Make Custom Medals: The Ultimate Guide to Designing Bespoke Medals in the UK
Custom medals are more than just awards — they are lasting symbols of achievement, pride, and recognition. Whether you’re organising a marathon, school competition, charity event, or corporate awards ceremony, choosing to make custom medals gives you the flexibility to create something truly unique and memorable.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about designing and producing custom medals in the UK — from materials and finishes to design tips, trends, and why bespoke medals are the best choice for your event.
Why Make Custom Medals?
Custom medals are more than just awards — they are lasting symbols of achievement, pride, and recognition. Whether you’re organising a marathon, school competition, charity event, or corporate awards ceremony, choosing to make custom medals gives you the flexibility to create something truly unique and memorable.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about designing and producing custom medals in the UK — from materials and finishes to design tips, trends, and why bespoke medals are the best choice for your event.
Why Make Custom Medals?
When you make custom medals, you are creating something that reflects your event’s identity. Unlike generic, off-the-shelf medals, bespoke designs allow you to:
Showcase your event branding and logo
Incorporate meaningful shapes and themes
Choose colours, materials, and finishes
Add personalised text such as names, dates, or distances
Create a premium keepsake participants will cherish
Custom medals elevate your event and leave a lasting impression on participants — especially in competitive sectors like running events, triathlons, and charity challenges.
Types of Custom Medals You Can Make
1. Die-Struck Metal Medals
These are the most popular choice in the UK. Made using a mould, they feature raised and recessed areas for a high-quality finish.
Key Features:
Durable and premium feel
Ideal for enamel infill
Available in gold, silver, bronze, and antique finishes
2. Enamel Infill Medals
Perfect for adding colour and vibrancy to your design.
Benefits:
Bright, eye-catching colours
Great for logos and branding
Smooth or textured finish options
3. Wooden Medals
A growing eco-friendly alternative.
Advantages:
Sustainable material
Lightweight
Ideal for nature-themed or eco-conscious events
4. Acrylic Medals
Modern and versatile.
Highlights:
Full-colour printing
Transparent or frosted finishes
Cost-effective for large orders
5. Epoxy Domed Medals
These feature a glossy resin coating over printed artwork.
Why choose epoxy medals?
High-gloss finish
Photo-quality detail
Scratch-resistant surface
Popular Finishes for Custom Medals
When you make custom medals, the finish plays a huge role in the final look.
Shiny Gold, Silver, Bronze – Classic and prestigious
Antique Finishes – Vintage, textured appearance
Dual Plating – Combine two metal tones for contrast
Matte Finishes – Subtle and modern
Each finish can dramatically change the feel of your medal, so it’s important to match it to your event’s theme.
Design Tips for Custom Medals
Creating a great medal design requires both creativity and strategy. Here are some expert tips:
1. Follow the Shape of Your Logo
Instead of sticking to traditional round medals, consider custom shapes that reflect your branding.
2. Use Cut-Out Sections
Cut-outs add depth and uniqueness while reducing weight.
3. Keep Text Clear and Readable
Avoid overcrowding your medal with too much text. Focus on key details like:
Event name
Year (e.g., 2026)
Distance or category
4. Choose the Right Colours
Use enamel colours that match your brand identity. High contrast works best for visibility.
5. Incorporate Movement and Theme
For sporting events, include dynamic elements like runners, waves, or flames to bring the design to life.
Ribbon Options for Custom Medals
The ribbon is just as important as the medal itself. When you make custom medals, consider:
Sublimated ribbons with full-colour printing
Striped ribbons for classic designs
Double-sided ribbons for added detail
Custom widths and lengths
A well-designed ribbon enhances the overall presentation and branding.
The Process of Making Custom Medals
Here’s a step-by-step overview of how to make custom medals:
Step 1: Concept & Design
Start with your idea, logo, and event details.
Step 2: Artwork Creation
Professional designers create a visual mock-up.
Step 3: Approval
You review and approve the design before production.
Step 4: Manufacturing
The medal is produced using die-casting or stamping techniques.
Step 5: Finishing & Assembly
Enamel is added, plating applied, and ribbons attached.
Step 6: Delivery
Your medals are shipped, typically within 2–3 weeks.
Why Choose a UK Supplier?
If you’re planning to make custom medals, working with a UK-based supplier offers several advantages:
Faster turnaround times
Easier communication
No import complications
Reliable quality control
A leading choice for many event organisers is bespokesportsmedals.com, known for high-quality production, fast lead times, and excellent customer service.
Custom Medals for Different Events
Running Events & Marathons
Participants expect bold, high-quality medals. Consider large designs with vibrant enamel and unique shapes.
Triathlons & Cycling Events
Incorporate multi-sport elements and dynamic visuals.
Charity Events
Bright colours and meaningful symbols help reinforce your cause.
School Awards
Affordable options with custom branding and motivational designs.
Corporate Awards
Elegant finishes like antique gold or silver create a premium feel.
Trends in Custom Medal Design (2026 and Beyond)
The custom medal industry is constantly evolving. Here are some key trends:
Interlocking medals (collect multiple pieces that fit together)
Glow-in-the-dark elements
Spinning or moving parts
Eco-friendly materials
Minimalist modern designs
Staying on trend can make your event stand out and increase participant engagement.
Cost of Making Custom Medals
Pricing depends on several factors:
Quantity ordered
Size and thickness
Number of colours
Type of finish
Complexity of design
Bulk orders significantly reduce the cost per medal, making custom options surprisingly affordable — sometimes starting from under £1 per unit.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When you make custom medals, avoid these pitfalls:
Overcomplicated designs
Poor colour contrast
Forgetting to proofread text
Leaving production too late
Choosing the wrong supplier
Working with an experienced provider ensures a smooth process and high-quality result.
Final Thoughts
To make custom medals is to create something far more meaningful than a simple award. It’s about capturing the spirit of an event, celebrating achievement, and giving participants something they’ll treasure for years to come.
Whether you’re planning a local fun run, a national sporting event, or a corporate awards night, investing in bespoke medal design is one of the best decisions you can make.
For premium quality, expert design support, and competitive pricing, many organisers across the UK trust bespokesportsmedals.com — a leading supplier dedicated to bringing your medal ideas to life.
When you make custom medals, you are creating something that reflects your event’s identity. Unlike generic, off-the-shelf medals, bespoke designs allow you to:
- Showcase your event branding and logo
- Incorporate meaningful shapes and themes
- Choose colours, materials, and finishes
- Add personalised text such as names, dates, or distances
- Create a premium keepsake participants will cherish
Custom medals elevate your event and leave a lasting impression on participants — especially in competitive sectors like running events, triathlons, and charity challenges.
Types of Custom Medals You Can Make
1. Die-Struck Metal Medals
These are the most popular choice in the UK. Made using a mould, they feature raised and recessed areas for a high-quality finish.
Key Features:
- Durable and premium feel
- Ideal for enamel infill
- Available in gold, silver, bronze, and antique finishes
2. Enamel Infill Medals
Perfect for adding colour and vibrancy to your design.
Benefits:
- Bright, eye-catching colours
- Great for logos and branding
- Smooth or textured finish options
3. Wooden Medals
A growing eco-friendly alternative.
Advantages:
- Sustainable material
- Lightweight
- Ideal for nature-themed or eco-conscious events
4. Acrylic Medals
Modern and versatile.
Highlights:
- Full-colour printing
- Transparent or frosted finishes
- Cost-effective for large orders
5. Epoxy Domed Medals
These feature a glossy resin coating over printed artwork.
Why choose epoxy medals?
- High-gloss finish
- Photo-quality detail
- Scratch-resistant surface
Popular Finishes for Custom Medals
When you make custom medals, the finish plays a huge role in the final look.
- Shiny Gold, Silver, Bronze – Classic and prestigious
- Antique Finishes – Vintage, textured appearance
- Dual Plating – Combine two metal tones for contrast
- Matte Finishes – Subtle and modern
Each finish can dramatically change the feel of your medal, so it’s important to match it to your event’s theme.
Design Tips for Custom Medals
Creating a great medal design requires both creativity and strategy. Here are some expert tips:
1. Follow the Shape of Your Logo
Instead of sticking to traditional round medals, consider custom shapes that reflect your branding.
2. Use Cut-Out Sections
Cut-outs add depth and uniqueness while reducing weight.
3. Keep Text Clear and Readable
Avoid overcrowding your medal with too much text. Focus on key details like:
- Event name
- Year (e.g., 2026)
- Distance or category
4. Choose the Right Colours
Use enamel colours that match your brand identity. High contrast works best for visibility.
5. Incorporate Movement and Theme
For sporting events, include dynamic elements like runners, waves, or flames to bring the design to life.
Ribbon Options for Custom Medals
The ribbon is just as important as the medal itself. When you make custom medals, consider:
- Sublimated ribbons with full-colour printing
- Striped ribbons for classic designs
- Double-sided ribbons for added detail
- Custom widths and lengths
A well-designed ribbon enhances the overall presentation and branding.
The Process of Making Custom Medals
Here’s a step-by-step overview of how to make custom medals:
Step 1: Concept & Design
Start with your idea, logo, and event details.
Step 2: Artwork Creation
Professional designers create a visual mock-up.
Step 3: Approval
You review and approve the design before production.
Step 4: Manufacturing
The medal is produced using die-casting or stamping techniques.
Step 5: Finishing & Assembly
Enamel is added, plating applied, and ribbons attached.
Step 6: Delivery
Your medals are shipped, typically within 2–3 weeks.
Why Choose a UK Supplier?
If you’re planning to make custom medals, working with a UK-based supplier offers several advantages:
- Faster turnaround times
- Easier communication
- No import complications
- Reliable quality control
A leading choice for many event organisers is bespoke sports medals, known for high-quality production, fast lead times, and excellent customer service.
Custom Medals for Different Events
Running Events & Marathons
Participants expect bold, high-quality medals. Consider large designs with vibrant enamel and unique shapes.
Triathlons & Cycling Events
Incorporate multi-sport elements and dynamic visuals.
Charity Events
Bright colours and meaningful symbols help reinforce your cause.
School Awards
Affordable options with custom branding and motivational designs.
Corporate Awards
Elegant finishes like antique gold or silver create a premium feel.
Trends in Custom Medal Design (2026 and Beyond)
The custom medal industry is constantly evolving. Here are some key trends:
- Interlocking medals (collect multiple pieces that fit together)
- Glow-in-the-dark elements
- Spinning or moving parts
- Eco-friendly materials
- Minimalist modern designs
Staying on trend can make your event stand out and increase participant engagement.
Cost of Making Custom Medals
Pricing depends on several factors:
- Quantity ordered
- Size and thickness
- Number of colours
- Type of finish
- Complexity of design
Bulk orders significantly reduce the cost per medal, making custom options surprisingly affordable — sometimes starting from under £1 per unit.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When you make custom medals, avoid these pitfalls:
- Overcomplicated designs
- Poor colour contrast
- Forgetting to proofread text
- Leaving production too late
- Choosing the wrong supplier
Working with an experienced provider ensures a smooth process and high-quality result.
Final Thoughts
Custom medals are more than just awards — they are lasting symbols of achievement, pride, and recognition. Whether you’re organising a marathon, school competition, charity event, or corporate awards ceremony, choosing to make custom medals gives you the flexibility to create something truly unique and memorable.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about designing and producing custom medals in the UK — from materials and finishes to design tips, trends, and why bespoke medals are the best choice for your event.
Why Make Custom Medals?
When you make custom medals, you are creating something that reflects your event’s identity. Unlike generic, off-the-shelf medals, bespoke designs allow you to:
Showcase your event branding and logo
Incorporate meaningful shapes and themes
Choose colours, materials, and finishes
Add personalised text such as names, dates, or distances
Create a premium keepsake participants will cherish
Custom medals elevate your event and leave a lasting impression on participants — especially in competitive sectors like running events, triathlons, and charity challenges.
Types of Custom Medals You Can Make
1. Die-Struck Metal Medals
These are the most popular choice in the UK. Made using a mould, they feature raised and recessed areas for a high-quality finish.
Key Features:
Durable and premium feel
Ideal for enamel infill
Available in gold, silver, bronze, and antique finishes
2. Enamel Infill Medals
Perfect for adding colour and vibrancy to your design.
Benefits:
Bright, eye-catching colours
Great for logos and branding
Smooth or textured finish options
3. Wooden Medals
A growing eco-friendly alternative.
Advantages:
Sustainable material
Lightweight
Ideal for nature-themed or eco-conscious events
4. Acrylic Medals
Modern and versatile.
Highlights:
Full-colour printing
Transparent or frosted finishes
Cost-effective for large orders
5. Epoxy Domed Medals
These feature a glossy resin coating over printed artwork.
Why choose epoxy medals?
High-gloss finish
Photo-quality detail
Scratch-resistant surface
Popular Finishes for Custom Medals
When you make custom medals, the finish plays a huge role in the final look.
Shiny Gold, Silver, Bronze – Classic and prestigious
Antique Finishes – Vintage, textured appearance
Dual Plating – Combine two metal tones for contrast
Matte Finishes – Subtle and modern
Each finish can dramatically change the feel of your medal, so it’s important to match it to your event’s theme.
Design Tips for Custom Medals
Creating a great medal design requires both creativity and strategy. Here are some expert tips:
1. Follow the Shape of Your Logo
Instead of sticking to traditional round medals, consider custom shapes that reflect your branding.
2. Use Cut-Out Sections
Cut-outs add depth and uniqueness while reducing weight.
3. Keep Text Clear and Readable
Avoid overcrowding your medal with too much text. Focus on key details like:
Event name
Year (e.g., 2026)
Distance or category
4. Choose the Right Colours
Use enamel colours that match your brand identity. High contrast works best for visibility.
5. Incorporate Movement and Theme
For sporting events, include dynamic elements like runners, waves, or flames to bring the design to life.
Ribbon Options for Custom Medals
The ribbon is just as important as the medal itself. When you make custom medals, consider:
Sublimated ribbons with full-colour printing
Striped ribbons for classic designs
Double-sided ribbons for added detail
Custom widths and lengths
A well-designed ribbon enhances the overall presentation and branding.
The Process of Making Custom Medals
Here’s a step-by-step overview of how to make custom medals:
Step 1: Concept & Design
Start with your idea, logo, and event details.
Step 2: Artwork Creation
Professional designers create a visual mock-up.
Step 3: Approval
You review and approve the design before production.
Step 4: Manufacturing
The medal is produced using die-casting or stamping techniques.
Step 5: Finishing & Assembly
Enamel is added, plating applied, and ribbons attached.
Step 6: Delivery
Your medals are shipped, typically within 2–3 weeks.
Why Choose a UK Supplier?
If you’re planning to make custom medals, working with a UK-based supplier offers several advantages:
Faster turnaround times
Easier communication
No import complications
Reliable quality control
A leading choice for many event organisers is bespokesportsmedals.com, known for high-quality production, fast lead times, and excellent customer service.
Custom Medals for Different Events
Running Events & Marathons
Participants expect bold, high-quality medals. Consider large designs with vibrant enamel and unique shapes.
Triathlons & Cycling Events
Incorporate multi-sport elements and dynamic visuals.
Charity Events
Bright colours and meaningful symbols help reinforce your cause.
School Awards
Affordable options with custom branding and motivational designs.
Corporate Awards
Elegant finishes like antique gold or silver create a premium feel.
Trends in Custom Medal Design (2026 and Beyond)
The custom medal industry is constantly evolving. Here are some key trends:
Interlocking medals (collect multiple pieces that fit together)
Glow-in-the-dark elements
Spinning or moving parts
Eco-friendly materials
Minimalist modern designs
Staying on trend can make your event stand out and increase participant engagement.
Cost of Making Custom Medals
Pricing depends on several factors:
Quantity ordered
Size and thickness
Number of colours
Type of finish
Complexity of design
Bulk orders significantly reduce the cost per medal, making custom options surprisingly affordable — sometimes starting from under £1 per unit.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When you make custom medals, avoid these pitfalls:
Overcomplicated designs
Poor colour contrast
Forgetting to proofread text
Leaving production too late
Choosing the wrong supplier
Working with an experienced provider ensures a smooth process and high-quality result.
Final Thoughts
To make custom medals is to create something far more meaningful than a simple award. It’s about capturing the spirit of an event, celebrating achievement, and giving participants something they’ll treasure for years to come.
Whether you’re planning a local fun run, a national sporting event, or a corporate awards night, investing in bespoke medal design is one of the best decisions you can make.
For premium quality, expert design support, and competitive pricing, many organisers across the UK trust bespokesportsmedals.com — a leading supplier dedicated to bringing your medal ideas to life.
To make custom medals is to create something far more meaningful than a simple award. It’s about capturing the spirit of an event, celebrating achievement, and giving participants something they’ll treasure for years to come.
Whether you’re planning a local fun run, a national sporting event, or a corporate awards night, investing in bespoke medal design is one of the best decisions you can make.
For premium quality, expert design support, and competitive pricing, many organisers across the UK trust bespoke sports medals — a leading supplier dedicated to bringing your medal ideas to life.