Using photos for project front panel labels/artwork

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around methods for creating professional-looking labels and artwork for DIY project front panels. Participants explore various printing techniques, materials, and durability options, focusing on practical applications rather than theoretical approaches.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Experimental/applied

Main Points Raised

  • One participant describes a method of creating artwork in LibreOffice Draw and printing it at a local photo lab, seeking recommendations for increasing durability and reducing glare.
  • Another suggests reverse printing on clear plastic for added durability.
  • Some participants recommend consulting a sign shop for printing on sign vinyl, noting its durability and resistance to fading.
  • There are mentions of using heat transfer printing and metal photos for a professional finish, though concerns about cost for one-off projects are raised.
  • One participant discusses the possibility of using thick cardstock or aluminum with inkjet printers, suggesting a clear coat for protection.
  • Another proposes using clear contact paper for durability and ease of replacement, while also considering sandwiching the photo in thin acrylic.
  • Concerns are expressed about the limitations of consumer-grade printers for large black areas, and the need for high-quality prints is emphasized.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a variety of methods and materials for achieving durable and professional-looking labels, but there is no consensus on a single best approach. Multiple competing views remain regarding the most effective techniques and materials.

Contextual Notes

Participants note limitations related to the cost of professional printing services, the quality of consumer printers, and the need for precise cutting of holes for components. There are also unresolved questions about the effectiveness of different protective coatings and materials.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for DIY enthusiasts, hobbyists in electronics, and individuals looking to create custom labels or artwork for projects involving front panels.

  • #31
So this following approach isn't what I'm looking for right now, but maybe in the future if I'm already ordering a PC Board, so I thought I'd post it for others to see. Basically, when this guy orders a PCB for his project, he specifies black solder mask and maps out a section of the PCB as the front panel. He has it drilled & routed to his specs, and the legend (white silk screened, durable paint) is the labeling/graphics for the panel. Clever!

It's really pretty neat, and there are some pretty cheap small run PCB houses out there. This is still a little pricey for the near 8 x 10 size I would need, but if I also needed a PCB, it's very low added cost. And if I needed quantities in the dozens, it might pencil out as well (drilling being done for you, and PCB is strong enough w/o any backing panel needed).



I think this is the place he used:

https://jlcpcb.com/
 

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