Field Trip: Star Signs

 

http://starsignsllc.com/

 

INDD 508 Materials & Processes 

Field Trip Notes
Who is/ what is Star Signs?

• They are a sign manufacturer located in Lawrence, Kansas.

Products & Services: What do they do/ what do they make?

• Star Signs makes custom signage and environmental graphics, as well as other various way-finding packages.

Vocabulary Terms & Definitions (Materials):

• Star Signs uses a wide variety of materials. A common material used is aluminum for their signage since it is relatively easy to manipulate, cheaper than steel, and retains its production ready finish for much longer than steel.

Forming Technologies:

•  They use rollers and breakers for materials that require shaping such as aluminum.

Cutting Technologies:

• A 8x12' CNC machine and router are commonly used at Star Signs. The router uses CAD base software to route materials. However, the tools located on sight are somewhat limited in their capabilities to manipulate materials. For example, Star Signs cannot transform aluminum that is thicker than half an inch. In such scenarios, Star Signs simply outsources their work to other companies that can complete their work. Such companies may include Gemini, High Tech Laser, and P1.

Joining Technologies:

• Digital printing is used to produce vinyls and aluminum.

Finishing Technologies:

• Star Signs has their own Matthews Paint intermixing paint system and spray booth. They also have a machine for color matching. Star Signs also has their custom faux and patina finishes which they did not disclose during the tour.

Overall Impressions/ Epiphanes/ Aha Moments?

• I will never really look at signs the same way as I did before. As everyday life is seemingly hectic at times, one does not take the time to look at common things such as signage and wonder who produces them and how they are produced. After taking the field trip to Star Signs, I found myself appreciating signs more than I had before. For example, I had no idea that the green signs that hang by the street lights around Lawrence were actually illuminated by their very own light. When walking to and from campus, I find myself looking at signs more often and think of the ways they are produce, and wonder if they come from Star Signs.