Can I send only a photo of a sign I like?
A photo is useful for style reference, but accurate quoting still needs size, material, thickness, quantity, finish, and artwork or line files.
RFQ Preparation / 5 min read
How to Prepare Artwork Files for Custom Architectural Signage
The best artwork package for custom architectural signage includes vector or line files, exact dimensions, material thickness, quantity, color references, finish requirements, and sample images for the intended carving or surface effect.
1. Send line files and dimensions together
The factory cannot quote accurately from a beautiful reference image alone. CNC carving requires geometry, dimensions, thickness, and a clear understanding of which elements are raised, recessed, hollow, printed, polished, or painted.
CDR and PDF files are useful when they include size, material thickness, process notes, quantity, and effect references. AI, SVG, DWG, PNG, and ZIP bundles can also support review.
2. Explain the carving effect
Solid-material CNC carving can create relief patterns, borders, raised or recessed areas, double-side carving, hollow sections, 3D sharp-angle letters, and spherical characters.
For small hollow details, the design must leave enough space for tooling access. If the effect is complex, the carving effect file can be prepared during engineering review as an added step.
3. Name the finish process when possible
Common finish routes include spray paint, antique patina, oxidation, UV printing, polishing, brushing, plating, and clear-coat protection.
If you only write gold or bronze, the factory may not know whether you want real metal, a plated color, metallic paint, antique patina, or brushed oxidation. Attach a reference image or sample target whenever possible.
| Artwork Detail | Good Input | Risk If Missing |
|---|---|---|
| Vector geometry | CDR, PDF, AI, SVG, DWG | Unclear engraving path and shape |
| Thickness | 3mm, 5mm, 8mm, 10mm, 15mm, 20mm, 30mm | Wrong material or tooling assumption |
| Finish | Sample, Pantone, antique, oxidation, brushed, UV | Color and surface mismatch |
| Application | Door, wall, outdoor, bracket, illuminated | Wrong mounting or assembly route |
Key takeaways
- A production RFQ needs dimensions and process notes, not only inspiration images.
- State raised, recessed, hollow, printed, polished, painted, or lit areas clearly.
- Finish words like gold and bronze should be backed by a reference.
- Complex carving may need an extra effect-file preparation step.
FAQ
What thicknesses are common for aluminum, brass, and acrylic signs?
The source materials reference common options such as 3mm, 5mm, 8mm, 10mm, 12mm, 15mm, 20mm, 25mm, and 30mm, with CNC carving possible for thicker solid materials depending on design.
Can acrylic thickness differ from nominal thickness?
Yes. Source notes state acrylic may be about 0.5mm under the nominal listed thickness, so precision projects should confirm actual material thickness.
What should I include for color matching?
Include Pantone color, physical sample reference, finish photo, or a clear description of paint, metallic, antique, oxidized, brushed, UV, polished, or plated effects.