Why Invest In A 3D Trophy?

Anyone who has ever entered a contest or competition will certainly agree that doing well enough to receive a cup or award is one of the highlights of such an experience. And while, until a few years ago, said pieces were barely more than standard metal or wood goblets with maybe an etched or woodcut plaque attached to them, the technology available nowadays enables experts to whip out a 3D trophy on a specialised printer with a minimum of effort and without huge additional costs - resulting in an even more visually pleasing ornament for the recipient's mantelpiece.

Why choose three-dimensional printing?

As with everything else in life, however, there may still be those who do not see the point in splashing for a 3D trophy when they could perfectly well get a ‘regular’ cup for an arguably lower price. And while the members of this contingent may have a point, the truth is these kind of pieces offer a number of strong suits that set them apart from, and on a higher level than, the standard cups of old.

The first of these advantages is undoubtedly the higher degree of customisation available to both the buyer and the designer. The software-based nature of three-dimensional printing and laser engraving allows modifications to be made ‘at the drop of a hat’, a situation which was not at all feasible with the traditional methods of old. Alterations are also easier to carry out, since they will most likely be undertaken before the final piece is brought to life, therefore avoiding wastage of material, leaving room for a higher level or personalisation and ensuring customer satisfaction.

Another advantage a 3D trophy may have over a regular one is the more extensive ‘playing field’ it allows for. As noted above, cups and awards from the old days were very much confined to a set number of designs and templates, the only ones the technology of the time allowed for. Current developments, however, allow designers to be much more creative when coming up with their creations; they are able to work in a variety of styles, apply different techniques and even mix different materials into the engraving, which in turn leads to a much wider scope of possible appearances and designs.

Last, but certainly not least, one must also factor in the question of price. While by no means free, a 3D trophy may work out significantly cheaper than an old-fashioned, traditionally made one, simply because production and manufacturing costs are much lower. With the actual printing process being mostly software-based, all anyone will need to create one of these trophies is a computer, a compatible printer and software, and some technological knowledge. An increasing number of users are opting to try their hand at such pieces themselves. The lower cost of equipment and materials also means companies ordering in bulk for an event can expect to pay significantly less than before, and may even receive a discount.

It is clear, then, that despite any feelings of reluctance the ‘old guard’ may have about them, this technique does have a solid place in the current market.

George Berdichevsky is the Founder of 3Design Center, which designs image files to be used in engraving machines for 3D trophy designs. His team of talented artists can create bespoke images suitable for 3D trophies from any idea or image. Visit the website for more information.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.