Trophies and awards are coveted by people across the planet, and they are often used as symbols. Whether you won a company competition or ranked in a sporting event, a trophy may memorialize it. Here are the most common materials used to design trophies and a little bit about them.
Wood
A wooden trophy may be designed using multiple wood types, but they usually stick to one per item. Typically, you will find bamboo trophies, thanks to the wood’s versatility. Since designers can manufacture wood with different finishes, their appearance is famous. However, many design specialists prefer oak and hickory because of their eco-friendly nature.
Often, wood-based awards are made larger than what would be normal using other options. Furthermore, wood’s durable nature ensures these items outlast most choices. In addition to its longevity, it has been used since time immemorial, so it is excellent for history fans.
Metal
Metallic trophies can be created using numerous materials, from chrome to steel. Nevertheless, custom trophies that are made using metal are usually more expensive. Since metals are pricey to extract, making trophies with them can be costlier. On the other hand, most metals are long-lasting, shiny, and heavy.
As a result, anyone can tell the trophy is high-quality, as it feels weighty when held. Even though they may be a tad more expensive, many sports fans prefer metal-based medals. Particularly, the shine of a metal enamors many, making them irresistible choices. Chrome has caught the eye of many award makers, owing to its unique shimmer.
Glass
Frequently, trophy makers choose glass as the base material for a particular design. Therefore, glass trophies are commonly found, so they are pretty widespread. Generally, large glass sheets serve as the starting block, and someone cuts them. Once they have cut them into smaller blocks, designers utilize them to make the final product.
Moreover, the cutters can slice glass into variable thicknesses, enabling more choices. Most spectators say glass designs look elegant, sophisticated, and modern. Besides, glass is less
costly than many material options, reducing overall costs. Depending on the desired product, you may save quite a bit by opting for glass. Glass’s characteristics vary depending on additives. Most often, aluminosilicate is selected, and it usually performs well. Nonetheless, other choices may be preferable, considering the situation and circumstances.
Acrylic
Acrylics are supremely cost-effective, limiting the total investment for the buyer. Consequently, acrylic is among the most common choice for trophy design. From its cost-effectiveness to its durability, and acrylic is a superior option. In many cases, it stacks up well against pricier selections, making it a no-brainer.
An award made from acrylic will require less maintenance, and it will not cost as much to create. It weighs less than a similar glass object, and you would spend less on it upfront. Considering these characteristics, it should be unsurprising that it has found many adopters. Additionally, machinists can manufacture items using acrylic with intricate design features.
Thus, they are chosen for complex designs, so the final product still looks phenomenal. Additionally, acrylic-made items are usually shatterproof, so you can drop them. Even after they smash into the ground, the object will remain intact. So, your awards will outlast many items, prolonging their shelflife.
Crystal
Crystal’s appearance shares many similarities with glass, but it is different. On a molecular level, a crystal has lead in its structure, affecting its composition.
As a consequence, it is not as hard as aluminosilicate glasses, commonly found in trophies. Thus, numerous possibilities are available when using crystal, especially compared to glass. Since it is softer, machines can mold it into complicated shapes and designs. If you want a three-dimensional object, a crystal would be the apparent winner.
Besides, it reflects light well, and it can detract it into varying colors. If the craftsman makes something with crystal, the final result can be astounding. Trophies incorporating crystal have become sought-after because of these traits. When creating custom awards, trophy makers can carve sophisticated designs with crystals.
The Various Material Options for Award Design
Designing awards can be fulfilling, but most award winners are concerned with results. Since winning one takes a lot of effort, that makes sense, but you should look at the material too. Otherwise, the final item may not be as outstanding as hoped, but there are plenty of great choices still.
