Want to play something different? Teach you step by step how to make 3D signs, from idea to implementation!

Hey, friends backstage have been asking me recently: “You always talk about signage design, that kind of 3D sign that has bumps and convexes to the touch and pops out when you look at it. How do you make it? ” Indeed, nowadays, just a flat-printed brand is no longer attractive enough. For shop signs, corporate showrooms, and even internet celebrity check-in points, everyone wants to create something with a sense of volume and light and shadow effects that will make people remember it at a glance.

So today, let’s put aside those lofty theories and talk about the steps that a 3D sign needs to go through from an idea in your mind to finally hanging it up. Don’t worry, I won’t talk to you about a bunch of difficult terminology. I’ll use plain language to explain the key points to you clearly.

first step: No matter how fancy the technology is, ideas and design are always the boss

Don’t rush to find a manufacturer! The first step is to sit down and think carefully about where to place your brand. Indoor or outdoor? What feeling do you want to convey? Is it the sharp lines with a sense of technology or the charm of retro engraving? You have to have a rough image in your mind.

Designers are much happier now, they don’t have to rely entirely on hand-drawing, like CAD, 3ds Max, Rhino These software are our "digital engraving knife". At this stage, you have to cut the sign 3D model When it is built, it not only looks good from the front, but also how thick the sides are, how to fix the back, whether there are curvatures, and which parts should protrude... These all need to be clearly seen on the computer. This step is like a blueprint for building a house. You must not be sloppy. If the model is built well, there will be fewer pitfalls in the subsequent production. In order to see the actual effect, a 3D printer will be used to make it. mock up Come out, feel it, and see if the proportions are correct. Many discerning customers will ask for this step.

Step 2: Difficult with materials? Suitability is king

Once the design is decided, you have to think about what "materials" to use to realize it. The material selection of the 3D signage directly determines its texture, lifespan and price.

• Metallic style (thick and textured) ： Stainless steel, copper, and aluminum plates are often used. If you want that shiny high-end feel or a retro old-fashioned effect, metal is often the first choice. They usually go through Cutting, bending, welding, grinding , finally Electroplating or spray coloring It is molded, strong and durable, and can withstand the wind and rain outdoors without any problem.

• Acrylic style (transparent and fashionable) ： In fact, it is high-grade plastic, but don’t underestimate it. It is rich in color and can be made very transparent. It is perfect for lighting effects. Thick acrylic boards can pass through. engraving machine Directly carve out three-dimensional layers, or superimpose and bond several layers of acrylic of different colors to create a deep 3D effect.

• Emerging forces (playing with creativity) ： for example Resin material , can be cast and molded, and can be made very round and rich in details. ； besides luminous characters Commonly used Surrounding material , combined with LED lights, makes the 3D shape eye-catching at night, and it is even useful recently wood carving Make it old again and make it artistic.

When choosing materials, you have to consider the budget, use environment and the effect you want. There is no absolute good or bad.

Step 3: Eight Immortals crossing the sea, each showing their magical craftsmanship

This is the real "magic" part. According to your design and materials, the factory masters will use different "weapons"”:

1. Cutting and shaping ： laser cutting High precision, smooth edges, suitable for complex graphics ； Metal may be used waterjet cutting or plasma cutting ； For sheet metal, bending machine Can bend it to the required angle.

2. Carving and shaping ： This is the core of creating a three-dimensional effect. 3D engraving machine (CNC) is like a precision "milling machine" that can carve out undulating patterns and text on the board. The depth is controllable and the effect is very fine. This method is most commonly used for wood or density boards.

3. Splicing and assembly ： A complex 3D signage is often composed of multiple components, which requires welding (Metal), Special adhesive (Acrylic, resin) or Physical splicing , a master with good craftsmanship can make the seams almost invisible.

4. Surface treatment "make-up"” ： The formed blank does not look good. polishing Make metal shine ； spray paint Can be given any color ； plating Can bring chrome, gold, silver and other metallic textures ； distressed, antique Treatment can create a story of the passage of time. This step directly determines the "appearance" and weather resistance of the brand.

5. The finishing touch - lighting ： Many 3D signs need to be illuminated, which requires Built-in LED module , during design and production, it is necessary to reserve light slots, wiring holes and power access points in advance. How to use light, whether it is bright from the front or light from the back, is all knowledge.

Step 4: Floor installation is not as simple as tightening a screw

The last step is to install the finished sign firmly. Is the wall surface concrete, brick wall, glass or gypsum board? Different bases, fixing methods ( Expansion screws, welded keel, glue, hoisting etc.) are completely different. When installing, you must consider firmness and safety (especially large outdoor signs), and also handle the wires (if it is luminous characters). A good installation team can make all your early efforts appear perfectly.

So you see, the production of a 3D signage is really not just a matter of one or two sentences, it is a complete chain.: Precise design → Reasonable material selection → Fine processing → Surface beautification → Scientific installation , interconnected, each link requires experience and professionalism.

If you want to make such a sign, my suggestion is to first clarify your needs and budget, then find a reliable manufacturer with similar cases, communicate in depth with their designers and engineers, and let them use their professional experience to help you turn your wild ideas into the coolest and most practical physical sign. After all, ideas are valuable, and the craftsmanship that can perfectly realize the idea is even more valuable.