Following on from yesterdays post about branding on custom merchandise with your logo I'll run through other popular branding methods which we use on our merchandise to be branded with your logo to the best visual effect. It is none other than laser engraving and we'll talk about it more in this post.

 

  1. Laser engraving creates lasting impressions.
  2. Laser engraving is versatile and precise.
  3. Consider cost and limitations before choosing.

Branding Method 101: Laser Engraving

What is Laser Engraving?

Laser engraving is a method of branding which is quite common on metal surfaces. It involves a concentrated beam of extreme light (or laser) which is extremely hot. This hot beam literally etches off the surface of a piece of metal to create branding. This hot beam is controlled via a computer software which in turn controls the beam to create your logo! Some common examples of laser engraving may be the back of your watch! The back of an Ipod as well as various electrical devices.

This branding method may only be used on metal surfaces such as stainless steal, aluminium and other metal based surfaces. It generally cant be used on plastic surfaces as the effect of a hot laser beam on plastics tend to be unpredictable. Items such as these can be branded using laser engraving:

The visual result on laser engraving is literally an etch of your image or logo. Colour is not possible however what you do miss out on you get back in terms of a higher perception of quality. Better still your logo cannot be rubbed off over time unlike conventional pad printing listed in my previous post.

Branding Method 101: Laser Engraving

So what are the future developments for this branding technique? Laser Engraving for branding has been around for a while now. It used to be done by hand by now advances in technology means that computer software can be used to digitise your logo and create precision based engraving. In the past few years though we have begun offering a limited range of promotional items where we are able to not just laser engrave your logo but actually create a "blackened," effect. The technique is the same however the result is that an entire branding surfaces is literally burnt into a deeper black colour. This creates a vivid striking finish and is visually quite stunning. This blackened laser engraving effect so far is only avaialable to a limited amount of promotional products. However over time we hope to provide this option to all our metal based products!

Laser Engraving Pros

Laser engraving is a popular branding method for a reason. Here are a few benefits of using this method for branding your promotional products:

  • Durability: Laser engraving is a highly durable method of branding. Unlike pad printing or other methods, the logo or image cannot be rubbed off over time.
  • High Perceived Value: Laser engraving creates a high-end look and feel for your promotional products, which can increase the perceived value of your brand.
  • Precision: Laser engraving is a precise method of branding that allows for intricate designs and details to be etched into the metal surface.
  • Versatility: Laser engraving can be used on a variety of metal surfaces, including stainless steel, aluminum, and other metal-based surfaces.
  • Brand Recognition: Laser engraving creates a lasting impression on your customers and clients, which can lead to increased brand recognition and loyalty.


Laser Engraving Limitations

While laser engraving is a popular branding method, there are some limitations to consider. Here are a few limitations of using this method for branding your promotional products:

  • Material Restrictions: Laser engraving can only be used on metal surfaces. It cannot be used on plastic surfaces as the effect of a hot laser beam on plastics tends to be unpredictable.
  • Colour Limitations: Laser engraving only creates an etched image or logo in a single color. If you need your logo to be in color, you will need to consider other branding methods.
  • Size Limitations: Laser engraving is best suited for small to medium-sized logos or images. If you need a larger logo or image, you may need to consider other branding methods.
  • Cost: Laser engraving can be more expensive than other branding methods, especially for small orders.
  • Limited Effects: While blackened laser engraving is a new development in this branding method, it is only available on a limited amount of promotional products.


Final Thoughts

Laser engraving is a highly durable, precise, and versatile method of branding your promotional products. However, it is not without its limitations, including material restrictions, color limitations, size limitations, cost, and limited effects. By understanding the benefits and limitations of laser engraving, you can make an informed decision about whether this branding method is right for your promotional products.