MintForged
Make a Memorial Plaque From a Photo
Turn a portrait, emblem, or symbol into a raised plaque, set its size in millimeters, and download an STL for 3D printing or a height map for CNC and engraving.
What this workflow supports
- Rectangle, round, or outline-shaped plaques
- Size, thickness, and relief depth set in millimeters
- An optional second design on the back
- STL for printing and casting, height map PNG for CNC and engraving
Choose the artwork
Portraits, crests, religious symbols, unit emblems, and simple line art all work. Strong contrast and a clean background give the most legible relief.
- Use the sharpest copy of the photo you have
- Emblems and logos work well as high-contrast PNGs
- Small text fades at shallow depth, so keep lettering large
- Add names and dates on the back side or engrave them afterwards
How plaques get made
The STL can go straight to a resin or FDM printer, or serve as a master for a silicone mould and casting. The height map suits CNC routers and laser engravers.
- Print in resin for fine detail, then paint or metal-coat
- Use the print as a master for casting in resin, plaster, or cold-cast metal
- Send the height map to a CNC shop for wood or stone
- Confirm final dimensions with your printer or shop before production
Frequently asked questions
Can I turn a photo of a person into a plaque?
Yes. Upload the photo, choose a rectangle or round plaque, and check the raised portrait in 3D before you download. Clear, evenly lit portraits give the best faces.
What file do I give a CNC or engraving shop?
Most CNC shops accept the STL. Some laser and depth-carving tools prefer the grayscale height map PNG, which MintForged also exports from the same project.
How much does a plaque file cost?
Designing and previewing is free. The first export is free with a confirmed account, and further exports are $4.99 per project.