designs, producing smooth edges.
CNC Engraving: Suitable for thick sheets or 3D shapes, capable of bevels and complex structures.
Mechanical Cutting: Simple straight cuts, cost-effective but less precise.

(2) Surface Finishing

Polishing: Flame or mechanical polishing for glossy edges.
Sandblasting: Creates a frosted effect, often used for backlit panels.
Coating/Film Lamination: Adds reflection, scratch resistance, or color effects.

(3) 3D Lettering/Signage

Layered Bonding: Stacking and gluing multiple acrylic layers (e.g., sides and fronts of dimensional letters).
Thermoforming: Heating and bending sheets into curves or rounded edges (requires specialized equipment).

(4) Printing & Decoration

UV Flatbed Printing: Directly prints high-resolution images on acrylic.
Screen Printing: Ideal for single-color or Pantone logos, highly durable.
Back Engraving & Color Filling: Carving designs on the back, then filling with paint for a raised effect.

(5) Lighting (Illuminated Signs)

LED Embedding: Installing LED strips inside or behind acrylic for even glow.
Light Guide Panel Design: Laser-engraved dots distribute light uniformly (common for slim lightboxes).

4. Assembly & Installation

Bonding: Use specialized acrylic glue (e.g., chloroform) or UV adhesive for seamless joints.
Metal Bases/Frames: Stainless steel or aluminum supports for stability.
Mounting Methods: Wall mounting, hanging, or freestanding, considering weight and wind resistance.

5. Key Considerations

Scratch Resistance: Acrylic surfaces scratch easily; protect with film during transport.
Temperature Tolerance: Avoid high temperatures (>80°C) to prevent warping.
Maintenance: Clean with a soft cloth and mild detergent; avoid alcohol or corrosive solvents.

Applications

Retail/Hotels: Backlit logos, directional signs.
Offices: 3D wall signs, floor directories.
Outdoor Signage: Requires UV-resistant acrylic to prevent yellowing.

By combining these techniques, acrylic signage can achieve diverse effects—from minimalist to premium—to meet various visual and functional needs.