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Substrate Saturdays with Steve is our weekly series exploring the materials we work with at Thysse—breaking down what they are, how they function, and why they matter.
This week, we’re exploring wood—a natural, durable, and highly customizable substrate that brings a premium, organic look to signage, displays, and architectural branding elements. Whether you need flat-panel printing, dimensional cut letters, or custom wood signage, Thysse has the technology and expertise to bring your vision to life.
Wood is an eye-catching alternative to synthetic materials, offering warmth, texture, and durability that stands out in both indoor and outdoor applications.
High-End Look & Natural Appeal
The organic grain of wood adds a unique aesthetic that differentiates it from synthetic materials.
Durability & Longevity
Plywood and MDF are structurally stable, making them ideal for long-term interior use and select exterior applications
Versatile Fabrication
Can be printed, routed, CNC-cut, engraved, or stained for completely custom designs.
Eco-Friendly Option
Wood is a renewable, biodegradable substrate, making it a more sustainable choice than plastics.
At Thysse, we primarily work with plywood and MDF (medium-density fiberboard) due to their flat, printable surfaces and structural integrity. These materials allow for high-resolution printing and precise CNC routing. However, our Facility Branding and Wide Format teams do work with natural wood products and bamboo for some clients.
Plywood is a versatile, layered wood substrate with a veneer-coated surface that prints beautifully and holds up well over time.
Best For:
Large outdoor site signs commonly seen in construction zones, real estate developments, and corporate expansions.
Architectural branding that adds a warm, natural touch to lobby signage, wall displays, and wayfinding elements.
Dimensional lettering and logos that can be CNC-cut into letters or intricate shapes for a refined, high-end look.
Example: The large plywood signs outside a bank’s construction site announcing “Future Home of XYZ” are most likely printed on durable, weather-resistant plywood panels.
MDF is a high-density engineered wood with a smooth, consistent printing surface, making it ideal for interior signage and branding. Unlike plywood, MDF is made from fine wood particles, giving it a more uniform appearance but making it more porous and prone to moisture absorption. While sealants can improve durability, MDF is best suited for indoor applications.
Best For:
Brand assets that add dimension and sophistication to signage for hotels, restaurants, and corporate spaces.
Point-of-purchase displays that need extra strength and durability, such as freestanding displays.
Dimensional graphics & engraving—MDF holds sharp detail when cut or engraved, making it a top choice for custom-cut branding elements.
Example: A trendy coffee shop using MDF lettering for a textured, dimensional menu board or a boutique retailer incorporating wood-printed signage into their store design.
For brands looking for a one-of-a-kind aesthetic, we also print on reclaimed wood panels and log cross sections.
Best For:
Rustic and vintage branding, perfect for breweries, outdoor brands, or businesses emphasizing sustainability.
Custom interior decor such as wall art, conference room branding, or unique lobby installations.
Dimensional accents that work well when paired with metal or acrylic elements for a mixed-material design.
At Thysse, we print, route, and cut wood substrates using advanced wide-format printing and precision CNC routing technology.
Our Capabilities Include:
Full-Color Direct Printing
High-resolution UV printing on wood panels for vibrant, long-lasting color.
CNC Cutting and Routing
Custom-cut or engraved letters, logos, and designs for dimensional signage.
Engraving & Etching
Adds texture and depth to branding elements.
Choosing the right wood substrate can elevate your brand’s signage and displays. Whether you need dimensional logos, custom engravings, or large-format prints, our team is here to help. Let’s create something incredible—contact us today!
