Custom Crafts Blog

When shopping for commemorative jewelry or researching military honors, you’ve probably encountered both terms: medal and medallion. While they might seem interchangeable at first glance, these two items have distinct characteristics, purposes, and histories that set them apart. What Is a Medal? A medal is an official award or honor given to recognize achievement, service, or merit. Medals typically feature a distinctive design stamped or cast onto a metal disc, attached to a ribbon or

When organizations need to recognize achievement, few symbols carry the weight and prestige of medals and medallions. These timeless awards bridge centuries of tradition with modern recognition needs, offering a tangible representation of accomplishment that recipients treasure for years. Understanding the Difference Between Medals and Medallions While often used interchangeably, medals and medallions serve distinct purposes in the awards landscape. Medals typically feature a ribbon or suspension system, designed to be worn or displayed prominently.

When organizations need affordable, durable recognition pieces, custom plastic medallions offer an excellent solution. These versatile awards work well for everything from sports tournaments to corporate events, providing a professional appearance without the cost of metal alternatives. What Are Custom Plastic Medallions? Custom plastic medallions are commemorative pieces made from molded or printed plastic materials. Unlike traditional metal medals, they’re lightweight, cost-effective, and can be produced in virtually any color or design. Most feature a

When I first started collecting military memorabilia, I made an embarrassing mistake at an estate sale. I confidently purchased what I thought was a rare military medal, only to discover later that it was actually a decorative medallion from a local commemorative event. That moment taught me an important lesson: while these two objects may look similar at first glance, they serve very different purposes and carry distinct meanings. What Defines a Medal? A medal

When organizing competitions, corporate events, or equestrian shows, the right recognition can make all the difference. Custom award ribbons serve as tangible symbols of achievement that participants cherish long after the event ends. Whether you’re planning a science fair, horse show, or company recognition ceremony, understanding your options for personalized ribbons helps you create memorable moments. Why Custom Ribbons Matter for Your Event Award ribbons do more than acknowledge winners—they create lasting memories. I learned

When organizing any event that celebrates achievement—whether it’s a school science fair, corporate recognition ceremony, equestrian competition, or community race—the right award ribbons can transform a simple acknowledgment into a meaningful moment. These colorful symbols of accomplishment have been recognizing winners and participants for generations, and today’s options offer more customization and affordability than ever before. Understanding Award Ribbons and Their Impact Award ribbons serve as tangible reminders of achievement, effort, and participation. Unlike certificates

When you receive a military medal, academic honor, or commemorative award, the colorful fabric strip attached to it serves far more than a decorative purpose. The ribbon that accompanies a medal carries its own story, tradition, and meaning that deserves proper understanding and respect. Understanding Medal Ribbons and Their Significance A medal ribbon is the fabric component that allows a medal to be worn or displayed. These ribbons come in specific colors and patterns that

Military medals and ribbons represent more than decorative pieces of fabric and metal—they tell the story of service, sacrifice, and achievement. Whether you’re a service member learning to wear your awards correctly, a veteran organizing your collection, or a family member preserving a loved one’s legacy, understanding these honors is essential. What Are Military Medals and Ribbons? A medal typically consists of a suspended piece of metal attached to a colored ribbon, awarded for specific

When you receive a medal for athletic achievement, military service, academic excellence, or any other accomplishment, the ribbon attached to it plays a crucial role in how you wear and display your award. These colorful fabric straps aren’t just functional—they carry symbolic meaning and transform medals into wearable honors that tell your story. Understanding Medal Ribbon Basics Medal ribbons serve as the connecting element between an award and the person wearing it. These fabric strips

When I first encountered participation ribbons as a parent at my daughter’s elementary school track meet, I watched a fascinating scene unfold. Some children clutched their ribbons proudly, while others seemed indifferent. That moment sparked my curiosity about these colorful tokens and their role in childhood development and competitive culture. What Are Participation Ribbons? Participation ribbons are awards given to all participants in an event, regardless of their performance or placement. Unlike traditional first, second,

When it comes to recognizing achievement, few things carry the same emotional weight as a physical award. Whether you’re organizing a school sports day, a corporate recognition event, or a community competition, understanding the world of awards can help you make choices that truly resonate with recipients. Understanding Award Recognition Awards serve a purpose beyond mere decoration. They acknowledge effort, celebrate milestones, and create lasting memories. The two most popular forms of recognition—ribbons and trophies—each

When organizing an event, competition, or ceremony, few things capture the joy of recognition quite like presenting a beautifully crafted award ribbon to a deserving winner. Whether you’re planning a school science fair, a county agricultural show, or a corporate recognition program, understanding the world of award ribbons can help you create memorable moments that participants will treasure for years to come. Understanding Award Ribbons and Their Significance Award ribbons serve as tangible symbols of