--- title: Northern Engraving | Blog for Aluminum Nameplates and Plastic Labels | Brushed Aluminum description: Brushed Aluminum | Covers aluminum and plastic nameplate and label design, processes and best practices. --- [](https://www.norcorp.com/nameplate-blog/topic/brushed-aluminum#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/) - Nameplate Blog # Nameplate Blog ## [Brushed Aluminum Trim Dresses Up Lock Box](https://www.norcorp.com/nameplate-blog/brushed-aluminum-trim-dresses-up-lock-box) Posted by [Vicky Bowie](https://www.norcorp.com/nameplate-blog/author/vicky-bowie) Brushed aluminum is one of the more popular finishes used in the background of nameplates and decorative trim. Many times the brushed metal surface is used as an accent area for the product or to enhance the product design with an authentic material. [Read More](https://www.norcorp.com/nameplate-blog/brushed-aluminum-trim-dresses-up-lock-box) ## Using Halftones for Visual Dimension on Aluminum Nameplates Posted by [Vicky Bowie](https://www.norcorp.com/nameplate-blog/author/vicky-bowie) Typically dimension in metal nameplates is called out with embossed graphics or logos. This type of enhancement requires additional tooling operations which then impacts the cost of the part. This post takes a look at how some brands have steered clear of the added expense and instead made the most ... [Read More](https://www.norcorp.com/nameplate-blog/using-halftones-for-visual-dimension-on-aluminum-nameplates) ## 5 Reasons Brushed Aluminum is Used for Nameplates and Trim Posted by [Vicky Bowie](https://www.norcorp.com/nameplate-blog/author/vicky-bowie) One of the most common background decoration for nameplates, badges and trim is a brushed aluminum finish. Why? Here are five reasons to use brushed aluminum in your next design. [Read More](https://www.norcorp.com/nameplate-blog/5-reasons-brushed-aluminum-is-used-for-nameplates-and-trim) ## Looking For an Authentic Metal Surface for Your Nameplate? Posted by [Vicky Bowie](https://www.norcorp.com/nameplate-blog/author/vicky-bowie) Brushed Metal Nameplates Add Percieved Value to your Product A brushed metal surface is popular because it is an authentic metal surface. It is a mechanical process which abrades the surface of the metal. Brushed aluminum is a common background for nameplates and brand identification. [Read More](https://www.norcorp.com/nameplate-blog/bid/68561/looking-for-an-authentic-metal-surface-for-your-nameplate) ## Using Pattern for Dimension in Aluminum Nameplates Posted by [Vicky Bowie](https://www.norcorp.com/nameplate-blog/author/vicky-bowie) Many times we are asked for options in creating dimension at a minimum cost for nameplates and labels. Just look at the dimension created when a technical pattern is used in the background of this aluminum nameplate! The brushed border appears to be a higher level than the background, resulting in ... [Read More](https://www.norcorp.com/nameplate-blog/using-pattern-for-dimension-in-aluminum-nameplates) ## Grab Attention with 3-D Embossed Aluminum Badges Posted by [Vicky Bowie](https://www.norcorp.com/nameplate-blog/author/vicky-bowie) 3-D Embossed Aluminum Stands Out Embossed aluminum is a common feature to consider when looking to showcase a brand logo or graphic on a badge. A common question is how to take that to the next level to grab attention and stand out from competition? Aluminum offers versatility in decoration and ... [Read More](https://www.norcorp.com/nameplate-blog/grab-attention-with-3-d-embossed-aluminum-badges) ## 10 Simply Elegant Automotive Gear Knobs Posted by [Vicky Bowie](https://www.norcorp.com/nameplate-blog/author/vicky-bowie) Premium Aluminum Trim = Simple Elegance A gear knob is one piece of trim which is touched every time a vehicle is put in motion. It makes sense that the expectation is for the gear knob to match the look and feel of the vehicle that it is directing. Brushed aluminum is a common foundation to build ... [Read More](https://www.norcorp.com/nameplate-blog/bid/208057/10-simply-elegant-automotive-gear-knobs-slideshare) ## Brushed Aluminum Creates Beveled Looks on Aluminum Posted by [Vicky Bowie](https://www.norcorp.com/nameplate-blog/author/vicky-bowie) Brushed Aluminum = Simulated Beveled Emboss It never ceases to amaze me how many options there are to decorated aluminum surfaces to end up with highly decorative pieces of eye-candy. A flat piece of metal that starts out quite plain and gray becomes transformed into a bright focus piece with ... [Read More](https://www.norcorp.com/nameplate-blog/brushed-aluminum-creates-beveled-looks-on-aluminum) ## Nameplate Archive | Inlaid Cloissone for Appliance Trim Posted by [Vicky Bowie](https://www.norcorp.com/nameplate-blog/author/vicky-bowie) Working at a company who has been around over 100 years makes for interesting product launches, design facelifts and updates to company logos. Spending some time in our sample area is a treat and a walk down memory lane. This week I came across this aluminum appliance trim from back in day and it ... 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