Industry 4.0 fundamentally transforms traditional manufacturing by ushering in a new era of data- and knowledge-driven digital production systems. This paper introduces Manufacturing Blueprints, a proven knowledge-based framework that bridges the gap between physical and digital manufacturing. At its core, Manufacturing Blueprints comprises an innovative manufacturing knowledge model and a robust programming environment that enables the representation, storage, retrieval, cross-correlation, and processing of critical digital manufacturing knowledge. This includes product design, production processes, service quality, operational parameters, timing, and control mechanisms. As a comprehensive digital twin solution, Manufacturing Blueprints addresses the entire lifecycle of intelligent products, encompassing product development, production optimization, and performance management. By fully digitizing physical assets and processes, the framework seamlessly integrates factory sites, plants, and self-regulating machines, enabling customized output and dynamic resource allocation. This approach not only aligns with the vision of Industry 4.0 but also facilitates a seamless transition between the physical and digital realms of product design and production. Manufacturing Blueprints represents a transformative step toward realizing the full potential of smart, interconnected, and adaptive manufacturing ecosystems.