This is a concept for making desktop signs on the MakerBot. The sign was designed in Google Sketchup without too much difficulty. Google has a wide range of 3D fonts to choose from.

The files provided, produce the yellow sign.

The blue sign was created by modifying the Google Sketchup file as described below.

text and images updated 9.30.2010. .stl and .skp were NOT changed

To make your own sign in google sketchup:

• load file: sign_100921c.skp into Google Sketchup
• delete everything above the base
• extrude the base to the desired height
• rotate the blank sign to horizontal to add lettering
• add 3D letters as flat areas (make sure to uncheck the FILLED option)
• extrude (or indent) the letters, I extruded them 1 mm (.5mm might print more cleanly)

TIP: holes in some letters such as a and e do not always extrude correctly. to fix: --- erase one straight line on the hole i.e. one straight line on the inside circle of letter a --- pencil the line back in --- the letter should now extrude properly

• decorate back if desired
• rotate everything back to vertical