How to Make Name Plate Cards with Adobe Illustrator

Looking for a creative way to personalize events or gifts? Making name plate cards is a fun and rewarding project—and it’s easier than you might think! Follow these simple steps to design and cut beautiful name plates using Adobe Illustrator.

1. Pick a Name or Word

Start by choosing the name or word you'd like to feature on your name plate card. Whether it’s a person’s name, an inspiring word, or a festive greeting, the choice is yours!

2. Pick a Font

Once you’ve selected your word, choose a font that fits the style you want. Adjust the font size as needed. If possible, use a script or cursive font where the letters are already connected; this will make the process much simpler and give your design a cohesive look.

3. Create Outlines

In Adobe Illustrator, go to Type > Create Outlines to convert your text into editable shapes. After creating outlines, you might notice some overlapping pieces. To clean these up:

• Open the Pathfinder panel.

• Use the Unite tool to merge everything into one seamless shape.
  This step will eliminate extra lines, leaving you with a clean, perfect cut-ready design.

4. Thicken the Font (Optional)

If you’d like your letters to be a bit bolder, you can thicken the font by offsetting the path:

• In the Pathfinder panel, choose Offset Path.

• For example, you might offset the path by .03 inches (but you can adjust this based on preference).

• Use Unite again in Pathfinder to merge the offset path with the original, or delete the thinner, inner version if needed.

5. Handling Dots on “i” or “j”

If your word contains an “i” or “j” with a dot, ungroup the word so you can work with the dot separately. You have a few options:

• Delete the dot altogether.

• Offset just the dot’s path if you want it thicker.

• Move the dot off-center and connect it to the main letter shape, then use Unite to join them.

6. Connecting Disconnected Letters

If your font doesn’t naturally connect the letters, don’t worry! You can:

• Draw a small rectangle to bridge the gaps.

• Manually adjust and hook letters together.

• Use Pathfinder > Unite to merge them into one continuous shape.

7. Preview the Cut

Before cutting, switch the font’s Fill to Stroke. This lets you see exactly how your design will cut on your machine.

8. Cut Out Your Design

Once everything looks right, send your file to your cutting machine and bring your beautiful name plate card to life!

💡 Pro Tip: Watch our tutorial video to see these steps in action! https://youtu.be/rbHRWJp66y8?si=BlyWy7ONBljBnalb