Frequently Asked Questions

What is a sandblasted sign?
Sandblasted signs start the same way as cut out vinyl signs. We create vector artwork or use customer provided vector art or camera ready art. This vector file is sent to the computerized plotter which cuts the rubber mask. The mask is then applied to the substrate material (95% of our signs are High Density Urethane - HDU; the other 5% being cedar). Pressurized air and sand is forced through a gun with a ceramic nozzle blasting everything in it's path away. The only parts left raised are those protected by the rubber masking making a beautiful dimensional style sign. These signs can be enhanced with a variety of materials such as colored crushed glass smalts and gold leaf.

What is High Density Urethane (HDU)?
High density urethane was originally invented for NASA as a form of insulation on space missions. There are several different manufacturers. HDU is a closed cell structure that comes in a variety of densities and can be sawed, sanded, drilled and carved with ordinary carpentry tools. With the use of a special tool called a GrainFraim, we can even simulate the grain pattern of blasted redwood. Due to the closed cell structure HDU will not absorb moisture thus preventing rotting, warping and bug infestation. It works great for a variety of products however it must be reinforced for larger sign projects due to slight flexibility of the material.

• Advantages: HDU does not absorb moisture so it will not warp, crack, or bow like wood when exposed to the elements. It is slightly lighter that wood, which saves money in shipping costs.
• Disadvantages: HDU is slightly flexible. Under certain situations reinforcements or backers may be necessary. Some examples would be large signs mounted between posts and areas where they may take abuse such as high wind areas.

On some jobs we create a faux finish such as marbled, crackled, antiqued, hammered metals etc. In such cases many of the same products mentioned above are used. We can also add images digitally printed on vinyl and cut-out-background vinyl lettering.

For added class we use 23K Gold Leaf for lettering, crushed glass smalts and other embellishments. Appliques can also jazz up an otherwise dull sign.

Can you ship my sign to another state?
Yes. We can ship worldwide. Larger signs that are unable to be shipped via normal UPS or FedEx standards are shipped via freight carrier. We use FreightQuote.com to get the most competitive freight pricing available on large orders.

What forms of payment do you accept?
We currently accept Business Checks, Money Orders, Cashiers Checks, Visa and Mastercard. Sorry we do not take American Express or Discover at this time. Due to the custom nature of our work all orders require full payment in advance (special circumstances dealt with accordingly).

What are your artwork requirements? Can I use my logo or business card?
To avoid extra charges we prefer files in the following formats: CorelDraw v10 or earlier (.cdr), Encapsulated PostScript (.eps) , Adode Illustrator (.ai) and sometimes Windows Metafile (.wmf) and Portable Graphics File .(pdf). PLEASE CONVERT ALL FILES TO CURVES. In some cases we can use camera ready artwork or letterhead if it is clearly printed. All artwork must have good contrast so it can be scanned clearly. Excessive cleanup will result in additional design fees.

All designs are submitted to you for approval before production begins (normally via email). All artwork remains the property of Ambo Design, Inc. and cannot be used in any manner without written permission or design fee.

How long will it take to complete my sign?
Most sandblasted and dimensional signs are finished within 4-6 weeks (often even quicker). Completion time is dependent on overall complexity, size and shop workload at the time. Though we work hard on getting your sign done as quickly as possible quality is most important to us. We will provide an estimated completion date when you order. Vinyl signs, banners, window graphics etc. typically take less time.