Identity Solutions

process
Multi-level emboss with dual mechanical finishes

application
Taylor-Made Golf Iron

challenge
• Single trim piece with illusion of multiple parts
• Multiple surface treatments with critical registration and detail

solution
Multi-level embossing combines with mechanical finishes to provide movement and depth while giving the appearance of separate parts. The nameplate requires critical registration between processes resulting in tactile surfaces with precise graphics and border treatments.

process
Aluminum over-mold

application
Callaway Golf Club

challenge
• Go beyond previous brand decoration

solution
The popular trend of mixing materials provided the inspiration for our engineers to use plastic as a decorative element for an aluminum nameplate.  The aluminum in-mold process was used to create the dimensional X graphic.  The background aluminum features a spin or radial brush which adds movement.  A precision finish was created through screen printing a detailed texture on black.  The combination of metal, fine detail and plastic comes together in a nameplate with increased perceived value.  The nameplate helps to create  market differentiation for the customer's product and take a premium brand to the next level.

process
Aluminum and plastic medallions

application
Ping Golf Club

challenge
• Coordinate brand across aluminum and polycarbonate
• Chrome effect on plastic
• Multiple shaped parts with emboss for program

solution
Our designers worked with Ping exploring decorative options for the aluminum medallion.  Engine turn, a circular brush, was chosen for the eye-catching effect.  The success of the program was dependent on Northern Engraving's Tool Engineers working closely with Program Management to facilitate a timely launch.  Color matching was coordinated internally across both substrates.  In addition, an ink suitable for in-mold was used to achieve the chrome effect on plastic.  

See for yourself the engine turn detail on aluminum and the chrome effect on the formed plastic nameplate by requesting samples.

process
Process color on aluminum

application
Callaway Golf Club

challenge
Provide a jewel look on the nameplate

solution
Callaway reviewed the patterns in the Northern Engraving library of aluminum finishes.  A mother of pearl finish was chosen as a starting point.  However, Callaway wanted to create further depth in the mother of pearl effect on aluminum.  The nameplate needed to have the visual depth of an actual mother of pearl finish.  The final medallion uses a layering of processes to achieve the movement and shift of color common in mother of pearl.  The layout and color combinations for the medallion were explored in concept drawings and prototypes on aluminum.  This step allowed Callaway designers to evaluate and fine tune the many possibilities available, actually laying the samples into their golf club.