--- title: Northern Engraving | Trim Blog description: Interest in authentic materials has led to increased use of aluminum trim as an accent in premium vehicles, power sports, appliances and electronics. This blog discusses options of using aluminum for decorative trim. --- [](https://www.norcorp.com/trim-blog/page/1#main-nav) # Trim Blog ## [Happy Holidays 2017 from Northern Engraving](https://www.norcorp.com/trim-blog/happy-holidays-2017-from-northern-engraving) Posted by [Vicky Bowie](https://www.norcorp.com/trim-blog/author/vicky-bowie) May Joy, Peace, Hope and Happiness be yours this Holiday Season and in the New Year! from your friends at Northern Engraving [Read More](https://www.norcorp.com/trim-blog/happy-holidays-2017-from-northern-engraving) ## Large Scale Graphic Image on Brushed Aluminum Trim Posted by [Vicky Bowie](https://www.norcorp.com/trim-blog/author/vicky-bowie) When designing your decorative trim there is good sense in keeping things consistent and subtle. For instance a bright and glittering finish could become a safety hazard if used across the dash panel of a vehicle. Does subtle need to mean boring or average? Absolutely not! [Read More](https://www.norcorp.com/trim-blog/large-scale-graphic-image-on-brushed-aluminum-trim) ## Brushed Aluminum Trim Dresses Up Lock Box Posted by [Vicky Bowie](https://www.norcorp.com/trim-blog/author/vicky-bowie) Brushed aluminum is one of the more popular finishes used in the background of 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/trim-blog/brushed-aluminum-trim-dresses-up-lock-box) ## Custom Pattern Development for Aluminum Boat Trim Posted by [Vicky Bowie](https://www.norcorp.com/trim-blog/author/vicky-bowie) Celebrating a milestone anniversary is a great opportunity for a company to highlight their brand and draw attention to their product. One way to do this is with a commemorative logo. [Read More](https://www.norcorp.com/trim-blog/custom-pattern-development-for-aluminum-boat-trim) ## Impressive Embossed Aluminum Exterior Badge Posted by [Vicky Bowie](https://www.norcorp.com/trim-blog/author/vicky-bowie) Power sports equipment, all terrain or utility terrain vehicles and motorcycles need to be able to stand up to exposure to the elements and rough environments. This does not mean that the branding and exterior trim for these should be left to simple and flimsy materials. [Read More](https://www.norcorp.com/trim-blog/impressive-embossed-aluminum-exterior-badge) ## This is More than Stamping and Decorating Processes for Aluminum Trim Posted by [Vicky Bowie](https://www.norcorp.com/trim-blog/author/vicky-bowie) Working with designers and engineers for automotive interior trim presents projects which can push the boundaries for tooling and decoration on aluminum. In depth discussions with engineers to make sure dimensions are in line with forming tolerances take place. Similar conversations with styling ... [Read More](https://www.norcorp.com/trim-blog/this-is-more-than-stamping-and-decorating-processes-for-aluminum-trim) ## Customization with Gradient Pattern Structures for Aluminum Trim Posted by [Vicky Bowie](https://www.norcorp.com/trim-blog/author/vicky-bowie) Taking cue from design elements seen in automotive shows the past year, I found it interesting how decoration for interior and exterior trim can be enhanced by changing the scale and structure of pattern elements with geometric shapes. This is a perfect way to customize surface decoration for ... [Read More](https://www.norcorp.com/trim-blog/customization-with-gradient-pattern-structures-for-aluminum-trim) ## Layers of Finishes for Decorated Aluminum Posted by [Vicky Bowie](https://www.norcorp.com/trim-blog/author/vicky-bowie) One of the interesting elements of working with aluminum as a substrate for decorative surfaces is the inherent reflective nature of the metal. This can be overlooked or covered up by the final decoration. Instead of hiding the metal, take a look at how this finish has embraced it and ultimately ... [Read More](https://www.norcorp.com/trim-blog/layers-of-finishes-for-decorated-aluminum) ## Carbon Fiber Look on Aluminum Trim Posted by [Vicky Bowie](https://www.norcorp.com/trim-blog/author/vicky-bowie) The variety of weave patterns available in carbon fiber have inspired many designers to explore this look on aluminum. For some this means using the carbon fiber as a starting point and interpreting the surface on aluminum. For others it is matching the original material as close a possible. [Read More](https://www.norcorp.com/trim-blog/carbon-fiber-look-on-aluminum-trim) ## Engine Turned Aluminum Trim Posted by [Vicky Bowie](https://www.norcorp.com/trim-blog/author/vicky-bowie) Engine turning is a mechanical finish in which very precise spins are applied in overlapping rows on aluminum. The finish was popular on vintage race cars and airplanes. Engine turned dash panels were fashionable in the 1920's and 1930's. It continues to be a popular choice to bring a sporty feel ... [Read More](https://www.norcorp.com/trim-blog/engine-turned-aluminum-trim) [All posts](https://www.norcorp.com/trim-blog/all) [Next →](https://www.norcorp.com/trim-blog/page/2) ### Subscribe to Trim Blog - [Topics](https://www.norcorp.com/trim-blog/page/1#mia-topics) - [Popular](https://www.norcorp.com/trim-blog/page/1#mia-popular) - [Aluminum Badges (2)](https://www.norcorp.com/trim-blog/topic/aluminum-badges) - [Aluminum Trim (4)](https://www.norcorp.com/trim-blog/topic/aluminum-trim) - [Anodized Aluminum (1)](https://www.norcorp.com/trim-blog/topic/anodized-aluminum) - [Brushed Aluminum (3)](https://www.norcorp.com/trim-blog/topic/brushed-aluminum) - [Custom Patterns (2)](https://www.norcorp.com/trim-blog/topic/custom-patterns) - [Customized Patterns on Aluminum (2)](https://www.norcorp.com/trim-blog/topic/customized-patterns-on-aluminum) - [Distressed Aluminum (1)](https://www.norcorp.com/trim-blog/topic/distressed-aluminum) - [engine turned aluminum (1)](https://www.norcorp.com/trim-blog/topic/engine-turned-aluminum) - [Exterior Trim (1)](https://www.norcorp.com/trim-blog/topic/exterior-trim) - [Geometric Finish (1)](https://www.norcorp.com/trim-blog/topic/geometric-finish) - [Gradient Finishes (1)](https://www.norcorp.com/trim-blog/topic/gradient-finishes) - [Mechanical Finishes (3)](https://www.norcorp.com/trim-blog/topic/mechanical-finishes) - [Nameplate Tools (1)](https://www.norcorp.com/trim-blog/topic/nameplate-tools) - [Pattern on Pattern (1)](https://www.norcorp.com/trim-blog/topic/pattern-on-pattern) - [Promotional Products (1)](https://www.norcorp.com/trim-blog/topic/promotional-products) ### Resources ### Design ### About © 2026 NBHX TRIM GROUP - Northern Engraving | 803 South Black River St. | Sparta, WI 54656-0377 | Phone +1 608 269 6911