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The Nameplate FAQ page covers common questions in the following areas.
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Translation of opaque color into a transparent tint of color is an effective option for taking advantage of the reflectivity of the metal substrate. Many target color chips are supplied as PMS colors chips, printed on a white substrate which impacts the overall color. The interpretation and translation of these colors is a subjective process with limitations and considerations.
A wide variety of PMS colors can be successfully translated into transparent tints of color. Many are a rather straight forward process as illustrated in the blue color chip shown here.
Translating a pastel PMS color into a transparent tint is a more subjective process since pale pastel colors rely on white for their muted effect. White is inherently opaque. Adding white to an ink formulation limits the transparency of the color. The challenge is to balance the transparency of the color with the muted pastel effect.
Translation of a saturated PMS color into a transparent tint is a slightly subjective process. Transparent tints of color are formulated by adding clear to colors. Adding clear to a saturated color begins to dilute the pigment in the ink. The relative darkness of the base substrate also impacts the overall appearance of the color.
A guideline to keep in mind when specifying transparent tints of color is that the darker a color is, the less transparent it is. A dark tint requires more pigment and limits the transparency of the color.
Download your free copy of "Color Specifying for Product Identification" for additional information on color development for nameplates and labels.
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Over the weekend, I was at the local Shopping Mall and decided to stroll into the PacSun store. I located this bottle of perfume that PacSun recently introduced. Northern Engraving manufactured the nameplate on the bottle.
The aluminum nameplate with raised ink, creates an embossed look. I love the silver nameplate on the clear glass bottle. PacSun's audience is young and on trend. Their focus is to stay true to their roots - which was a little surf shop in Newport Beach in 1980 - and offer what's next now.
Check out more cosmetic product packaging examples that Northern Engraving has been part of. From nameplates to compact inserts, our designers can help you create a unique and custom innovative piece for your next cosmetic project.
Consideration of the gloss level of a color is an important aspect of specifying color that is often overlooked. Colors can look dramatically different when the gloss level is changed. Therefore understanding the requirement up front helps to facilitate colors that successfully support your product identification. Two options are available for the specification of gloss level: a description and a target master.
Using a description to specify gloss typically involves designating high, medium, or low gloss. More specific gloss levels are defined as a percentage of gloss, e.g. 30% or 60%. Visually, you can distinguish between various gloss levels. However, accuracy and consistency are assured by reading gloss levels on a 60 degree gloss meter.
A target color chip with the desired gloss level also clearly communicates your intention. The PMS system includes coated and uncoated colors which assist in specifying gloss along with color.
Color chips illustrate the use of high and low gloss options in protective topcoats.
A protective topcoat is applied to most product identification. In addition to protecting the printing, the topcoat determines the overall gloss of the part. Standard or custom gloss levels are available to meet your specific needs.
Application of a selective gloss is an attractive option for increasing contrast and adding visual interest when designing product identification. A simple, yet effective, option is using a low gloss background color contrasted with high gloss bright metal graphics. Selective gloss levels are also highly effective in creating subtle patterns. Pinstripes, grids or dot patterns printed in contrasting gloss on a color add detail and visual dimension.
Color specifying begins with the definition of a master or target color. There are several options for communicating the information across suppliers. The most common method used is the use of a mass-produced, categorized color system such as the Pantone Matching System, or PMS Book. A second method is the use of an existing color sample on basically any substrate. The least used option is a verbal or written description, since it is the most subjective.
1. Substrates - The base substrate a color is printed on affects the character of ink and thus the ink formulation may need to be adjusted.
2. Graphic or Background - Understanding how a color will be used is critical in determining which process will be utilized in printing the color (lithography, screening, or coating).
3. Gloss - Gloss is specified in a scale ranging from no gloss (0°) to a mirror-like reflection (100°).
4. Opaques, Transparent Tints and Metallics - Special effect colors on aluminum create visual interest and add diversity to color schemes.
5. End Use Specifications - Examples of end use considerations include interior or exterior applications, chemical resistance, abrasion resistance, and UV requirements.
This is just a piece of the information that we have available on the topic of color in our newest eBook - Guide to Color Specifying for Product Identification. Download it by clicking here and learn more about color today!
Yes, we do love minimal and clean nameplate designs, but we also love color. Colorful nameplates catch our attention with transparent tints of color, metallics and opaque colors used in backgrounds, on graphics, on text and in texture. Sometimes color completely transforms the look of a nameplate. So in this article we are showcasing 40 examples of colorful product branding to inspire you. Enjoy!
From custom woodgrain finishes to complex aluminum trim pieces with critical registration, Northern Engraving has long been a global leader in pushing the boundaries in automotive nameplates and decorative trim. Layering of processes brings unique depth and dimension. Embossing and forming capabilities allow you to go beyond a nameplate. Create a trim piece integrated into your product design. As far as you are able to dream, we give life to that dream.
Check out our nameplate and trim galleries to see all the possibilities.
The automotive industry demands appealing, lightweight and durable vehicle graphics. Aluminum nameplates are an attractive option meeting the demands of interior and exterior automotive applications. A wide range of options in decorating and forming aluminum allow you to design eye-catching emblems for your brand image. Protective coating on the nameplate provides a barrier of protection from the environment.
Typical applications for aluminum emblems and badges in an automobile include:
•Steering Wheel Badges •Engine Cover Nameplates •VIN Plates •Wheel Inserts •Sill Plates
Request a Nameplate Materials and Processes Guide to begin exploring the options available to you in creating your product branding.
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