Manufacturer · Fashion & Home Accessories
Engraved metal buttons are buttons that carry a logo, crest or lettering applied by die embossing, laser engraving or a combination with enamel. Embossing is the classic choice for jackets, blazers, uniforms and jeans, while laser is suitable for smaller runs and for fine details on coated buttons.
Why metal buttons are the most popular choice for logos
Metal is the material on which a logo looks most impressive. It allows deep relief, sharp edges and a wide choice of finishes, and the button is heavy and feels like a quality detail. The historical roots matter too: military uniforms, club blazers and school jackets have carried metal crest buttons for decades. That is why, when a brand wants a classic, "solid" look, it most often chooses engraved metal buttons.
Methods for a logo on metal buttons
Embossing with a die
The logo is made as a steel die with which the button is stamped. The result is a raised or recessed image with clear depth. This is the most durable option – the logo cannot wear off, because it is the shape of the metal itself. The die is a one-off investment and is used for all subsequent orders of the same style.
Laser engraving
On buttons with an electroplated or lacquer finish, the laser removes the top layer and reveals the base metal or underlayer. This creates a contrasting logo without a die. The method is convenient for personalising stock styles and for smaller runs.
Enamel
The recessed areas of the relief are filled with coloured enamel. This gives the crest or logo colour – for example red and blue on gold. Enamel requires clearly separated areas in the design and must always be checked on a sample.
Finishes and how they affect the logo
| Finish | Look | How the logo looks |
|---|---|---|
| Polished gold | shiny, formal | the relief plays with the light |
| Antique gold / antique brass | vintage, classic | the recesses are darker and the logo stands out |
| Nickel colour (nickel free), silver | modern, cool | clean, sharp outline |
| Oxidised, black nickel colour (nickel free) | dark, discreet | contrast when the raised parts are polished |
| Copper, bronze | warm, workwear | typical of jeans and workwear |
| Matte with lacquer | calm, minimalist | suitable for laser with a contrasting underlayer |
Patinated finishes are particularly rewarding for relief, because the dark recesses naturally highlight the logo without the need for additional colour.
Metal logo button styles by garment
Jackets and blazers
Shank buttons (a loop on the back), usually in two sizes – a larger one for the front and a smaller one for the sleeves. Classic motifs are a crest, an anchor, a monogram or the brand name around the edge. See also our men's buttons for style ideas.
Coats and uniforms
Larger diameters and pronounced relief. On uniforms the logo is often an obligatory emblem of the organisation, and the finish must be identical across all batches.
Jeans and work trousers
Jeans buttons are attached with a pin rather than sewn on. The logo is embossed around the edge or in the centre. Besides the main button, brands often also brand the rivets on the pockets.
Jackets and knitwear
Metal logo buttons are also used on bomber jackets, cardigans and knitted coats, where they are an accent and are seen up close.
How to prepare your logo for a metal button
For embossing, it is important to decide which elements of the logo will be raised and which will form the background. A simple mark with clear outlines works best; very thin lines and small text get lost in stamping, because the metal "flows" around them. If you want lettering around the edge and a mark in the centre, specify both elements separately. With enamel, each colour must be a closed area separated by a thin metal wall. Prepare a vector file with fonts converted to outlines and, if possible, a separate version for the small sleeve size.
Shape and profile of the button
Besides the logo, choose the profile: a flat button, a slightly domed one or a strongly domed one. A flat button shows the logo most clearly. A domed one is more classic for blazers but slightly distorts the image at the edges, so the logo is drawn in towards the centre. The rim can be smooth, milled or ornamented to frame the mark.
Combining with other branded accessories
Metal logo buttons often go together with metal logo plates, buckles, eyelets and rivets in the same finish. When all the metal details of a garment are in one tone and carry the same mark, the collection looks well thought out. If you are planning such a set, mention it in your inquiry so that the finish of all elements can be matched.
Care and durability
Metal buttons withstand washing, but finishes differ in durability. Patinated and oxidised surfaces may wear slightly on the raised parts over time, which is often a desired vintage effect. For dry cleaning, it is recommended to protect the buttons or remove them temporarily if the garment maker requires it. When ordering, tell us how the garment will be cared for so that the right finish can be chosen.
What determines the price
- the base material – brass, zinc alloy, iron;
- the size and shape of the button;
- the embossing die, if a new one is made;
- the type of finish and the number of enamel colours;
- the quantity and the number of sizes.
For a specific figure, send a quote request with these details.
Ordering engraved metal buttons from Polkom
Polkom is a Sofia-based manufacturer of accessories for fashion, furniture, footwear and bags, with over 30 years of experience. All our metal finishes are nickel free. We produce engraved buttons with logo on metal buttons in various sizes and finishes, make samples for approval and deliver within the EU. Minimum quantities depend on the article. Send an inquiry with your logo, the type of garment and the finish you want.
