--- title: Northern Engraving | Design Blog for Surfaces on Aluminum | Mechanical Finishes (2) description: Mechanical Finishes | Northern Engraving Aluminum Surfaces Design Blog - covers the possibilities and inspiration for creating patterns and decoration on aluminum surfaces. (2) --- [](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/mechanical-finishes/page/2#main-nav) [![Norcorp](https://www.norcorp.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Northern-Engraving-Logo-white.png?width=530&name=Northern-Engraving-Logo-white.png "Norcorp")](https://www.norcorp.com/) - Surfaces on Aluminum Design Blog # Surfaces on Aluminum Design Blog ## [How It's Made | 2013 Aluminum Holiday Card](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/bid/168659/How-It-s-Made-2013-Aluminum-Holiday-Card) Posted by [Vicky Bowie](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/author/vicky-bowie) Each year our Design team takes a look at common decorating processes used across the globe in industries from automotive and appliance trim to motorcycle badging and cosmetic appliques. This review sparks inspiration for the annual Holiday Card as a way to showcase processes and decoration options ... [Read More](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/bid/168659/How-It-s-Made-2013-Aluminum-Holiday-Card) ## Using Pattern for Dimension in Aluminum Nameplates Posted by [Vicky Bowie](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/author/vicky-bowie) Just look at the dimension created when a technical pattern is used in the background! The border of this nameplate appears to be a higher level than the background, resulting in perceived depth without need for a custom emboss tool. [Read More](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/bid/115179/Using-Pattern-for-Dimension-in-Aluminum-Nameplates) ## Intricate Decorative Aluminum Trim Posted by [Kelly Kjos](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/author/kelly-kjos) Design intent for the decorative aluminum trim plate was to create an intricate layered look conveying precision and sports luxury. The final design utilizes an alternative approach which integrates layers of processes combined with mechanical finishes to create the in-laid metal design. The ... [Read More](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/bid/110431/Intricate-Decorative-Aluminum-Trim) ## Introducing 3 New Heavy Brushed Aluminum Patterns Posted by [Mitch Larson](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/author/mitch-larson) Brushed aluminum is a commonly requested aluminum surface. It's versatility makes it a popular choice allowing for custom color, gloss, and texture. Aside from these choices there are also different grain structures to choose from. The structure of our brushes offered range from a fine hairline to ... [Read More](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/bid/108811/Introducing-3-New-Heavy-Brushed-Aluminum-Patterns) ## Sporty Mechanical Aluminum Finishes Posted by [Mitch Larson](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/author/mitch-larson) Light-reflective engine turned surfaces play with light adding an interactive component to finishes. Glossy transparent tints of grey take the glitz factor down a notch for a refined sporty feel. [Read More](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/bid/108136/Sporty-Mechanical-Aluminum-Finishes) ## Cost Effective Updates to Aluminum Trim Posted by [Kelly Kjos](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/author/kelly-kjos) Creating Four Distinct Looks Using Common Tools The Dodge Charger takes full advantage of the versatility of aluminum by updating the metal finish to create four distinct looks for unique interiors. Both the instrument panel and shifter bezel take advantage of the naturally reflective surface of ... [Read More](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/bid/105089/Cost-Effective-Updates-to-Aluminum-Trim) ## Spin, Turn and Stripe on Aluminum Posted by [Lynn Holzworth](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/author/lynn-holzworth) Not to be confused with a cool new dance move, these first "steps" or mechanical finish options in building your decorative finish on aluminum are a few of my favorite. [Read More](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/bid/69174/Spin-Turn-and-Stripe-on-Aluminum) ## 3D Aluminum Finishes Posted by [Mitch Larson](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/author/mitch-larson) Using Halftones with Mechanical Finishes to Create Visual Depth In this series of finishes, black halftones are layered over varying sizes of engine stripe. A deep blue tint is added for color then finished off with a high gloss topcoat. [Read More](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/bid/57301/3D-Aluminum-Finishes) ## Crisp Linear Brush Finish for Aluminum Trim Posted by [Deidre Kruser](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/author/deidre-kruser) Combine linear sharpness with precisely brushed aluminum and a touch of texture. The result is a modern mechanical finish with juxtaposed bright and brushed details. Layers of brushed pinstripes and linear texture add depth and movement to the real metal surface. [Read More](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/bid/51945/Crisp-Linear-Brush-Finish-for-Aluminum-Trim) [← Previous](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/mechanical-finishes/page/1) [All posts](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/all) [Next →](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/mechanical-finishes/page/3) ### Subscribe to Design Blog - [Topics](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/mechanical-finishes/page/2#mia-topics) - [Popular](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/mechanical-finishes/page/2#mia-popular) - [2021 (1)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/2021) - [3D (5)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/3d) - [Aluminum (88)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/aluminum) - [Aluminum In-mold (3)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/aluminum-in-mold) - [Aluminum Trim (87)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/aluminum-trim) - [Anodize (2)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/anodize) - [Appliance (5)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/appliance) - [Architectural (9)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/architectural) - [Art Deco (4)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/art-deco) - [Automotive (15)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/automotive) - [Black Finish (2)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/black-finish) - [Boats (1)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/boats) - [Brushed Aluminum (25)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/brushed-aluminum) - [Carbon Fiber (11)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/carbon-fiber) - [Ceiling Tile (3)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/ceiling-tile) - [Classic (2)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/classic) - [Coating (1)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/coating) - [Coined (3)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/coined) - [Color Development (2)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/color-development) - [Color Trend (2)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/color-trend) - [Copper Finish (2)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/copper-finish) - [Cosmetics (2)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/cosmetics) - [Custom Patterns (49)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/custom-patterns) - [Customization (7)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/customization) - [Customized Patterns on Aluminum (2)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/customized-patterns-on-aluminum) - [Decorated Metal Cards (1)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/decorated-metal-cards) - [Diamond Cut (2)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/diamond-cut) - [ebook (8)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/ebook) - [Faux Finishes (20)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/faux-finishes) - [Favorite Finish (19)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/favorite-finish) - [Fine Art (5)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/fine-art) - [geometric (1)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/geometric) - [Geometric Finish (8)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/geometric-finish) - [Gloss (3)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/gloss) - [Gold Finish (2)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/gold-finish) - [gray (4)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/gray) - [Holiday Card (3)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/holiday-card) - [IDSA (3)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/idsa) - [Inlay (4)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/inlay) - [Large Format (3)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/large-format) - [linear (2)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/linear) - [Linear Finish (6)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/linear-finish) - [Lithography (2)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/lithography) - [Match Box Cover (4)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/match-box-cover) - [Materials and Processes (29)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/materials-and-processes) - [Mechanical Finishes (37)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/mechanical-finishes) - [Metallic (2)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/metallic) - [Micro Finish (4)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/micro-finish) - [Modern (2)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/modern) - [Mood Board (30)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/mood-board) - [Nameplate (3)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/nameplate) - [NeoCon (1)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/neocon) - [Organic Finish (2)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/organic-finish) - [Organic Finishes (13)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/organic-finishes) - [Patina Finish (12)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/patina-finish) - [Pattern on Pattern (1)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/pattern-on-pattern) - [Powerful (2)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/powerful) - [Process Color (6)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/process-color) - [Promotional Products (13)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/promotional-products) - [Recycled Aluminum (3)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/recycled-aluminum) - [Resources (12)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/resources) - [Selective Patterns (9)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/selective-patterns) - [Silver Finish (7)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/silver-finish) - [Simplicity (2)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/simplicity) - [Stainless Steel (3)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/stainless-steel) - [Surface Collection (32)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/surface-collection) - [Surfaces (87)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/surfaces) - [Technical (11)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/technical) - [Texture (15)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/texture) - [Top 10 (9)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/top-10) - [Top 3 (1)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/top-3) - [Watermark (2)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/watermark) - [White Finish (3)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/white-finish) - [Woodgrain (7)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/woodgrain) - [Worn (3)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/worn) - [Woven Finish (6)](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/woven-finish) [see all](https://www.norcorp.com/design-aluminum-surfaces-blog/topic/mechanical-finishes/page/2#) ### Resources ### Design ### About © 2026 NBHX TRIM GROUP - Northern Engraving | 803 South Black River St. | Sparta, WI 54656-0377 | Phone +1 608 269 6911