Have you ever wondered what size plaque will actually look good on your wall?
Trust me, after years of providing plaques and shields to sports clubs and companies across Melbourne, I've realised there's more to choosing a plaque than just picking the first size you see. Selecting the right size can really make or break the impact of your award.
Does Plaque Size Really Matter?
The quick answer is yes, size absolutely matters. A plaque that's too big overwhelms the recipient, while one that's too small may seem insignificant. From experience, a good balance enhances the visual appeal and clearly communicates the message. So, what's considered the ideal size for a plaque?
Understanding Standard Sizes
Generally, plaques range from small sizes like 5"x7" (approximately 13cm x 18cm) up to larger, more noticeable 12"x15" (30cm x 38cm) plaques. Most of the sports awards I've crafted fall around the middle ground, usually about 8"x10" (20cm x 25cm). Why this size? It's the sweet spot—large enough to be impressive, small enough not to dominate your wall.
This guide on trophy sizing and materials provides an excellent breakdown if you're looking for specifics on sizing and materials. It's worth a quick read.
The Secret to Making Your Plaque Stand Out
I recently experimented with some 3D-printed plaques to explore how size and design influence readability and overall attractiveness. One issue I faced was the font size. Initially, smaller fonts seemed sleek, but in reality, they were tough to read clearly. It taught me something valuable—visibility matters more than style, especially in award plaques.
After some adjustments, like choosing bolder fonts and simpler designs, the clarity improved significantly. Surprisingly, another critical factor was the surface I printed on. Smooth finishes can be shiny, causing glare and reducing readability. Instead, satin or matte finishes worked wonders. The balance between finish and size greatly affects how professional and attractive your plaque looks.
If you're into creating your own awards or plaques, learning about inscriptions can help immensely. This engraving guide offers solid tips on getting your text clear and professional.
Participation Awards and Choosing the Right Size
When handing out sports trophies, especially participation awards, size conveys importance. Participation trophies shouldn't overshadow championship trophies, but they also shouldn't appear trivial. Around 6"x8" (15cm x 20cm) typically hits the mark perfectly.
I wrote about this previously, discussing the value of participation awards in sports. The right size not only honours effort but encourages continued participation. After all, recognition is a powerful motivator.
Tips for Customising Your Plaque
Here's a quick list I've found helpful when selecting or designing plaques:
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Keep text concise. Too much text can clutter your plaque.
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Avoid overly decorative fonts. Clarity beats style every single time.
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Consider viewing distance. If the plaque is meant to be viewed from afar, go larger with your font and plaque size.
Understanding the role of plaques in recognition ceremonies can help you plan better and choose effectively. Each plaque you award should genuinely resonate with the recipient.
Materials and Their Impact on Size
Materials also play a crucial role. Glass or acrylic plaques, for instance, look stunning but can be heavier, which sometimes limits their practical size. Wooden plaques provide flexibility—easy to hang and often lighter, meaning you can comfortably go bigger without worrying about practicality.
Looking through our custom-made section could inspire your next choice, letting you see firsthand how different materials and sizes interact.
Choosing the Right Size for Your Event
Corporate events tend to go larger because bigger often implies greater importance or prestige. Sporting events typically vary, though consistency across awards in the same category is crucial. It's awkward awarding a tiny plaque to a player while their teammate receives something twice the size. Matching sizes maintain fairness and visual appeal.
If you're unsure what works best, I'm always here to help guide your decision. Feel free to get in touch with questions.
Final Thoughts on Plaque Sizes
Choosing the right plaque size isn't difficult if you keep a few key factors in mind—visibility, material, purpose, and audience. With these tips, you're sure to pick a plaque that recipients proudly display.
Ready to start choosing? Show Product carousel here to explore plaque options that match your needs.