Medals come in a variety of materials, each with its unique characteristics to suit different preferences, purposes, and budgets. How to choose medals online is also an important topic.
Now, in this article, we will mainly focus on the advantages and disadvantages of different medals, as well as ways to preserve them. Completely master medal selection through this article? Probably okay!
Metal Awards
Advantages
Durability: Metal awards are highly durable and withstand the test of time. They resist wear and tear, making them suitable for long-term display without losing their luster.
Elegance and Prestige: Metal, especially when polished, exudes a sense of prestige and sophistication. Whether it’s gold, silver, bronze, or other alloys, metal awards often convey a high level of importance and honor.
Variety of Designs: Metal awards can be intricately designed and customized, offering a wide range of styles to suit different occasions. The versatility in design makes them suitable for everything from corporate achievements to sports trophies.
Disadvantages
Cost: Metal awards tend to be more expensive than other materials like PVC or acrylic. The cost can be prohibitive, especially for bulk orders or for those working with a limited budget.
Weight: Metal awards are generally heavier than their counterparts. While this adds to their sense of quality, it can make them less convenient to handle, transport, or display in certain settings.
Susceptibility to Tarnish: Over time, some metals can tarnish or corrode if not properly maintained. This can detract from their appearance and require regular cleaning or polishing to maintain their original look.
Storage Suggestions
To preserve metal awards, store them in a cool, dry place to prevent tarnishing or corrosion. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can cause discoloration or fading. Wrapping them in a soft cloth or keeping them in a display case can also protect them from dust and scratches.
Custom Medals
Custom Medals
Custom Medals
Custom Medals
Custom Medals
Custom Medals
Custom Medals
PVC Awards
Advantages
Affordability: PVC awards are cost-effective, making them an excellent choice for large-scale events or organizations with tight budgets. They offer a way to recognize achievements without incurring significant expenses.
Lightweight: PVC is a lightweight material, making these awards easy to transport and handle. This is especially advantageous for events where multiple awards need to be distributed or where the awards will be shipped.
Durability: Despite being lightweight, PVC is surprisingly durable and resistant to impact. It is less likely to break or shatter compared to materials like glass.
Disadvantages
Perceived Value: PVC awards may not convey the same level of prestige or importance as metal or glass awards. Their lightweight nature can sometimes make them feel less substantial or valuable.
Limited Design Options: While PVC can be molded into various shapes, it does not offer the same level of intricate design possibilities as metal or glass. This can limit the aesthetic appeal of the awards.
Susceptibility to Scratches: PVC is prone to scratching, which can diminish its appearance over time. Care must be taken to avoid contact with sharp objects or abrasive surfaces.
Storage Suggestions
Store PVC awards in a cool, dry environment to prevent warping or discoloration. To avoid scratches, keep them separated from other items, ideally in individual boxes or wrapped in soft materials. It’s also wise to avoid placing heavy objects on top of them to prevent deformation.
Acrylic Awards
Advantages
Versatility: Acrylic awards are highly versatile and can be shaped and colored in various ways. This allows for a wide range of creative designs, including clear, frosted, or colored finishes.
Durability: Unlike glass, acrylic is much more resistant to shattering or breaking. This makes it a more practical option for environments where the awards may be handled frequently or transported over long distances.
Affordability: Acrylic offers a balance between quality and cost. While not as expensive as glass or metal, it still provides a polished, professional appearance, making it a popular choice for many types of awards.
Disadvantages
Prone to Scratches: Similar to PVC, acrylic can scratch easily if not handled with care. These scratches can detract from the clarity and overall appearance of the award.
Susceptibility to UV Damage: Acrylic can become discolored or brittle when exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods. This can affect the longevity and aesthetic appeal of the award.
Perceived Value: Although acrylic can look quite similar to glass, it is often perceived as less prestigious. The difference in weight and the feel of the material can make acrylic awards seem less valuable to some recipients.
Storage Suggestions
To protect acrylic awards, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent discoloration. Wrapping them in a soft cloth or placing them in individual protective bags can help prevent scratches. Additionally, keeping them in a display case can minimize the risk of accidental damage.
Custom Medals
Custom Medals
Wooden Awards
Advantages
Natural Aesthetic: Wooden awards offer a unique, natural look that can be both rustic and elegant. The wood grain provides a warm, organic feel, making these awards stand out from more traditional materials.
Sustainability: Wood is a renewable resource, and choosing wooden awards can be an eco-friendly option, especially if the wood is sourced from sustainably managed forests.
Customization: Wood can be carved, engraved, or stained in various ways, offering a range of customization options. The versatility of wood allows for unique designs that can be tailored to the event or recipient.
Disadvantages
Susceptibility to Damage: Wood can be prone to scratches, dents, or warping if not properly cared for. Exposure to moisture or extreme temperatures can also damage the wood over time.
Perceived Value: While wooden awards can be beautiful, they may not carry the same perceived value as metal or glass awards, especially in more formal or corporate settings.
Maintenance: Wooden awards require regular maintenance, such as polishing or treating the wood to prevent drying out or cracking. This added upkeep can be a drawback for some.
Storage Suggestions
Store wooden awards in a cool, dry place to prevent warping or moisture damage. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can cause the wood to fade or dry out. Regularly polish the wood with a suitable wood conditioner to maintain its appearance and protect it from environmental factors.
Custom Medals
Conclusion
When choosing the right material for an award, it’s essential to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each option carefully. Metal awards offer durability and prestige but come with higher costs and weight. PVC awards are affordable and lightweight but may lack the perceived value and intricate design possibilities. Glass awards provide aesthetic appeal and customization options but require careful handling due to their fragility and cost. Acrylic awards strike a balance between durability and affordability but may be prone to scratches and UV damage. Finally, wooden awards offer a natural aesthetic and sustainability, though they require more maintenance and may not always be viewed as prestigious.
Proper storage of each type of award is crucial to maintaining its appearance and longevity. By understanding the unique characteristics of metal, PVC, glass, acrylic, and wooden awards, one can make an informed decision that aligns with the event’s purpose, the recipient’s expectations, and the organization’s budget.
