AQ Dictionary
The language of brand and space: an evolving A–Z reference explaining industry terminology.
- Acrylic
- A rigid plastic sheet, available clear, coloured or opal, used for lettering, light boxes and reception signs.
- Aluminium composite
- Two thin aluminium skins bonded to a plastic core, giving a light, flat sign panel.
- Bleed
- Extra artwork beyond the cut line, so no white edge shows after trimming.
- Channel letter
- A hollow illuminated letter with a back, sides and usually a translucent face.
- CNC routing
- Computer-guided cutting of sheet materials to an exact shape.
- Dibond
- A well-known brand name for aluminium composite panel, often used as a general term.
- Environmental branding
- Graphics and design that carry a brand through a physical space.
- Fascia
- The board above a shopfront or shell scheme stand that carries the name.
- Glass manifestation
- Markings on glass that make it visible for safety, often designed to carry a brand.
- Halo lighting
- Light shining backwards from a solid letter onto the wall, creating a soft glow around its outline.
- Modular stand
- An exhibition stand built from a reusable system with changeable graphics.
- Pan channel
- A letter built like a shallow tray. The term is used differently across the trade, so check a sample or drawing.
- Pylon sign
- A tall, freestanding sign, often used at shopping centres to list tenants.
- Return
- The side of a fabricated letter that gives it depth.
- SEG
- Silicone edge graphic: printed fabric with a silicone strip that pushes into a slim frame for a tight finish.
- Shell scheme
- A basic exhibition stand supplied by the organiser, usually with walls, a fascia, flooring and basic power.
- Space only
- Bare exhibition floor space on which the exhibitor builds their own stand.
- Stand-off
- A fitting that holds a panel or letter away from a wall for a floating look.
- UV printing
- Printing with ink cured by ultraviolet light, often directly onto rigid boards.
- Vector artwork
- Artwork built from mathematical paths, which can be scaled to any size without losing quality.
- Vinyl wrap
- Printed adhesive film applied over a vehicle or surface.
- Wayfinding
- Signs and cues that help people find their way through a space.