The complexity of the process for making badges varies significantly depending on the type, material, design requirements and application scenarios. From simple and quick basic processes to delicate and time-consuming high-end custom processes, each has its own characteristics and applicable scope.
Printed badges and epoxy resin badges are simple processes that are easy to operate and suitable for quick production. Printed badges are directly printed on metal, plastic or acrylic substrates through techniques such as UV printing and screen printing. They can richly present colors, restore gradients and details. The production cycle only takes 3 to 7 days. However, their surface wear resistance is not good and they are prone to wear and color fading after long-term use. They are often used in temporary scenarios such as exhibition name tags and event commemorative MEDALS. Epoxy resin badges are made by covering the surface of printed or metal base patterns with transparent epoxy resin. After curing, a waterproof, wear-resistant, smooth and lustrous protective layer is formed. They are cost-effective and suitable for making school and club badges, employee name tags, etc.
Medium-level lacquered badges and soft enamel badges require the use of basic molds or equipment, and the process is relatively complex. They can meet the requirements of conventional scenarios with certain texture demands. The lacquered badges are first formed by stamping metal and electroplating it, then filled with lacquered pigments and baked at high temperature to cure. The finished products have rich colors, are wear-resistant and corrosion-resistant, and have smooth edges. However, due to the need for grooves between colors, a gradient effect cannot be achieved. The production cycle is about 7 to 12 days. They are often used for enterprise logo badges, team honor badges, etc. Soft enamel badges are filled with enamel glaze, without baking or low-temperature curing. The surface is slightly lower than the metal frame, with soft colors and smooth touch, suitable for multi-color designs. The cost is slightly higher than that of baked paint.
Enamel badges with complex craftsmanship, stamped badges, and badges with irregular or composite craftsmanship fall within the category of high-end customization. Enamel badges (hard enamel) require grooves to be carved on a metal body, filled with finely ground enamel glaze, and then fired at high temperatures multiple times. After polishing and grinding, the finished glaze surface is as hard as glass, resistant to corrosion and oxidation, and can be stored for a long time. The color is as transparent as gemstones. However, they are costly and take 15 to 25 days to complete. They are often used for national MEDALS, luxury brand badges, etc. Stamping badges are formed by repeatedly stamping metal sheets with 3D molds to create three-dimensional patterns. Then, they undergo electroplating coloring and surface treatment, featuring a strong three-dimensional effect and clear patterns. However, the mold cost is high, making them suitable for mass production. Irregular-shaped/composite process badges are made by combining multiple techniques to create irregular shapes. They require custom molds, which prolongs the production period and increases costs. They can meet personalized demands such as film and television IP peripherals and art exhibition badges.
In addition, there are special techniques such as embroidered badges and anti-counterfeiting badges. Embroidered badges are embroidered with patterns on fabric through a embroidery machine. They are soft and breathable, suitable for fabric carriers. Anti-counterfeiting badges incorporate elements such as laser codes and fluorescent inks, featuring anti-replication and traceability functions. They are often used for anti-counterfeiting of certificates and high-end products.
Overall, if one pursues rapid delivery under a limited budget, the printing/resin coating process is the preferred choice. If texture and regular requirements are emphasized, the baking varnish/soft enamel process is more suitable. If high-end collection or long-term use is required, enamel/stamping processes should be chosen. If one pursues a personalized design, although the irregular-shaped craftsmanship is costly and takes a long time, it can bring about a unique effect.
Post time: May-01-2025