Design Guidelines for Custom Metal Signs

What We Offer

At Arizona Plasma, our signs are cut from 14-gauge steel. Metal fabricated signs are different from printing or engraving, artwork must be prepared specifically for plasma cutting.

The guidelines below help ensure your sign is structurally strong, visually clean, and built to last outdoors.

  • Artwork Must Be Solid Black & White

    • No gradients
    • No grayscale
    • No shading
    • No color blending

    If it does not work in pure black and white, it will not translate properly into cut steel.

  • • Minimum line thickness: .125” (1/8")
    • Minimum letter height: 1"
    • Small text under 1" will not cut clean.

    Larger signs allow for more detail.

  • Interior Letters & Structural Integrity

    Letters such as A, O, R, P, D, and B contain interior sections that must remain attached.

    To maintain structural integrity, we incorporate connection lines into the design. These are positioned to preserve both strength and visual balance.

    Without connection lines, interior elements would fall out.

  • Intricate Illustrations & Fine Detail

    Extremely fine details and intricate illustrations may not cut cleanly and can weaken the design.

    For best results:
    • Use bold shapes
    • Use clean negative space
    • Avoid ultra-thin script fonts
    • Avoid highly detailed artwork

    Simple, strong designs produce the cleanest results.

  • Illuminated Sign Considerations

    For backlit signs:

    Signs must have standoffs

    • Balanced spacing improves light distribution
    • Extremely tight gaps may block illumination
    • Consistent stroke creates a clean glow effect

    Bold, evenly spaced designs illuminate best.

  • If you are unsure whether your logo will translate well to cut steel, we’re happy to review your artwork before production begins.

    Our goal is to ensure your sign is both structurally sound and visually strong. Email us at azplasma@gmail.com

Our Process

Sign Colors

At Arizona Plasma, all custom metal signs and kiosks are finished using durable, outdoor-rated powder coat or specialty finishes designed for long-term exterior performance.

Our standard color selections are shown below. These finishes are selected for durability, UV resistance, and professional appearance across parks, trails, commercial properties, and public land installations.

Collaborate Openly

You’re part of the process. We keep communication open and decisions shared—no black boxes or surprises.

Plan with Purpose

Every project is different. We stay flexible and responsive to make sure the process fits your flow—not the other way around.

Plan with Purpose

When we deliver, it’s not just a finished product—it’s a solution you can trust, backed by real care and effort.

Past Project

The Atlas Project

A bold reimagining of a timeless brand.

View Project

  • "Creative, reliable, and genuinely passionate about what they do."

    Former Customer

  • "A professional team that delivers on their promises."

    Former Customer

  • "Their attention to detail and commitment to quality truly stood out. We’ve already recommended them to others."

    Former Customer

Let’s Work Together

If you're interested in working with us, complete the form with a few details about your project. We'll review your message and get back to you within 48 hours.