McLoone Blog

4 Tips for Creative (and Effective) Product Identification

Written by Natalie Anderson | Sep 17, 2024

When it comes to branding, designing the "perfect" nameplate or label can be challenging. With so many materials, textures, patterns, and colors to choose from, it's really easy to get lost in the options. While a basic paper sticker or decal might do the trick for a one-time-use or lower-price product, a metal nameplate or badge is where you can truly get creative! Not only can it help your product stand out, but it also reinforces your product's value - a win-win! 

Here are 4 tips to help boost your creativity and enhance your nameplate's effectiveness:

 

1. Think Outside the Box with Size and Shape

Why stick to the usual? Whether you go for classic or bold, the size and shape of your nameplate can make a huge difference. Get creative! Choose a unique shape or size that enhances your product design and grabs attention. Just remember, keep any and all text or graphics clear and legible, or the creativity of your design really doesn't matter. 

Read our Blog on Metal Nameplate Sizes, here! 

 

2. The Placement is Everything

Where and how you place and incorporate your logo can make a major impact. Will the nameplate be sitting flush, recessed, or stand out? 

Consider the area where your nameplate will be placed - will it help make your logo stand out? Or will it blend in and get ignored? Give your brand the spotlight it deserves with smart placement and enough whitespace. (A logo that is easily seen will also boost that brand recall for future purchases!)

3. Incorporate Color

Don't shy away from using color! While there are some colors dictated by regulations, like "safety orange" on warning labels to ensure safe operating, color can also serve as a really powerful tool for branding and perception! For example, certain colors can instill a sense of luxury or prestige, enticing buyers to choose your product over the competitor's. But, keep in mind, you likely have branding guidelines that your required to stick to - have no fear, we can create an exact color match for any of your brand colors. 

Adding color to your metal nameplate transforms it from a standard component to an eye-catching element. A splash of color to highlight your logo or important text is always a popular option!

 

4. Add Extra Flair with Enhancements

A standout nameplate can be a game-changer, catching the eye of potential customers or reinforcing your brand identity to make a lasting impression. Not only do these enhancements add visual and tactile value, but they can also highlight important information, ensuring it stays intact for years - even in the toughest environments. 

  • Embossed Graphics or Text: Give your nameplate or badge a 3D affect that not only looks and feels expensive, but also improves the durability of the information. (Embossing can't be scratched or worn away, a big positive!) You can read more about embossing here. 

  • Incorporate Patterns or Background Finishes: Include a pattern to make your label or decal look more interesting! (We've also seen patterns used to differentiate between product lines!) Choose from sleep metal or faux finishes, contrasting glosses, and many more! Read more about out pattern options here! 

  • Include a Border: Embossed borders create a visual a tactile dimension, while printed borders can be a decorative element or help call attention to specific details like serial numbers. 

 

 

Need Anything Else?

If creating a nameplate, label, or data plate is a task on your to-do list that you're dreading - no worries. We're here to make it easy. We've got a talented team of in-house designers that are ready to create a nameplate that will stand out on the shelves! Our Customer Care team is also standing by, ready to send you some samples or get you started on some free concept drawings!

Click here to get started.