Custom Medal Design & Specification Guide

Translate the event identity into readable relief

Set the finished diameter or outer dimensions before refining small detail. Decide which elements must read at arm's length, which areas become raised or recessed metal, and where enamel or printed detail adds useful contrast.

Edition, distance, category, and date information should be checked as text before tooling. When one event has several distances or award classes, define which parts remain shared and which need variable artwork or attachments.

Specify the medal, ribbon, and reverse together

Ribbon width and artwork affect the visual weight of the medal. The loop, ring, or connector affects orientation. Reverse detail can carry sponsors, distance, event information, or a controlled texture, but it also changes tooling and proof content.

• Confirm front and reverse artwork at actual finished size
• Show ribbon direction, repeat, edge, and joining method
• Identify shared and variable versions before quoting
• Confirm individual protection so finishes do not rub in transit

Use the sample and production record to protect reorders

Where a physical sample is part of the project, check legibility, relief, enamel boundaries, finish, ribbon assembly, weight, edge feel, and packaging contact. Record every accepted correction against the final sample.

For an annual event, retain the approved dimensions, tooling reference, finish, ribbon construction, packaging, and carton notes. The next edition can then change only what is intentional rather than reconstructing the product from photographs.