Laser Cut Customizable "Be Right Back" Shop Door Sign
The Creator Spark Challenge
Instruction
Information
This layered sign provides four different spaces for a message telling your customers that you're temporarily unavailable. The center section rotates, allow you to choose the message displayed. The back includes an "Open" message so you can easily flip the sign upon return.
This sign is meant to be customized. Only default XCS fonts were used.
Decorative elements sourced from https://publicdomainvectors.org.
Instruction
Step1: Download and cut the project
Download the template, customize the messages as desired, and cut. There are several pieces: A front piece with the cutout window, the middle message wheel, and a back piece.
Important: Do not dispose of the disc that is cut out from the middle of the message wheel! This piece is glued in and holds the entire sign together. If your laser's kerf is very narrow, you may want to adjust the size of this disc to allow for easier rotation.
Also, it's very important to use very flat stock. If your material has even a slight warp, it will make rotating the message wheel much more difficult.
Step2: Align the message wheel
Place the front piece (with the cutout window) face down, then place the message wheel face down on top. This wheel should fit perfectly centered on the sign, so make sure the edges of the teeth match the edge of the sign at the top and bottom.
Step3: Glue in the center disc
Using wood glue or super glue, place a liberal amount in the center of the disc, but not too much, you do not want any squeeze out. Carefully place the disc with the glue side down in the center cutout of the message wheel. The last picture demonstrates the alignment of the disc with the sign. Allow this to dry.
Pro tip: Rubbing some candle or beeswax along the edges of the center disc provides some lubrication and helps the message wheel turn easier.
Step4: Glue on the back
Using wood or super glue, place the same amount you just used on the center disc, then line up the back piece and place on top. Again, be careful not to use too much glue, or the squeeze out will glue the message wheel in place.
This design comes with two versions of the back piece: One that's the same size as the front, and one that's just a little shorter in the middle area so that the teeth are exposed to make rotation a bit easier.
Step5: Tie on a hanger and take a break
Jute cord was used in this image, but any yarn, string, wire, chain, etc., can be used. Now hang up your sign and take a break!
