Introduction
A custom medal is more than a reward — it is a symbol of achievement, identity, and pride.
Whether you’re designing medals for a marathon, corporate awards, a school ceremony, or a commemorative event, the design determines how it will be remembered.
This guide walks you through each step of creating the perfect custom medal, from concept sketch to final production-ready art.
1. Define the Purpose of the Medal
Every great medal begins with a clear purpose. Ask yourself:
- Is this medal for sports, corporate recognition, education, or commemoration?
- Should the medal feel premium, fun, traditional, or modern?
- What message or emotion do you want the recipient to feel?
The purpose influences the shape, material, finish, and ribbon style.
2. Choose the Shape & Size
While round medals are the most traditional, today’s custom medals offer limitless possibilities.
Popular Shapes:
- Round
- Shield
- Star
- Rectangle
- Crest
- Custom outline (logo shape, mascot shape, map shape)
Typical Sizes:
- 50mm
- 60mm
- 70mm
- Or fully customized
Larger medals provide more space for details and 3D sculpting.
3. Select the Right Material
Medal materials determine weight, durability, and price.
| Material | Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Zinc Alloy | 3D freedom & custom shapes | Sports / Events |
| Brass | Premium detail & weight | Corporate / Government |
| Iron | Strong & budget-friendly | School / Mass Events |
| Stainless Steel | Modern look | Corporate / Tech |
Choose based on design complexity and target audience.
4. Decide on the Metal Finish
The finish creates the medal’s personality.
Popular Finishes:
- Gold plating
- Silver plating
- Bronze
- Antique gold / antique silver
- Black nickel
- Dual plating (gold + silver)
- Matte / brushed finish
- High-polish mirror finish
Choose finishes based on mood: prestige, legacy, modernity, or boldness.
5. Add Logo, Text, and Symbols
A custom medal must reflect the identity of the event or organization.
Elements to include:
- Logo
- Event name
- Year / date
- Slogan or motto
- Icons / symbolic graphics
Keep designs simple and meaningful — avoid overcrowding.
6. Choose Enamel Coloring
Adding colors helps a medal stand out and match brand identity.
Color Options:
- Soft enamel — textured finish with raised metal lines
- Hard enamel — smooth, premium jewel-like finish
- Transparent enamel — allows metal texture to show
- Glow-in-the-dark — fun and unique for events
7. Design the Ribbon
The ribbon is an essential part of the medal experience.
Ribbon types:
- Satin ribbon
- Wide ribbon
- Gradient ribbon
- Custom-printed ribbon (logos, text)
- National flag ribbon
Match ribbon color to event theme or brand palette.
8. Consider the Backside Design
The back of the medal is perfect for personalization.
Add:
- Names
- Serial numbers
- Event details
- QR codes
- Special dedications
Laser engraving is a popular method.
9. Review, Approve & Prototype
Before producing in bulk, request a pre-production sample or high-resolution 3D rendering.
Check:
- Size
- Color accuracy
- Logo clarity
- Weight and thickness
- Ribbon stitching
This ensures the final product meets expectations.
10. Final Production & Packaging
Once approved, the medal undergoes:
- Mold making
- Casting / stamping
- Polishing
- Plating
- Coloring
- Assembly
- Packaging
Premium boxes elevate the presentation and perceived value.
✅ Conclusion
Designing a custom medal is a journey of creativity and meaning.
Each choice — shape, finish, color, ribbon — influences how the medal will be remembered.
At our factory, we guide you through every step to ensure your medal becomes a lasting symbol of achievement and pride.
👉 Ready to design your own custom medal?
We can turn your ideas into reality with professional design, precision manufacturing, and fast global shipping.
