Have a question about a nameplate or badge?
The Nameplate FAQ page covers common questions in the following areas.
Current Articles | RSS Feed
Sometimes the packaging or housing surface for the end product is not friendly for a dimensional look. Your design calls for graphics which are set down into the label or appliqué. How can this be achieved without causing attachment concerns? Coined graphics on aluminum provide an elegant option.
Coining aluminum is part of the tooling process which involves a custom stamping tool made to match graphic elements of the design. The coined tool causes a slight depression into the surface of the decorated aluminum, without major disruption to the backside (shown in the image to the right with the "HILFIGER" graphic). This allows for a smooth surface and maximum contact area for adhesive bonding to the mating surface. The coined area can be registered to colored graphics for further detail and distinction. This refinement is developed and perfected during the tool build so that when it is time to put decorated stock through the tool, quality parts are produced. Without colored graphics, a subtle two-tone image results within the coined area. Either option enhances the brand with elegance and a precise look.
The images above show examples using coined graphics from the cosmetic and packaging industries. This type of tooling can be used in any market when subtle dimension for graphics is needed.
• Precise registration of graphics is achieved with standard tolerances ± .010”.• Contrasting or complementary colors for detail and brand recognition are retained within the coined areas.• Coordinates well with other tooling operations including emboss and form.• Seamless attachment and bond to mating surface with heat activated or pressure sensitive adhesive.
Now that you are aware of the option to add dimension through coined graphics, is there opportunity to use this for your next design?
0 Comments Click here to read/write comments
TransAm GTA Emblem
One of the classic designs, the TransAm nameplate, features a coined texture on the firebird contrasted by the black background. The metallic gold tones really allow this design to catch the eye. This is a perfect example of a timeless, recognizable emblem.
Request a Nameplate Materials and Processes Guide to begin exploring the options available to you in creating your product branding.
Custom matching a patina finish for CD packaging in the Mile Davis metal spine series meant working closely with the packaging designer to exactly duplicate the worn and imperfect surface on the trumpet used by Miles Davis.
Once the trumpet arrived in our studio, our designers worked with litho press operators creating the patina look on metal. Steel was used on the original version of the metal spine to add weight to the final package. A later version matched the patina surface on aluminum. The graphics for both versions were coined into the metal for an authentic stamped metal effect.
Additional metal spines in the series were created using the same tooling. An anodized blue metal look was achieved by coating a transparent tint of color on brushed steel. A low gloss topcoat protects the surface and adds to the anodized effect. The graphics feature a tone on tone effect created by litho printing a slightly darker blue tint and coining. A third metal spine was manufactured using brass. Simulated brass could be achieved on aluminum. However, this would leave a visible silver edge on the spine on the completed CD packaging. The final flashy brass cd spine is akin to a shiny trumpet with detailed graphics coined into the surface of the metal.
Metal labels, plaques or spines are used effectively in packaging to draw attention to the product. They can be used to create a looks that are flashy, elegant or handcrafted.
How would you push the boundaries of metal substrates incorporating them into your package design?
All Posts