Custom Grapic Arts: The Materials

Every project that enters our studio is distinctive. No one material is the best solution for the unique application. Our knowledge and experience enables us to provide the best solution for each project.  Some of the more commonly used materials include the following.

Dupont Corian
DuPont’s solid surface substrate is normally associated with countertops. We have found that many of the same attributes that make Corian such a success in commercial and residential kitchens and baths also applies to graphics. It is extremely durable, for areas that are unsupervised, receive high tactile occurrences or need constant cleaning this is the substrate of choice. From a design standpoint, Corian offers a plethora of color choices and available in a granite, stone, marble and other natural finishes. Because it is an acrylic slab stock it machines beautifully on our CNC router and laser equipment. This enables us to create stunning graphics and text that appear to be carved in stone. Interpretive Graphics, office lobby identification, custom conference and table tops, landscape and park markings, dedication and memorial plaques as well as way finding systems are perfect uses for this material. It accepts paints, gold leaf and metal letters to compliment the Corian for a truly memorable graphic.

Timeless Timber
Whether you are a designer, interpretive graphic professional or wood enthusiast, there is no mistaking the look and quality of virgin old-growth lumber. TIMELESS TIMBER harvests this highly prized lumber without eroding the environment because their source isn't a forest. Instead they plumb the chilly depths of America's lakes and rivers searching for these treasures. In fact, TIMELESS TIMBER has been certified by SCS for our use of 100% recovered lumber.

Beech is the most suitable for carving. The timber is very pale cream to pinkish-brown. It is typically straight grained with broad rays, and has a fine, even texture. When quarter sawn the wood displays a beautiful ray fleck figure.  Other species such as birch, flame birch, hard maple, western larch as well as red and white oak are also available.  Please consult with a Whispering Pines Studio artist to select the appropriate wood for you project.

If you would like to incorporate the history and rare beauty of Timeless Timber in your next project this is a distinctive difference. Looking for a unique and beautiful gift hand-crafted using this wood? Visit our Art for Sale section. All Timeless Timber products are shipped with a certificate of authenticity.

LuminOre
LuminOre is a newly patented metalizing process that seamlessly applies composite metal to almost any surface. Available in seven metals: Metal-X(aluminum), brass, bronze, copper, iron, nickle and stainless steel; LuminOre gives our signs the appearance of being a solid cast metal object without the weight.

The process allows a thin layer of metal to be applied over almost any substrate, in virtually any configuration. Once cured, the finish has all the characteristics of a cast metal piece, including texture and luster. Utilizing our ArtCAM 3-D modeling software we have the unique ability to offer specialized metal finishes or create oversized “plaques” and art pieces at a fraction of the weight of cast products and at a significant cost savings.

High Density Urethane
This man made substrate been used as a wood substitute in the housing industry for over 30 years and virtually all exterior millwork on new buildings is created out of HDU. Its uniform consistency allows it to sculpt wonderfully; routers like a dream and are a perfect prototyping substrate.  Available in 18, 22 and 30 lbs. densities.

This material is also an excellent choice for large three dimensional projects where weight and continuity of carving is concerned and accepts the LuminOre process of aged metal easily.