Nameplate Blog

Using Micro Textures on Aluminum Nameplates

Designers often turn to textures and patterns to add detail and interest to product identification. Our pattern library is a rich resource in the exploration of finishes available to you in your product branding.  It offers a diverse range of patterns on aluminium which can be integrated into nameplates.  Simple micro textures are the most popular category of finishes.  We've gathered several here for your inspiration.  

All patterns can be customized in color and scale to meet your product branding needs.  Request a Nameplate Materials and Processes Guide to begin exploring the options available to you.  Custom color matches, texture and assembly are only some of the options in creating your unique design. 

Integrating Patterns in Nameplates

Pattern or texture added to nameplates creates detail and interest.  Our library of aluminum finishes features thousands of patterns to be integrated into nameplates.  Finishes can be customized in color, scale or process to meet the design intent of the product identification.  It is interesting to note that even with the myriad of finish choices available there are a few patterns which stand out as favorites.  One in particular has been used on multiple automotive trim and nameplate applications.  The finish is featured here in nameplates, labels and badges.

The pattern takes on a unique character in each of the applications due to the processes and color used in addition to the graphic elements which compliment the finish.  The overall look of the pattern can be shifted slightly by adjusting the gloss level of the printed texture.  A subtle pattern is created when a high gloss texture is printed on a low gloss background.  Adding color to the texture creates a pattern with higher contrast.  Using brushed or bright aluminum for the background surface of the pattern allows the metal character to shine through.  Opaque background colors contrast nicely with bright graphics and borders.

Embossed graphics combine with the geometric texture to create an attractive brand image for the products.  Nameplates featuring patterns can be combined with the full range of decorative process options including: diamond cutting, brushing and spinning.

What is it about this finish that has caught the attention of so many?  How would you incorporate it into a nameplate or badge?

Patterns in Nameplates, Labels and Badges 

Patterns add detail and depth to metal nameplates.  Technical and precise finishes create a feeling of detailed precision and engineering in product identification.  Marble, mother of pearl, carbon fiber and tortoise shell are a few of the faux finishes which combine with graphics to create a refined and premium look for your brand.  Custom finishes or patterns from a library of thousands of aluminum finishes are integrated into nameplates using one of four primary process options for creating patterns on aluminum.

1. Four Color Process: reproduce virtually any surface on metal
2. Mechanical Finishes: add movement and flip to the nameplate
3. Printed Texture: offered in various colors and gloss levels
4. Tooled Texture: creates a crisp visual and tactile pattern

Four Color Process

Process color uses four colors to print a wide spectrum of colors.  Images which can be photographed, such as marble, granite and mother of pearl, are good candidates for four color process on aluminum.

Mechnical Finishes

Selective brushing is used to create precise technical finishes or organic structures.  A combination of bright aluminum and brushing catches the light creating interactive surfaces which can be layered with transparent color.

Printed Texture

Screen printed texture is available in high or low gloss for a subtle background surface.  A colored texture creates a more dramatic contrast in a pattern.  Pinstripes and grids are popular patterns in product identification as well as subtle grains. 

Tooled Texture

Embossing and coining are used when the design calls for a surface with added relief or a very crisp detail.  Color can be applied selectively to the metal and aligned with the embossing to add to the visual depth.

Putting it all Together

The metal processes featured here can be used independently or combined into unique surfaces for product identification.  Selective brushing layered with color and texture come together to create aluminum finishes with depth and texture.

Doming

The finishes can be further enhance with doming or norlens as shown in this tortoise shell insert for a cosmetic compact and the carbon fiber nameplate.  The dome is applied over transparent tints of color and acts as a lens magnifying the reflective quality of the aluminum.

How would you integrate pattern into a nameplate?