PlaqueMaker Blog

The original photo is roughly 14″ x 9.5″ at 300 dpi, straight from the camera and unaltered. There is some light/dark contrast and no one extreme area. The line art example on black granite has a lot of visible fur texture. Line art is used on photos less than 4 inches. The halftone example on black granite looks more like a photo than the line art, with more contrast and feature definition. Halftone filters can only be used on photos at least 4 inches.

Feng Shui is an ancient Chinese practice of creating harmonious surroundings that enhance the balance of yin and yang. Used primarily in architectural and interior design, the principles of Feng Shui determine the placement of furniture and accessories, a room, an entire building –even a grave to maximize the flow of energy (qi) and that of the person or people who occupy the place, in an effort to bring good fortune.

“National Garden Month is an opportunity to learn more about USDA’s People’s Garden Initiative begun in 2009,” U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said recently. “Today, 2,116 People’s Gardens thrive on public and private lands across the United States and its territories and in 12 foreign countries. These People’s Gardens serve as models for uniting individuals, groups and neighborhoods in a common effort to benefit communities, promote food security, utilize sustainable practices, help mitigate pollinator habitat loss, and address environmental issues.”

QR codes are those square pixelated boxes seen on products, advertising and other places that are only readable by digital scanners. Often referred to as two-dimensional barcodes, QR codes are originally designed by Denso Wave, a Toyota subsidiary, as a tracking mechanism that can hold about 100 times more information than a barcode. The “QR” stands for Quick Response and since the 1990’s, they are one of the most efficient ways to track parts through the manufacturing process.

Fundraising with engraved bricks is a very popular way to raise funds for your cause because you’ll be so proud of the result that you can’t wait to show it off to your supporters.

Whether you own a small business or a run a large franchise, you can create custom signs for both indoor and outdoor use at PlaqueMaker, to match any budget. Personalize them with your company logo, artwork, special message and more. On some sign styles, we can also print your text and artwork in vivid, full color that’s UV-resistant. Choose from a variety of materials and sizes:

Every time you visit PlaqueMaker.com, you’re treated to a short list of featured items right on the home page. These eight selections are some of PlaqueMaker’s most popular and requested, so we make it super easy for you to find them.

Our custom engraved granite awards are a PlaqueMaker original! They will look fantastic at your next event, whether it’s a corporate gala, a loved one’s birthday, a living tribute for a family pet or simply for a promotion.

Whether it’s for the happy couple, the bridal party or the wedding guests, custom gifts make unique and cherished favors and keepsakes.

Choose from full-color printed plaques or a variety of laser-engraved plaque styles. We also have Easy Design styles that are just as personal, yet fast and easy to order.

Gifts can be personalized with names, monograms, dates, quotes, scripture and dedications, as well as a photo or art such as wedding clip art.

Crystal picture frame plaques are very popular – a gold or silver plastic frame holds a photo, or choose to the image engraved directly on the glass. Includes a black metal base for freestanding display.

Customizable Wedding Guest Book Signs are a perfect gift for the bride and the groom, groomsmen, bridesmaids, parents, relatives and friends. Display sign during the wedding and have each guest sign it for a truly unique decoration that will memorialize everyone who came to celebrate love.

They can be used in landscape or portrait orientation and fit document sizes of 3.5-inch by 5-inch, 5-inch by 7-inch, 6-inch by 8-inch, 8-inch by 10-inch, 8.5-inch by 11-inch or 11-inch by 14-inch. Purchasing certificate presentation kits, frames and folders in bulk is also an excellent way to save time and more importantly—money.

What’s the number one interior design trick of all time? The reflective aspect of light. Light makes a room feel larger and more comfortable, not to mention, brighter.

Corporations are no longer installing rows upon rows of bland, isolated cubicles. With the traditional nine-to-five work schedule morphing into flexible hours and telecommuting, the traditional office setting is changing. The trend is to create an open, freeform space where employees work wherever they want. Comfy sofas, chairs and large tables give them ample room to work or hold a meeting, creating a new conference room or personal work space trend.

Consult an interior designer and they will tell you that the use of wood and natural light in your home has a beneficial effect on stress reduction, psychological health and well-being. Recent studies show home furnishings and décor made from natural wood, as opposed to more industrial or synthetic materials like steel, concrete or plastics, increases positive emotions. Participants commonly describe wood in rooms to be “warm,” “comfortable,” “relaxing,” “natural” and “inviting,” and appear to have a strong belief that the use of wood can help to create healthful environments.

Trying to enjoy your favorite pastime in a dusty old garage doesn’t cut it anymore with today’s homeowner. It may be why a growing number are re-imagining their garages into custom retreats. What was once unfinished space set aside for cars, lawn mowers and abandoned gym equipment is totally getting a makeover.

While many of PlaqueMaker’s products include freestanding display mechanisms built right into their design, others offer display options and upgrades just as good-looking.

If that plain wall in your living room is stifling your inner décor diva, it’s time to turn that wall -or stairway or room divider- into your own personal canvas. Whether you are going for an eclectic shabby chic look or a uniform modern motif, displaying a collage of your favorite framed artwork is an excellent solution for filling large spaces. The trick is to get creative about the frames and the things they hold.

Paperweights – yes, paperweights – help some of the world’s most successful people stay organized and efficient. They’re also a stylish way to adorn a tabletop, combining beauty with productivity.

As our world becomes increasingly tech-fueled, many people are finding refuge at home in an environment filled with natural and organic materials. There’s something refreshing about stepping inside your front door and leaving the modern world behind for the soothing textures of the earth.