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Engraved Signage

engraved sign

Engraved signage refers to signs where the text, symbols, or graphics are permanently etched into a surface—usually using a laser or mechanical engraving tool.

These signs are popular across Aotearoa in offices, factories, schools, marine environments, and public buildings because they’re durable, easy to read, and look professional.
Unlike printed signs, which use ink or vinyl, engraved signs are created by removing material from the surface. This makes the message permanent and resistant to fading, peeling, or smudging—ideal for New Zealand’s varied climate and busy workplaces.

How Is Engraved Signage Made?

The process of making engraved signage is precise and customisable:

  1. Design Setup: The sign’s layout is created using design software. This includes the wording, logos, or icons you want engraved. You can choose from a wide range of fonts, sizes, and styles.
  2. Material Selection: Common materials include plastic laminates, acrylic, wood, stainless steel, brass, and aluminium. Two-ply plastic is especially popular—it has a coloured top layer and a contrasting core underneath. When engraved, the top layer is removed to reveal the colour beneath, making the text stand out clearly.
  3. Engraving Process: A laser or rotary engraver cuts into the material to create the design. Laser engraving is fast and accurate, allowing for fine detail and clean edges.
  4. Finishing Touches: Signs can be cut into any shape—circles, rectangles, arrows, or custom outlines. You can also choose rounded corners or add holes for screws. Adhesive backing or magnetic strips can be added for easy mounting.
  5. Optional Colour Fill: For extra visibility, acrylic can be colour filled—where the engraved area is filled with paint to make it pop even more.

Where Is Engraved Signage Used in NZ?

Engraved signage is used in a wide range of Kiwi settings:

  • Offices & Apartments: Door signs, nameplates, directional signs, and status indicators.
  • Industrial & Electrical: Switchboard labels, equipment tags, safety signs, and control panel markers.
  • Marine & Outdoor Use: Boat signage, outdoor control panels, and weather-resistant tags.
  • Retail & Hospitality: Duty boards, Custom plaques, branded signs, and counter displays.
  • Schools & Public Buildings: Room numbers, evacuation signs, and facility labels.

Because engraved signs are UV-stable and weather-resistant, they’re ideal for New Zealand’s changing conditions—from sunny coastal towns to damp industrial sites.

Benefits of Engraved Signage

  • Durability: Engraved signs are built to last. They resist fading, scratching, and moisture, making them perfect for long-term use indoors or outdoors.
  • Professional Appearance: The engraved text is sharp and easy to read. It gives a polished, high-quality look that reflects well on your business or organisation.
  • Customisable: You can choose the size, shape, colour, font, and mounting method to suit your exact needs. Whether you need one sign or hundreds, we offer flexible options.
  • Low Maintenance: Once installed, engraved signs require little to no upkeep. They stay readable and intact for years.
  • Fast Turnaround: Usually within 5 working days.
  • No Minimum Orders: Great for small businesses or one-off projects. You don’t need to order in bulk to get quality results.

Choosing the Right Sign

When ordering engraved signage, consider:

  • Size and Shape: What fits your space or equipment?
  • Colour Contrast: Choose colours that are easy to read—like white on black, red on white, or black on yellow.
  • Mounting Method: Do you need adhesive backing, screw holes, or magnetic strips?
  • Environment: Will the sign be exposed to sunlight, chemicals, or moisture? Make sure the material is UV-stable and weather-resistant.
  • Design Details: Include any logos, icons, or special fonts you want. We can send you a preview before production.

Engraved signage is a smart, reliable solution for clear, long-lasting signs.

Whether you’re labelling machinery, organising an office, or adding a professional touch to your building, these signs offer durability, flexibility, and a polished look. They’re widely used across New Zealand and trusted by electricians, property managers, designers, and business owners alike. With our custom options and fast service, it’s easy to get exactly what you need—no matter the size of your project.
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