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FLAT CUT ACRYLIC 
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METAL CHANNEL LETTERS 
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PVC FOAM SIGNS 
LED NEON SIGNS 
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CUSTOM SCULPTURE 
Etched Sign – Flat Cut Metal 
Etched Sign – Fabricated Metal 
ADA SIGN: UV-PRINTED 
ADA SIGN: FULLY CUSTOM 
Directory Modular Sign – Flat Etched Sign – Flat Cut Metal
Frequently asked Questions
What is an etched sign?
An etched sign is created by removing a layer of material from the surface of the metal using a chemical process.
The chemical etching method of engraving uses high-pressure and high-temperature chemicals to precisely remove material from a metal surface and create an engraved look.
First, a protective layer known as a mask or resist is applied to the metal surface. This mask shields some parts of the metal to prevent the chemical from etching them. Next, specific parts of the mask are selectively removed, exposing only the areas of metal that need to be engraved.
The exposed metal is then etched away by the chemical, while the covered areas remain intact. The result is a clean, precise engraving where the material is removed in the desired design. Using this method, the etching process creates depth and texture on the metal surface.
What is the difference between Flat Cut and Fabricated Etched Signs?
The key difference between Etched Signs – Flat Cut Metal and Fabricated Metal is the depth and metal construction.
Etched Signs – Flat Cut
- Construction: Cut from a solid sheet of material (like metal, acrylic, or wood) and often etched with a design, logo, or text.
- Dimensionality: Typically 2D, with minimal depth (depending on the material thickness).
Applications: Commonly used for plaques, directories, door signs, or other applications requiring a clean, professional look.
Etched Signs – Fabricated Metal
- Construction: Made by welding or assembling different components, often using materials like metal, acrylic, or plastic.
- Dimensionality: They are typically 3D, with hollow or solid structures that can have depth.
- Applications: Used for a striking, premium look on building exteriors, reception areas, or storefronts.
How can I use an Etched Sign - Flat Cut Metal?
Etched signs made from flat-cut metal are versatile and can be used in various settings. Since it’s made of either aluminum, stainless steel, or brass, the signage is guaranteed to last for a long time. Offer this product to clients who need a sleek yet durable sign for indoor or outdoor use.
Here are some ways to use an etched flat-cut metal signage:
- Corporate Offices: For logo displays, nameplates, or directional signage.
- Retail Stores: To showcase branding, product categories, or decorative elements.
- Restaurants and Hotels: For elegant menu boards, room identifiers, or lobby branding.
- Residential Properties: For address plaques, custom name signs, or decorative art.
- Events and Exhibitions: As temporary or reusable signage for booths or displays.
Are etched signs made from flat cut metal weather-resistant?
Can an etched sign be filled with paint?
Yes, an etched sign can be filled with paint. This is a popular option for creating contrast and highlighting specific details.
This is commonly referred to as color fill or infill. After the etching process, paint can be applied to the recessed areas of the sign to enhance visibility and add a custom look. The paint is applied manually into the etched areas using brushes or squeegees, ensuring that it fills the recessed parts of the design. Custom color matching is also available by sending us the Pantone Color Code.
Do you offer multiple color infill/paint fill for etched fabricated signs?
Yes. Color infill is available for all etched flat-cut metal signs. 1 Pantone color is free with every order.
If you need more than one color, each additional color costs $20 per color for the entire order (not per piece).
For example:
If you order 20 signs and need 5 colors, you pay for 4 extra colors only → 4 × $20 = $80 total.
You can specify your colors in the Instant Quote form (e.g., “Pantone 205, Pantone 2757 C, Pantone 102 C,” etc.).
What etching depths are available for Etched Signs?
The standard etching depth is between 0.008″ and 0.012″ (0.2mm to 0.3mm), which works well for most signs. If you need a deeper etch for more definition or impact, that’s possible by extending the processing time. Note that further etching comes with an additional fee due to the extra work involved.
Take note, the etching styles are called “Recessed” (Standard/Default) and “Extra Recessed” (for further etching depth) in our Instant Quotes.
Here are some examples of etched signs:
What are the edges for Flat Cut Metal - Etched Signs?
Square
The edges of the metal letters are cut straight and perpendicular to the face of the letter. This is best suited for contemporary designs and applications where a simple, unadorned aesthetic is preferred.
Available for: Flat Cut Stainless Steel, Flat Cut Aluminum, Flat Cut Brass
Bevel
The edges of the metal letters are angled or sloped, creating a three-dimensional effect. This design is ideal for a more ornate or decorative look.
Available for: Flat Cut Aluminum only (1/4″ thick metal and above)
What is the minimum stroke available for Etched Signs?
The minimum stroke size indicates the level of detail that can be achieved in the etched design:
- Standard Etching (Recessed): 0.01″ (0.25mm)
- Reverse Etching: 0.03″ (0.75mm)
A finer stroke allows for higher resolution and finer details in the design. Please note that our etching process uses chemical etching, where metal is selectively dissolved to create detailed text and artwork.
What is Reverse Etching?
Reverse Etching is a type of chemical etching where the background of the design is etched (or recessed), leaving the design or text raised. This creates a dimensional look where the lettering or logo stands out from the surface.
How is Reverse Etching different from Recessed Etching?
- In Reverse Etching, the background is recessed while the design remains raised.
- In Recessed Etching (our default), the design itself is etched into the metal, creating an indented or engraved appearance.
Do you offer Reverse Etching for Etched Signs?
Yes, we do! Reverse Etching is available upon request for all our etched signs—both Etched Signs – Flat cut and Fabricated metal.
If you prefer Reverse Etching instead of our standard Recessed Etching, simply leave a comment when placing your order.
Are oversized Etched Signs (Flat and Fabricated metal) priced differently?
What are your shipping policies & lead times?
