Scope
Sandblast etch large stainless steel panels with selective paint filling to create logo life signage in painted and raw state.
Our client in Sydney’s west required a striking and durable signage solution for a large industrial complex. Instead of opting for traditional vinyl signage, which can fade, peel, or deteriorate over time, they sought something more creative, architectural, and built to last. The brief was to use stainless steel as the primary medium, taking advantage of its strength, longevity, and ability to hold intricate detailing.
Premier Awards was commissioned to produce a series of large-format stainless steel panels, etched with precision to capture both bold and fine design elements. To enhance the visual depth, selected areas were paint-filled in durable colours, while other sections were left as clear-coated raw etching. This contrast created a dynamic balance of texture and finish, giving the signage a contemporary yet timeless look.
The result was a robust, low-maintenance signage installation that not only fulfilled the client’s desire for long-lasting performance but also delivered a creative and premium aesthetic. By combining advanced etching techniques with thoughtful finishing choices, the project demonstrated how stainless steel can transform signage into a permanent architectural feature rather than a temporary display.
Production
Produce a fine detail masking combination using photomask resist and vinyl mask: etch and selectively paint fill.
This project was completed many years ago, long before the introduction of automated sandblasting systems. At the time, every stage of the work was carried out by hand in a makeshift blasting booth that had been purpose-built to handle the size and complexity of the panels. It was a labour-intensive process that relied heavily on the skill, patience, and experience of our craftsmen. As always, the masking process was absolutely critical to achieving a flawless result. Each stencil was carefully positioned and checked for accuracy to ensure that the artwork lined up perfectly and that every detail was preserved during the blasting.
Unlike stone or deep-relief etching, stainless steel sandblast etching does not produce a significant depth. Instead, it creates a finely abraded surface texture that is consistent, uniform, and ideal for further finishing. This micro-etched surface becomes the ideal vehicle for paint adhesion, securing the coating to the grain of the steel. For this project, we used a high-quality two-pack epoxy paint, carefully applied to the blasted areas. The paint bonded tightly with the roughened surface, ensuring exceptional durability and resistance to wear, weather, and UV exposure.
The result was a series of panels with a crisp, professional finish that combined the raw strength of stainless steel with the sharp contrast of precision paint-fill. Even though this project was produced entirely by hand, the meticulous attention to detail and robust finishing methods ensured the signage would stand the test of time. Many years later, these panels continue to showcase how traditional craftsmanship and thoughtful processes can deliver long-lasting, creative, and highly effective etched signage solutions.
Capability
At Premier Awards, we have the capability to engrave and etch large-format panels that are perfectly suited for architectural signage, landmark features, and creative installations in urban landscapes. Our advanced equipment, combined with decades of technical expertise, allows us to work across a wide range of materials, including stainless steel, brass, stone, glass, and composite substrates. Whether the brief calls for fine detail, bold branding, or large-scale graphic artworks, our processes ensure precision, durability, and a finish that enhances both functionality and aesthetics.
These capabilities make us a trusted partner for architects, designers, and developers looking to deliver projects that stand out in public and commercial environments. From memorial walls and wayfinding systems to artistic installations and corporate identity signage, we combine creativity and technical expertise to produce work that is visually striking and built to last. By combining traditional craftsmanship with innovative technology, Premier Awards helps transform architectural concepts into enduring, high-quality features within the urban landscape.
Gallery
