Frequently Asked Questions

Planning a custom promotional gift project means confirming more than just a product choice. Design feasibility, material, production process, quantity, pricing, sample approval, packaging, quality control and delivery timing all need answers before you commit to a supplier.
This FAQ center answers the questions we receive from promotional product distributors, corporate buyers, event companies, gift companies, importers, wholesalers, sourcing managers, brands and marketing agencies. Browse by category to find practical information about custom lapel pins, challenge coins, keychains, fridge magnets, badges and other custom promotional gifts.
If your question is not covered here, send us your logo, artwork or product idea for a direct review. We reply to project inquiries within 12 hours.

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FAQ

Find Answers by Topic

Choose a topic to jump directly to the questions most relevant to your project.

Design & Artwork

 Logo files, sketches, artwork review, custom shapes and free design support.

 MOQ, Pricing & Quotations

 Minimum quantities, mold fees, cost factors and quotation requirements.

Samples & Lead Time

 Artwork proofs, physical samples, production schedules and urgent projects.

Materials & Customization

Materials, plating, enamel, printing, attachments and personalization.

Production & Quality

Factory workflow, bulk consistency, inspection and defect handling.

Packaging & Shipping

Packaging options, shipment preparation, international delivery and reorders.

About Badge Artisans and Our Manufacturing Service

These questions help buyers understand who we are, what we manufacture and how we support professional custom gift projects.

Badge Artisans is a factory-based custom promotional gifts manufacturer. We have an in-house design team, mold workshop, die casting and stamping lines, polishing and plating facilities, coloring and printing stations, assembly lines, QC department and packaging area — all under one roof. Our workflow covers artwork preparation, mold development, die casting, stamping, polishing, plating, coloring, printing, laser engraving, assembly, quality control, packaging and shipment preparation. You are welcome to visit the factory or request a video tour.

→ See our facility

We have focused on custom promotional gifts since 2010. Over 15 years, we have completed projects for distributors, corporate programs, events, tourism retail, brand campaigns, clubs, hospitality companies and international sourcing teams.

Our main product lines are: Custom lapel pins, custom challenge coins, custom keychains, custom fridge magnets, custom badges, custom medals, custom bottle openers, custom golf tools, custom souvenir gifts, awards and trophies. We primarily work with zinc alloy, iron, brass, copper, stainless steel, aluminum, soft PVC, rubber, acrylic and wood. Some projects combine multiple materials.

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We support trade and professional buyers: promotional product distributors, corporate procurement teams, event companies, gift companies, brands, importers and wholesalers, sourcing managers, marketing agencies, tourism and souvenir buyers, clubs and organizations. If you are buying for resale, corporate gifting, event giveaways, retail merchandise or membership programs, our production setup is built for your order profile.

Yes. OEM projects typically start with an existing logo, artwork, product drawing, sample or specification. ODM projects may begin with a product idea, campaign theme, reference image, market requirement or desired function. Our team develops the product structure and production proposal from your input.

→ Learn about our process

Our factory holds BSCI, ISO 9001, Disney, Reach, RoHS, TUV Rheinland, Sedex and SGS certifications. We can provide current certificate copies for your supplier review process. Contact us for the latest versions rather than relying on website images, since certifications are periodically renewed and updated.

→ View certification details

MOQ, Pricing & Quotation Questions

Custom promotional gift pricing depends on product specifications, not a fixed catalog price. These questions explain the main cost and quotation factors.

For most custom metal promotional gifts, the standard MOQ is 100 pieces per design. The actual MOQ may vary by product category, material, production method, number of designs, accessories, packaging and tooling requirements. Orders below 100 pieces can sometimes be reviewed, but the unit price is usually higher.

Custom products need artwork preparation, mold making, machine setup, plating setup, color preparation, assembly and quality control. These fixed production costs are spread across the order quantity. Very small orders carry a much higher cost per piece because the setup work is the same whether you order 10 pieces or 1,000.

Please send: product type, quantity, number of designs, logo or artwork, approximate size, material preference, plating or finish preference, coloring or printing method, attachment requirements, packaging requirements, shipping country and required delivery date. The more complete the information, the more accurate the quotation. We provide detailed quotes within 12 hours when complete project details are submitted.

The main pricing factors: material, size, thickness, weight, quantity, mold complexity, 2D or 3D relief, number of colors, plating finish, printing process, accessories, packaging, number of versions and shipping method.

Many custom metal products require a mold fee for the first order. The mold fee depends on product size, shape complexity, 2D or 3D detail, number of sides, functional structure and tooling method. For large-volume orders, mold fee arrangements may be reviewed. If your product can use an existing mold from our library, the mold fee is waived and the lead time is shorter.

No. If the same mold is still usable and the design does not change, repeat orders do not require a new mold fee. We store molds for repeat production. Changes to size, shape, relief or structure may require a new mold.

Yes. You can ask for quantity breaks such as 100, 300, 500, 1,000 and 5,000 pieces. This helps you compare how setup costs and production efficiency affect the unit price at each tier.

For new clients, our standard terms are T/T 30% deposit before production and 70% balance before shipment. Long-term clients may apply for net terms (Net 30 or Net 60). We accept payments in USD, EUR and RMB. The exact payment schedule is confirmed in the quotation and proforma invoice.

Design & Artwork Questions

You do not need a finished production file before contacting us. These answers explain how we review logos, artwork, sketches and product ideas.

Yes. You can start with a logo, a sketch, a reference image, a product photo, an event poster, a brand guideline, a written product idea or a campaign theme. Our in-house design team turns your input into production-ready artwork.

Artwork preparation and design support are free for active custom order projects. There is no limit on revisions. This covers logo cleanup, product layout, custom shape planning, color separation, plating notes, attachment positioning and digital proof preparation. We deliver an initial design proof within 24 hours for projects with clear information and usable artwork. Complex designs, multiple versions or 3D product development may take longer.

→ Learn more: free-design-service

Preferred formats for production: AI, CDR, PDF, EPS. For 3D projects: STL files. We also review PNG, JPG, PSD, reference photos and hand sketches. Vector files produce the best result, but they are not required to begin an inquiry.

→ See full file specifications

Yes. Send your Pantone references, brand guideline or approved color values. Color appearance can vary slightly depending on enamel type, printing process, metal finish, material surface and lighting. For projects with strict brand requirements, we confirm the color method and sample approval process before bulk production.

Yes. Most metal promotional gifts can be manufactured in custom logo shapes, mascot outlines, product silhouettes, landmarks, shields, symbols and other custom contours. Feasibility depends on product size, minimum line thickness, small cut-out areas, structural strength, attachment position and functional requirements. We review your design and tell you honestly what works.

We can use a reference image to understand your preferred shape, construction, finish or style. Buyers should provide artwork they are legally authorized to use. We may recommend adjusting the design rather than reproducing another brand’s protected product exactly.

Yes. Depending on the product, confirmation may include a 2D artwork proof, digital product mockup, 3D rendering, mold drawing, sample photographs, sample video or physical sample. We recommend the right approval method based on your product structure and project requirements.

For projects with clear product information and usable artwork, an initial design proof is typically ready within 24 hours. Complex designs, multiple versions or 3D product development may take longer. We confirm the timeline when we review your materials.

Samples, Proof Approval & Lead Time

Approving the right proof or sample reduces production risk. The best confirmation method depends on your deadline, product complexity and quality requirements.

Yes. Depending on the project, you may approve an artwork proof, digital mockup, sample photos, sample video or a physical pre-production sample. We do not start bulk production until you confirm the sample. Physical samples are useful for projects that need strict confirmation of weight, finish, function or packaging. Shipping a physical sample adds time and cost.

A physical custom sample typically takes 7 to 10 days after artwork approval. The schedule may vary depending on mold complexity, material, plating, coloring or printing, accessories, packaging and the number of revisions.

Bulk production typically takes 15 to 18 days after sample or artwork approval. Complex designs, large quantities, mixed materials, special packaging or multiple versions may need more time. Shipping time is separate from production time.

Yes. Photo or video confirmation works well for projects with tight deadlines. We can show front and back design, plating, color, printing, attachment, product function and packaging. A physical sample remains available when required.

Yes. Our rush order options include using existing molds to skip tooling time, choosing UV printing instead of enamel to cut drying time, and prioritizing your job in the production schedule. Under the right conditions, production can complete in as fast as 7 days. Rush orders do not carry a surcharge, but process choices may be more limited. Send your event date and required arrival date at the beginning. We will tell you honestly whether the schedule is realistic.

Ready to get a quote?

Send your project details and receive a quotation within 12 hours.

Materials, Finishes & Customization Questions

The right material and process depend on your design, product use, budget and desired appearance. We recommend practical options after reviewing your artwork.

Common materials: zinc alloy, iron, brass, copper, stainless steel, aluminum, soft PVC, rubber, acrylic, wood and mixed materials. Zinc alloy is our primary material for die-cast products. Not every material suits every product. We recommend based on your design and use case.

Zinc alloy works well for custom shapes, thicker products, 2D or 3D relief, complex outlines, functional metal gifts, challenge coins, keychains, medals, bottle openers and metal fridge magnets. It offers good design flexibility for die-cast production and takes plating and enamel well.

Iron and brass can work better for thinner stamped products, simple flat designs, badges and lapel pins. The best choice depends on shape, relief, thickness, finish and cost target. We guide you after reviewing your design.

Options include gold, silver, copper, brass, black nickel, chrome, matte gold, matte silver, matte copper, matte brass, matte black nickel, matte black, antique gold, antique silver, antique brass, antique copper and dual plating combinations. Color spray and other surface treatments are also available.

Soft enamel has recessed color areas with raised metal lines, creating a textured surface you can feel. Imitation hard enamel is polished flat for a smooth surface and a more refined appearance. Soft enamel costs less and has strong visual depth. Imitation hard enamel is chosen when buyers want a smooth, jewelry-like finish.

Printing is better for artwork with gradients, photos, small details, maps, fine text, full-color illustrations and complex sponsor logos. Depending on the product, we recommend UV printing, screen printing, pad printing or offset printing.

Yes. Personalization options include laser engraving, sequential numbering, employee names, award levels, event dates, membership numbers and QR codes where feasible. Submit personalized data in a clear spreadsheet or approved list.

Depending on the product: butterfly clutch, rubber clutch, safety pin, magnet backing, screw post, keyring, split ring, chain, lobster clasp, ribbon, ball chain and adhesive backing. We recommend attachments based on how the product will be worn, displayed or used.

Yes. An order may include variations such as different names, colors, award levels, departments, sponsor logos, event categories or destination designs. Each version should be clearly named and approved before production.

Packaging, Shipping & Repeat Order Questions

Packaging and delivery should be planned with the product’s end use in mind — bulk distribution, retail display, employee recognition or gift presentation.

Options include individual poly bag, backing card, display card, paper card, velvet pouch, acrylic capsule, gift box, paper box, foam insert, retail packaging, barcode or SKU label and bulk carton packing.

→ See packaging details

Yes. Custom packaging can include printed backing cards, brand logo boxes, custom inserts, gift sleeves, product information cards, barcodes, SKU labels, retail hanging holes and multi-product gift sets. Confirm custom packaging early because it affects artwork and lead time.

Yes. Orders can be sorted by design, color, department, award level, participant group, SKU, sponsor or event category. Provide clear packing instructions before bulk packaging begins.

Yes. We ship to over 50 countries including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia and Russia. Available shipping methods depend on destination, quantity, weight, delivery deadline and buyer preference. Methods include express courier (DHL, FedEx, UPS, TNT), air freight, sea freight, rail freight (China-Europe Railway Express) and buyer-appointed forwarder.

Shipping is quoted separately because freight depends on final carton size, gross weight, destination, shipping method, delivery speed and customs arrangement. Your quotation will clearly separate product cost and shipping cost.

Customs duties, import taxes and local clearance charges depend on the destination country and agreed shipping terms. The buyer is responsible for these costs. Your freight forwarder or customs broker can provide destination-specific guidance. We provide all export documentation: commercial invoice, packing list and certificates of origin (Form A, Form F or CO as applicable).

Yes. Provide your forwarder’s warehouse address, contact details, shipping marks and documentation requirements before shipment.

Yes. For a repeat order, provide the previous order number, artwork reference or product photo. We retrieve your stored mold, specifications, finish, accessory and packaging details before confirming the new order. No new mold fee and no new design fee — just production. Most of our buyers are repeat customers.

Minor changes such as engraved text or printed information may use the existing product structure. Changes to shape, size, relief, logo mold or functional structure usually require new artwork and possibly a new mold. Tell us what you want to change and we will confirm what is needed.

Production & Quality Control Questions

Quality is controlled through artwork confirmation, in-process production checks and final inspection. Here is how our process works.

The exact process varies by product, but a typical metal gift workflow: artwork review → mold design → mold engraving → die casting or stamping → deburring → polishing → plating → coloring or printing → laser engraving → accessory assembly → quality control → packaging → shipment preparation.

→ See the full process

Our capabilities include die casting, die stamping, etching, spin casting, PVC molding, polishing, electroplating, soft enamel, imitation hard enamel, UV printing, screen printing, pad printing, offset printing, laser engraving, epoxy coating, assembly and packaging.

Quality checks occur at several stages: metal forming inspection, deburring and polishing review, plating inspection, coloring or printing inspection, accessory assembly check, function check, pre-packing inspection and packaging and quantity confirmation.

Pre-shipment checks cover product shape, size and thickness, logo clarity, text readability, plating consistency, color filling, printing position, surface scratches, attachment strength, magnet or opener function, packaging method, quantity and version sorting. We ship only after these checks pass.

Yes. We provide inspection photos or videos showing finished products, packaging, version sorting and functional checks before shipment. You can request specific angles or inspection points. Video calls for live inspection can also be arranged.

Send clear photos, quantities and order details as soon as possible. We review the issue and confirm whether it relates to production, handling or shipping. For confirmed manufacturing defects, we remake the affected products or refund the confirmed defective portion. Custom products cannot be returned for reasons other than manufacturing defects, but we take full responsibility for production quality.

Looking for Product-Specific Answers?

The questions above cover the general ordering and manufacturing process. For product-specific options — dimensions, finishes, use cases and detailed specifications — visit the corresponding product page.

custom-metal-pins-manufacturer-BadgeArtisans

Custom Lapel Pins

Enamel types, pin styles, backings, plating and packaging

custom-police-challenge-coins-manufacturer-BadgeArtisans

Custom Challenge Coins

Coin size, thickness, 2D/3D relief, edges, finishes and packaging

custom-photo-keychain-manufacturer-BadgeArtisans

Custom Keychains

Metal, enamel, printed, PVC and functional keychain options

Custom Fridge Magnets Manufacturer BadgeArtsisans

Custom Fridge Magnets

 Metal, enamel, printed, PVC, acrylic and souvenir magnets

Custom Medals Manufacturer BadgeArtisans

Custom Medals

Category overview. For detailed medal specs: badgeartisansmedals.com

Custom Bottle Openers Manufacturer BadgeArtisans

Custom Bottle Openers

Product overview. For deeper opener options: bottleopenergifts.com

Still Have a Question About Your Custom Gift Project?

Every project is different. Send us your logo, artwork, reference image or product idea. Our team reviews the design, recommends suitable materials and production processes, and prepares a quotation based on your specifications.

For a faster response, include: product type, quantity, number of designs, logo or artwork, approximate size, material or finish preference, attachment requirement, packaging requirement, required delivery date and shipping country.

View the Ordering Process