Nameplate Blog

The aluminum overlays shown here illustrate the mileage you can get out of your tooling investment through the use of an interchangeable emboss. They pair a unique emboss with an update to the printed finish to create distinctly different parts to be used on various models. The options are endless and cost-effective.

Embossing raises sections of a design creating a focal point on a nameplate, badge or logo. On the first example shown here, a skull is embossed in bright aluminum against a textured black background. Embossing is used on the second badge to create symmetry and dimension while drawing the eye from the top to the bottom of the design. A brushed finish differentiates the background of the logo from the vertical embossed bright aluminum lines. The third nameplate layers the movement of an embossed engine turn finish with the fine detail of a printed carbon fiber finish. This combination adds considerable movement.

Investing in a versatile tool and process creates several design opportunities to ensure the best look for your nameplate.

Request a Nameplate Materials and Processes Guide to begin exploring the options available to you in creating your product branding.

Our guest post this week comes from Vicky Bowie, Sales Development Representative. Trends in customer requests and designs led her to share some options that may be of interest when creating your nameplate or label.

In recent conversations with customers, I have noticed a trend in requests for two-tone silver or gold nameplates. This decorative technique is suitable for various nameplates and logos, and on differing substrates, including aluminum and plastic. Here are just a few examples of nameplates with a two-tone finish.

Chrome Polyester

Chrome polyester labels are available in custom shapes and sizes and in an unlimited range of color choices. A silver metallic is used to complement the embossed silver name on this logo. The nameplate is applied to various types of Maxon furniture, on which the nameplate needs to conform to the shape of the item. This label illustrates the versatility of chrome polyester, also referred to as Mylar® film, to be used in a wide variety of applications.

Metallic

Metallic colors are naturally low gloss and complement a nameplate when contrasted with bright aluminum. They have metal flakes which give a distinct look to the finish. The size of the flake can be varied to create metallic effects ranging from very fine to coarse. In addition, the rich finish increases the perceived value of the product identification.

Bright Aluminum

A bright aluminum is used on this nameplate to create a chrome-like backdrop for the metallic logo. The polished aluminum background contrasts with the printed white metallic process creating an etched look.

Mechanical Finish

Mechanical finishes create natural highlights and movement on aluminum. On the nameplate above, a spun background is accompanied by a bright logo on the bottom and a metallic logo on the top. Both illustrate popular options in creating a tone-on-tone look on brushed surfaces.

Emboss

A nameplate featured on a fragrance needs to be a symbol of luxury and relevance to its brand. This nameplate has a gold overall tint which creates a luxurious look, while the embossed graphics highlight the brand by creating a three-dimensional image.

Etch

Deep etched graphics on a low gloss brushed aluminum surface build tactile and visual interest. Etching is a chemical process used to cut into the metal surface creating a desired graphic design. This process can be utilized on flat nameplates, similar to the example above, to establish dimension.

The nameplates featured here illustrate some of the options available to you in creating a two-tone look on metal and plastic substrates.  What other ideas do you have for creating the look you need for your product identification? 

Request a Nameplate Materials and Processes Guide to begin exploring the options available in materials and processes to create your product branding.

Collector's Edition CD Case Packaging

This example of packaging is featured on a 5 CD Box Set and an accompanying guitar carrying case which houses the CD set (not pictured). The logo is printed on a bright aluminum substrate, with a matte black finish surrounding the logo. In addition, the logo is embossed to enhance the bright aluminum and offer a recognizable contrast from the black finish. Many fans will appreciate the longevity and durability the aluminum gives to the nameplate used for packaging.

Request a Nameplate Materials and Processes Guide to begin exploring the options available to you in creating your product branding.

Evaluating Color for Better Product Identification

The environment a color is viewed under has a profound impact on your color perception. Two primary factors in the perception of color are the type of light source in the viewing area and strongly colored nearby walls or objects. Perception of color also varies in individuals with a color vision deficiency or color blindness. This decreased ability to perceive differences between various colors is diagnosed with color vision tests. In addition, there are steps to help minimize problems in viewing and communicating about color.

View Color Samples in a Light Booth

A color booth offers controlled light sources and a color-neutral environment for the comparison of newly developed color samples against the target color chip. It facilitates consistency of evaluation, improves communication, and minimizes product rejections. Three primary light sources are used in the development of color for product identification. Where the product will be used determines which light source is appropriate.

View Color Samples Using Environmental Light

Color and light are inseparable. However, not everyone has a light booth. An alternative option is to use environmental lighting taking into consideration the appropriate light source. For example, color samples viewed under daylight in a light booth are also effectively reviewed outside. Overall, the key point is awareness of your environment and its potential impact on your perception of color.

Consider Viewing Angle

The angle color samples are viewed at also impacts your perception of the colors. This is most evident in transparent tints of color and metallics. Two samples which match when viewed from one angle may fail to match when viewed from a different angle. Consideration of where the color will be used helps to guide decisions in determining the proper viewing angle. Is the end application horizontal? Vertical?

For more information on our color processes, please click on the image below to request a copy of our eBook: Guide to Color.

The options for packaging a product are endless; however adding an aluminum insert to this CD set gives the opportunity for the product to stand out among all others. Not only is the decoration attractive, but it boasts durability and uniqueness. Through the four-color process the desired design is achieved.

Process color uses four colors: cyan, magenta, yellow and black to create multiple colors. Some typical uses for the four color process include: multi-color graphics, faux finishes, illustrations, and photos. Process color provides a variety of possibilities for building your design and brand image.

Other examples of process color:

Four Options in Four Color Process Nameplates
10 Examples of Multi-Color Logos
Aluminum Lid for CD Package
Aluminum Inserts
Miles Davis CD Spine

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.