Engraving options explained

Laser engraving

A laser etches your wording directly into the surface of the award, or onto a plate that is then attached. It is the most common method for trophies, medals, plaques and awards, and the majority of our awards are laser engraved.

• On glass and crystal, laser engraving appears white and bright.
• On acrylic, engraving comes out very clear and crisp, so names and logos really pop.
• On plates, there are many coloured plates with contrasting engraved text.

Laser etching on cylindrical items

We can also laser etch round and cylindrical items, including glass and stainless steel tankards, glasses, vases and carafes, and ceramic coffee mugs, travel mugs, water bottles and stainless steel flasks. These are popular for gifts, weddings, birthdays and staff thank yous.

Computerised diamond drag engraving

Diamond drag engraving uses a computer controlled diamond point to cut the lettering into a surface. It keeps the lettering consistent on awards such as perpetual trophies, year after year, which is why many clubs choose it for plates that are added over many seasons.

Colour printing with UV

On certain corporate awards, we can use full colour UV printing on glass, acrylic and clothing. Special inks are laid down directly onto the surface and cured by UV light for a bright, textured and durable finish. It is a great way to show a full colour logo exactly as it appears in your branding.

Which should I choose?

• Standard trophies, medals and plaques: laser engraving.
• Perpetual trophy plates added every year: computerised diamond drag engraving.
• Glass, crystal and acrylic awards: laser engraving, or UV colour printing for a full colour logo.
• Gifts and drinkware: laser etching on glass, tankards, mugs and bottles.

Getting the best result

Send us a clear, high resolution logo, with vector files preferred. Keep wording short and check spelling, and tell us the award you are considering. We will recommend the method and layout that suits it. See our services page for more.