Imprint Process Comparison
CNC Engraving
The most permanent metal engraving process. The lettering is cut into the surface by rotary engraving and then filled with paint. It is also the most expensive option.
- OUTDOOR OK
- Engraved into the surface 0.5mm
- Paint filled
- Permanent Marking 30 years plus
- $$$
Acid Etched
The most permanent metal engraving process. The lettering is cut into the surface and then filled with paint. It is also the most expensive option.
- OUTDOOR OK
- Engraved into the surface 0.3mm
- Paint filled
- Permanent Marking 30 years plus
- $$$
Sandblast Etched
A cost-effective Alternative to Acid Etching. The lettering is surface etched and then coated with paint. It delivers crisp detail and long-lasting results, making them ideal for signage, plaques, and commemorative pieces without the higher expense of traditional acid etching.
- OUTDOOR OK
- Surface etching
- paint filled
- Permanent Marking 15 years plus
- $$
Laser Anneal
A cost-effective Alternative to Acid Etching. The lettering is surface etched and then coated with paint. It delivers crisp detail and long-lasting results, making it ideal for signage, plaques, and commemorative pieces without the higher expense of traditional acid etching.
- OUTDOOR OK
- Surface etching
- paint filled
- Permanent Marking 15 years plus
- $$
Acid Etched Stainless Steel
Acid etching is a premium process that engraves into the surface of stainless steel, creating a design or text that sits below the surface of the metal. This creates a permanent, high-quality mark that can be colour filled with two-pack epoxy paint for added contrast.
Durability: 50 Years + | Scratch Resistant | Resistant to Harsh Chemicals
Used For: Premium plaques, compliance plates and labels, architectural signs, and memorial plaques
Look: Clean, recessed engraving with paint fill
Best For: Projects needing a polished, long-lasting finish
Advantages: Excellent detail and depth of engraving, clean professional appearance
Price: $$$
Sandblast Etched Stainless Steel
Sandblast Etching and two-pack epoxy paint fill create a permanent surface mark on stainless steel by blasting through a stencil, producing a sharp, clean etch finish with lasting durability. It’s a more economical alternative to acid etching, while still delivering a professional finish suitable for various signage and plaque applications.
Durability: 25 Years + | Scratch Resistant
Used For: Signs, plaques, labels, compliance plates
Look: Surface etch with bold paint-filled lettering
Best For: Durable, cost-effective outdoor or indoor signage
Advantages: Excellent crisp finish, and is a more economical alternative to acid etching
Price: $$
Laser Annealed Stainless Steel
Laser annealing produces a permanent black marking on stainless steel by using heat to alter the surface. No material is removed; instead, the laser changes the colour of the metal, resulting in a permanent dark, smooth finish that’s flush with the surface. This method is ideal for applications where hygiene and surface integrity matter, such as in the medical, food, or electronics industries. It’s also well-suited to industrial labels where a sleek, low-profile finish is preferred.
Durability: 50 Years + | Scratch Resistant | Excellent Chemical Resistance
Used For: Compliance plates, medical tools, asset tags
Look: Smooth black mark on unetched surface
Best For: Industrial use, hygienic environments, cleanroom settings
Advantages: Hygienic properties, economical laser marking process
Price: $$
BrassTone Stainless Steel
Sandblast Etching with paint fill on gold-coloured stainless steel creates a permanent surface etching, producing crisp, detailed results. This method offers a cost-effective alternative to acid etching and traditional Brass Plaques, delivering an elegant and lasting result ideal for plaques, signage, and commemorative panels.
Durability: 15 Years + | Scratch Resistant
Used For: Signs, commemorative plaques, labels, compliance plates,
Look: Brushed gold background with crisp, black paint-filled engraving
Best For: Long-lasting applications with a prestigious finish
Price: $$
Sublimated Stainless Steel
Sublimation involves applying a sub-surface full colour printed design onto specially coated stainless steel. This process allows for photo-quality images, gradients, and vibrant colours that traditional engraving methods can’t achieve. It’s a great option for indoor signage. Not recommended for outdoor use as prolonged exposure will lead to fading.
Durability: Indoor Only | Scratch resistant | Chemical Resistant
Used For: Photo plaques, colourful indoor classy signage and labels, decorative panels
Look: Full-colour, high-resolution print on a satin stainless finish
Best For: Indoor use where colour and detail are important
Advantages: Rich, full-colour print for indoor use
Price: $
Gallery
Types of Stainless Steel Engraving
