Nesting sign letters for a ShopBot
Many sign shops cut letters on a ShopBot. NestSigns does the nesting step: it packs the letters onto as few sheets as it can and gives you a file ready for your toolpath software.
Start free: 20 runs, no credit cardWhere NestSigns fits in a ShopBot workflow
| Step | Tool |
|---|---|
| 1. Design the letters | Illustrator, CorelDRAW or FlexiSIGN |
| 2. Nest the letters on the sheets | NestSigns: open the .ai, .cdr, PDF, DXF or SVG file, pick the sheet |
| 3. Make toolpaths | VCarve or Aspire (or the CAM you already use): import the nested DXF |
| 4. Cut | ShopBot control software |
NestSigns exports DXF R12 with true arcs on one layer, so curves stay smooth when you import them for toolpaths. It also exports PDF and AI, one file per sheet or all sheets together.
Set the spacing from your bit
Type the bit diameter you cut with, and NestSigns sets the part spacing from it. With a 1/4 in bit, for example, the spacing becomes a little over 0.25 in so the cutter never touches the next letter. After every run it measures the smallest gap that was actually left and shows it, so you can check before cutting.
Sheet sizes that match your table
ShopBot tables come in several sizes, from desktop tools to full 4 × 8 ft machines. Save the sheet sizes you really load, including leftover pieces, in the material stock list. NestSigns uses the smallest leftovers first, then full sheets, and takes used stock out when you mark the job done.
What else it does for letter jobs
- True-shape nesting by the real letter outlines: any angle, 0/180° only, or no rotation.
- Exact spacing. Type the gap or your bit diameter; every layout is checked and shows the smallest gap measured.
- Parts inside letter holes. Small pieces go inside O, A, B and D, and holes stay with their letter.
- Leftovers first. Full sheets and leftover pieces per material, smallest leftovers used first, stock updated when the job is done.
- Oversize letters left out, divided, or divided with a 1 in joining strip, pieces labeled A1, A2…
- Every part numbered on the sheets and on the original artwork in the layout summary PDF.
Questions
Does NestSigns make toolpaths for my ShopBot?
No. NestSigns does the nesting and exports the nested layout as DXF, PDF or AI. You make toolpaths in VCarve, Aspire or the CAM software you already use.
Do I need to install anything?
No. NestSigns runs in a web browser on Windows or Mac. You can also install it as a desktop app from the browser.
Is NestSigns made by ShopBot?
No. NestSigns is separate software and is not affiliated with ShopBot Tools. It works with any router that can cut from a DXF or PDF layout.
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