Autocad?

[t_vandemark]

Hey guys, we have been asked to design and construct a sign and brick pillars for a subdivision. The client has asked that we design it in autocad that way he can see everything before we build it. just wondering what software you are using to do this.

[pkirby]

AutoCAD's native file format is .dwg. Most CAD software systems will have an option to save as a .dwg so he will still be able to open and view it. I'm currently using Rhino and save files all the time in the .dwg format. Works great.

[MogulTx]

If you don't have a program, I will recommend DesignCad. You can find version 20 on ebay for between $29 and $49. It will allow you to export to a DXF or to a DWG which he should be able to import or open with AutoCAD.

I use DesignCAD or TurboCAD ( high version of DesignCAD) all the time. They are excellent and CHEAP compared to what else is out there.

[jerry_stanek]

I use auto cad and it will open dxf files and save to them so anything that exports to dfg or dfx should be fine.

[paul_z]

Tyler,

I'd strongly recommend that you not try to learn CAD for a current job. The learning curve is steep and it takes weeks to months to get proficient.

See if you can find someone to help who knows CAD.

Paul Z

[t_vandemark]

Paul are you volunteering? Hahaha

[jerry_stanek]

What program do you use to design in?

[joe]

I'd suggest follow the leaders.

That is to say use the common design programs used by the pro's. One of the best and cheapest is Corel Draw. You don't need the latest version any of the older one work just fine. The bonus is all the good fronts that come with the package. I think there about 200 p.

I seldom use Corel because I'm heavily invested in Illustator, Flexi, Photoshop and ArtCam. However Corel has the largest import features of any program out there.

To quickly get up to speed I'd suggest joining www.lynda.com You can join up and exit membership at any time. I think it costs $25. a month.

I gotta laugh at the folks using architectural design programs.

[curtiss]

Do you know the exact size of the brick they want you to use ?

If you can provide a few dimensions and the basic "plan view" of what you are trying to build. I can draw something up in a few minutes and send you a dwg or dxf.

or Your local tech school probably has a cad lab. Wander up there with a few doughnuts and some student or teacher may give you a hand.

Brick work does require a proper foundation to below frost level.

[joe]

Tyler,

How much knowledge do you have about constructing this kind of project? The reason for my question comes from your not knowing how to use a design program.

The one major complaint I have of this craft, there are no qualifications to take on this kind of work. No certifications or knowledge requirements are necessary. If you buy the equipment, does that qualify you to take on any and all work?

[t_vandemark]

Wow Curtis that is very nice of you. I am planning on heading out to the site in the next day or so to take measurements and what not. Once I do that I will send them your way and see what you think.

And Joe, wow great support-thanks. I have allot of experience in the construction industry, just because some software has me stumped that I'm asked to use doesn't mean I am green behind the gills on the rest of the project. I know all about the frost line and everything that goes into the cement, brick and sign work. I only asked for information on a software I have never used or heard of for that matter. I like that I can come on here and get/give support where needed and would appreciate others not assuming what I can and can't do. I guess that's my one major complaint.

[joe]

Tyler,

I'm encouraged to read about your construction knowledge and wish you the best with this project.

For years I've been doing my best to raise the standards of this trade. It's a constant struggle. The first and most important step is the concept. Design is what this business is all about. When sign artists take on a project, they begin with layout and design. That's what we all do. The idea of taking a bag of donuts down to the local VoTech grates on the nerves. That kind of thinking is what I've been fighting for years.

Knowing the frost line, wind stress calculations and construction details are important but this business is about design first. Good luck with the donuts.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e115/jcrumley1/Lettering.jpg

[curtiss]

Depending on size, many signs may require a structural engineer sign off before a sign permit is granted.

The cost of this is money well spent.

The leaning tower of Pisa never had a proper structural permit....

[joe]

Curtis,

Have you ever applied for a sign permit with an engineering stamp and what did it cost? Our standard cost for Engineering Sign Off's are $1200.

The sign in the photo will NEVER need a engineer bug on it, so why did you bring that up? I'm trying to raise the standards of this trade by handing out creative and accurate information that will help the regular fellow. And I only post on topics I'm familiar with.

No DONUT suggestions.

Joe Crumley
www.normansignco.com

[dana_swift]

Joe- I'm not in the sign business, but your comment on wind loading caught my eye. Where does one go to get a reference on the subject?

Are there standard equations for estimating wind forces on signs?

I'm just curious..

D

[jerry_stanek]

Depending on size, many signs may require a structural engineer sign off before a sign permit is granted.

The cost of this is money well spent.

The leaning tower of Pisa never had a proper structural permit....


Just look at how long that has stood. Yes but look at all the recognition it has. If just one sign I would make one sign and only get half as much recognition that would make me a legend.

[joe]

Jerry,

You're on the right track.

One of the major criteria for my signs is they must last for twenty years. Every once in a while I get a call for a repaint. I bring them in the shop and spend lots of time dressing them up. Once we get them back in their place, they should be good for ten years or so before a refresh.

I'm always here to give suggestions about materials and techniques that will last and look good.

Here's a referb. We took in a few months ago. When finished it looked as good as or even better than new.

I truly believe in making them last for years.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e115/jcrumley1/Dentist1-3.jpg

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e115/jcrumley1/IMG_1219-1.jpg

I must admit it wasn't easy to sand off the 23K letters but knowing we'd be going back with more eased the pain. Both signs were made from clear heart redwood and sandblasted. We can't get this wood any longer and I've give up on sandblasting. This makes them even more valuable. I believe they will last at least forty years with a repaint every ten years or so. Then the customer will have to gilder.

You are correct, a reputation can be built on long lasting sign. But it helps if they look extra good. My sales come the designs and the longevity is the support. It's not the other way around.

[Nancy]

Looks like Tyler's original question about AutoCAD and software has been answered and thread is meandering.