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The Nameplate FAQ page covers common questions in the following areas.
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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?
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Woodgrain finishes on aluminum have come a long way since their start in the mid 1900's. The patterns and colorations had a dull, almost faded look due to a lack of technology and color development at the time. Woodgrain patterns were especially popular in vehicles during this time and were featured in almost every vehicle dash panel, speedometer or clock-face. Starting in the 1950's the woodgrain began appearing on the exterior of the vehicle, which soon became known as the Woodie.
Variations in woodgrains are based on characteristics of grain, texture and color. The most recent developments in woodgrain printing on aluminum offer the depth and movement seen in real wood. This is possible through the layering of mechanical finishes to create movement. Faux woodgraining is cost-effective and an environmentally sustainable alternative to using native and exotic hardwoods.
There are several options when utilizing aluminum as a substrate for a woodgrain effect. Custom woodgrain finishes can be matched based on real wood structures and surfaces such as ash, pine, or eucalyptus. Once a structure or grain is chosen, the overall color of a woodgrain can be adjusted to meet your final design intent. The pattern can be printed selectively and complemented with a bright accent bead or brushed aluminum. Doming can add further dimension and interest as well.
Does your next nameplate or trim project require incorporating a faux finish like woodgrain? Now you know this doesn't have to limit your options.
Aluminum Woodgrain TrimCadillac Escalade Interior TrimCrysler Pacifica Interior TrimTaking a Cue from Cue Sticks
With the year over, I thought it would be interesting to see which articles were of most interest to you in 2012. It's a fascinating exercise to see what resonated most with you as we look back on the year through our blog.
1. Victory Motorcycle BadgeMore than just another piece of chrome.Read More
2. Introducing 3-D Nameplate Stock DiesNorthern Engraving now offers 3-D stock dies to support your needs for cost-effective product identification with minimized lead time.Read More
3. Bright Chrome Applique for Fragrance PackagingThe use of innovative materials such as aluminum is one way for brands to differentiate from competitors.Read More
Request a Nameplate Materials and Processes Guide to begin exploring the options available to you in creating product branding that differentiates your product. Custom color matches, texture and assembly are only some of the options in creating your nameplate.
Incorporating gold-on-gold coloration in your nameplate or badge design creates a rich look through a simple change in color. Light or dark gold can be paired with changes in gloss level or texture to create visual interest. All of the nameplates featured above are printed on aluminum. They illustrate the chameleon-like versatility of aluminum to take on the look of other metals. The gold coloration is custom matched in a transparent tint or metallic color, depending on the design, and creates a very unique look.
By using a tone-on-tone look the Taylor nameplates above highlight the variations of metallic gold finishes paired with gold tints. Just a slight alteration in process creates a different look across the nameplates. These combinations can be used overall or as an accent on your nameplate or badge.
Request a Nameplate Materials and Processes Guide to begin exploring the options available to you in creating your product branding.
Combining metallic colors with authentic metal finishes, like bright or brushed aluminum, creates an increased perceived value. The ability to differentiate a nameplate design can also be achieved through the use of metallics. This cost-effective option depicts an etched appearance on aluminum, and accordingly changes the tone and color of your design. Metallic effects range from fine metallic to coarse metallic and can be added to a variety of colors and can be paired with a variety of finishes. The most common references to metallic colors include gold, silver and bronze. In addition, metallics can be applied to the graphics or background of your nameplate or badge, or it can be integrated into the entire composition.
The Amana nameplates shown above are unique due to the combination of various metallic colors. These nameplates also incorporate bright and brushed aluminum accents paired with the desired metallic finish. You will also notice lines across the background, which help to separate the change in metallic finish color. These nameplates emphasize the fact that metallic effects create richness, and added interest, signifying a custom product.
Samples of nameplates are a great way to explore and better understand the options available to you in designing a nameplate. Request a Nameplate Materials and Processes Guide with numerous samples to assist you in the process.
Are you looking for a more efficient method to apply your brand onto your products? Why not consider our “Blank on Tape” option for packaging your nameplate.
“Blank on Tape” refers to the process in which a nameplate is applied onto a roll of adhesive.
There are several benefits to choosing this process over traditional packaging methods. The most important benefit is the ease of assembly for high volume programs.
1) The “Blank on Tape” process provides flat appliqués consistently oriented on a roll of tape, which decreases the chances of any mis-assembly of your brand onto your finished product.
2) Since the appliqué is cut with the tool and simultaneously transferred onto the tape, the part releases easily, speeding up the assembly process.
3) This process can be easily designed for automation during assembly of your product.
“Blank on Tape” offers a clean and contained pack method. Specific industries that most commonly use this process include cosmetics and electronics. Whether your nameplate is aluminum, plastic, or norlens it can be a great candidate for “Blank on Tape”.
Samples of nameplates are a great way to explore and better understand the options available to you in designing a nameplate. Northern engraving offers a Nameplate Materials and Processes Guide with numerous samples on metal and plastic substrates to assist you in the process.
Technical finishes add a layer of dimension to nameplates, badges and labels. They can be created by combining several processes, including selective brushing, engine turning or printing. The resulting texture adds richness and a tactile quality to a printed surface. When varying or contrasting colors are utilized within a technical finish, a greater sense of depth and dimension is created, as shown on the above nameplates.
Mixing metal finishes gives your nameplate a unique look. Copper, gold and silver are some of the most popular, and can be combined in a variety of ways. Adding a one side bright aluminum substrate under the metal finishes adds to the luster and enhances the color. This series illustrates options in combining natural metal colors.
This article is the first in a series of articles illustrating options in integrating finishes into your nameplate design. All can be customized to meet your product branding needs.
A variety of processes are available to create tone-on tone silver nameplates. The result is a premium look that coordinates with many products. This series combines aluminum in high or low gloss with metallic inks, brushing and spinning. The logo is embossed to further differentiate it from the background finish. Which one catches your attention? Can you think of other nameplates that rely on a tone-on-tone finish to stand out?
This article focuses on combining specialized printing with a common tool to create unique looks across your brand. Callaway used this approach to differentiate their clubs designed for men and women. Each version is distinctly colored to appeal to the individual end user.
The men’s nameplate includes navy blue and black inks highlighted and separated by bright aluminum trim. The large X in the center is mechanically spun to create a circular pattern on the aluminum. While somewhat simple colors are utilized together, a custom look is created and the brand is very evident on the badge.
The nameplate created for the women’s clubs includes a mother of pearl coloration, which is created using our four color process. To accent this pearl look, a gold tint has been added to the exposed aluminum on the X and the trim. The same navy blue ink color used on the men’s version is also used here to contrast the pearl and gold and allow both accents to stand out.
No matter which version you purchase, a unique look and recognizable brand is sure to get noticed while on the course.
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