Carved Designs of Maine - About the Signs: Sign Options

About the
Signs

Portfolio

Testimonials

Sign Options

Ordering Info

Guarantee

About the Signs: Sign Options

We can create anything you want for a sign. Just because it is not described here, or a sample is not shown, doesn't mean we can't design and make it for you. Your sign design is of utmost importance to us and we will customize your sign to your specifications.

Images
Your sign does not have to be made of only text. We will carve any image you want on your sign, including silhouettes, simple pictures, and complex designs. We have prints of hundreds of different items on file, such as horses, birds, dogs, cats, flowers, and landmarks, or we can work from your picture, business card or sketch. Also, we can reproduce your company logo with amazing accuacy (see sample at right).

You may scan in and e-mail, or send through the postal service, a photograph, business card, or sketch with your layout dimensions for a price quote. Or simply tell us what you want to create and let us design it for you. Any pictures you send to us will be returned with the sign delivery.

Size, Shape, and Materials
After you have chosen your wording and any designs to be added, there are some more choices to make in creating your sign. The wood we use most is pine, but if you like, it can also be made out of cedar. The stain samples are on pine, so the stain on cedar may vary slightly.

Next, you must select a shape and size for your sign. We have a number of shape options available, including square corners, rounded corners, cutaway corners, scalloped trim, rustic trim and more. Remember the size of the sign will help to determine the size of the letters. Do you want a sign visible from a distance, or one to indicate the occupancy of a barn stall?

Lettering Styles
The next thing to consider is the style of lettering you want. Different styles promote unique feelings about the sign and what its use will be. The rounded Hobo lettering lends itself to a casual feel, while the Old English gives a much more formal effect.

Most of our signs are made with carved in lettering, but raised letters and designs are possible. In a raised sign, the letters, design, and border will be left raised, while the background is carved away. (see sign at right for raised design with carved in letters)

Colors
Next, the color of the letters and the background need to be chosen. All of our letters are brushed on, not sprayed, using high quality sign enamel. Do you want the sign stained to show off the wood grain, or painted a complimentary color to the lettering, or to your business or home theme. Outlining letters in black or another complimentary color, will enhance the letters and make them stand out even more.

Gold leafing is another desirable option for lettering on your sign. Gold lettering makes a very impressive statement that is beautiful and highly visible. We use true 23 karat gold leaf, which is actually extremely fine sheets of gold, that is applied with sizing. The life and richness of the gold leaf will be extended by never applying any polyurethane, or other clear product on top of the gold, so it can best stand up to the weather.

Finishes
Except for the gold leafing, all of our signs are finished using 4-5 coats (depending on porosity of the wood) of industrial grade urethane. This is an excellent, high gloss finish, but the length of time it retains the gloss is directly related to how much hot afternoon sun it gets.

Questions?
Let us help you. If you have any questions about the choices you need to make, do not hesitate to call, e-mail, or write for assistance. We are here to make sure that you get the sign that you want.