Professional Sign Shop. Anyone making money with their Shapeoko?

[DStanworth]

I was just curious if I am the only sign shop using the Shapeoko. A CNC is a common tool in the sign industry to cut letters and graphics. Being a small sign shop I did not want to purchase an expensive machine, especially since I've had no experience with a CAD table. I usually order my letters wholesale as I need them. I decided to invest in the Shapeoko and I have had great results.

Here are some of the signage i have produced. I mainly cut PVC sheet because it is so easy to cut and affordable but I have cut acrylic. Only tried to cut aluminum twice with mixed results. I've taught myself how to use the router so I've made plenty of mistakes, burned thru time and much material but now I can produce a consistent product with ease.

Would love to know if anyone else is making money with their machine.

Thanks!

[smweil]

I am not, but those are beautiful signs!

[Ric]

Those are really nice signs. Could you tell me more about the PVC sheets you're using, such as thickness, and where you get them? I haven't made a sign yet, but am thinking of doing one soon. I was going to use wood, but PVC sounds nice.

[cowolter]

Well done
There’s a very active shapeoko FB group, and I’d say > 75% of them use it for business
Quite a few stores sell items made with a CNC- examples include theatrical sets, architectural models, 3D foam cutting, signage or restaurant decor as you, furniture (or something like decorative cabinet hardware, lighting fixtures, motorcycle parts, camera equipment, etc

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