Creating a custom trophy is a meticulous process that combines artistry, craftsmanship, and personalisation to celebrate achievements uniquely. It all depends on what sort of trophy you’re looking for. Perhaps a replica trophy, or a team trophy, an individual trophy, an annual trophy or a perpetual trophy.
A perpetual trophy is a trophy to use year on year, so possibly for an ongoing sponsorship. It is presented to the winners then taken back to be presented to the winners the following year. A perpetual trophy will usually be engraved with the winners’ details and date and often kept by the Competition or the Sponsors until the next year.
Inkerman London, renowned for our expertise in trophy making, offer a seamless experience for clients seeking bespoke pieces.
We have made trophies for sporting events across the world, including replicas for presentations and awards.
This guide will walk you through the essential steps to design and order a custom trophy with Inkerman London, and our skilled team are on hand to assist you on every step to ensure the perfect result.
Step 1: Define Your Requirements
Identify the Purpose and Occasion
Start by determining the purpose of the trophy. Is it for a sports event, corporate recognition, academic achievement, or a special celebration? The occasion will influence the design elements and the overall style of the trophy.
Set a Budget
Establishing a budget is crucial as it guides the choice of materials, design complexity, and the level of customization. Inkerman London offers a range of options to fit various budgets without compromising on quality.
A price guideline ie £600-£1000 or £10,000 - £12,000 or over £50,000 will give us an idea as to what we can do for our clients. Having an approximate idea of budget will help us with putting ideas forward.
Step 2: Choose the Trophy Type and Design
Select the Type of Trophy
Inkerman London provides various trophy types including cups, plaques, medals, and statues. Each type can be tailored to suit different events and preferences.
To help you create the ideal custom trophy, we suggest you look at our gallery of previous creations for inspiration. Vist our Trophy Gallery for ideas and inspiration
Design the Trophy or Replica
Collaborate with Inkerman's design team to create a concept. This might start from a simple idea or sketch and evolve into a detailed design. Consider aspects like size, shape, colour, and any specific design elements like logos or symbols, handles and why we often recommend them so they can be held up easily by the winners or ribbons can be added.
Could an antique trophy be considered this is a tick in the sustainable box; original engraving can be rubbed off and the trophy re-engraved. This works better on solid sterling silver trophies. Purchasing antique trophies in sterling silver is better value for money than making a new sterling silver trophy.
If your looking for a replica trophy, do you need an exact copy? If wanting an exact copy the costs can be high especially if the trophy needs to be in sterling silver with traditional silversmithing techniques used in the making process. In years gone by each town would have many silversmiths including spinners, chasers and engravers but there are many less silver craftsmen throughout the UK nowadays so with so few experts the costs are high. But Inkerman have spent 27 years working with some of the best silversmiths in the UK and over the years have learnt about the techniques and how trophies are made giving us authority to advise on all enquiries. Visit our Replica Gallery of past replicas we have made.
Having made some historic trophies and replica trophies including the Cheltenham Gold Cup Replica and the new FA of Wales Women’s Trophy Inkerman are recognised as one of the most trustworthy and knowledgeable Trophy Makers in the UK - making trophies at sensible prices. Click the link to our Design Service
Step 3: Choose Materials
Material Selection
Our expert in-house trophy manufacturers use a variety of high-quality materials such as metal, and wood. Metals like silver and gold are popular for their durability and prestige, while wood offers a timeless classic. If you prefer a sleek, modern aesthetic with crystal and glass, please discuss this with our design team in advance.
Consider Durability and Aesthetics
The material should reflect the significance of the award. For example, crystal trophies are elegant and suitable for corporate awards, while metal trophies are robust and ideal for sports achievements.
Step 4: Personalization and Customization
Engraving and Inscription
Decide on the text for the engraving, including the recipient's name, date, event details, and a personalized message. Inkerman offers various engraving techniques to ensure a high-quality finish.
Additional Custom Features
Incorporate unique elements such as company logos, event symbols, or custom shapes to make the trophy truly one-of-a-kind. Inkerman's expertise ensures that these elements are flawlessly integrated into the design.
Step 5: Production and Quality Check
Manufacturing Process
Once the design is finalized, the trophy goes into production. Inkerman uses advanced techniques and skilled craftsmanship to create each piece. The process includes moulding, casting, polishing, and assembling the components.
Quality Assurance
Before delivery, each trophy undergoes a rigorous quality check to ensure it meets all specifications and is free from defects. This ensures that the final product is of the highest standard.
Step 6: Delivery and Presentation
Packaging and Shipping
Proper packaging is essential to protect the trophy during transit. Inkerman offers secure packaging solutions and reliable shipping options to ensure your trophy arrives in perfect condition.
Presentation
Plan the presentation of the trophy to make it a memorable event. Whether at a formal ceremony or an informal gathering, the presentation adds significance to the award.
_____________________________________________________________________
FAQ’s
1. What is the process for ordering a custom trophy?
The process typically involves selecting a design, choosing the materials, finalizing the size, and deciding on any engraving or personalization options. Once these details are settled, a prototype may be created for approval before the final production begins.
2. How long does it take to make a custom trophy?
The timeline for making a custom trophy can vary. Generally, it takes about 2-4 weeks from the initial order to delivery. However, this can be longer if the design is complex or if there are specific customizations that require additional time
3. How much does a custom trophy cost?
Costs can vary widely based on the materials, size, and level of customization. Simple custom trophy designs are more cost-effective, while more elaborate designs with custom parts will be expensive, but of course be far more spectacular. Please contact us for more information as we will need details to give any sort of accuracy on a quote.
5. Can I see a prototype before the final production?
Depending on the design, we can either create a prototype or a digital mock-up for approval before moving to final production. This helps ensure that all design specifications meet the customer's requirements.
6. What customization options are available?
Customization options can include engraving text or logos, choosing specific colours, and incorporating unique shapes or figures. Some advanced customizations may involve 3D printing for unique parts or intricate designs
7. Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Additional costs can include engraving fees, shipping, and sometimes a design fee if you require a highly customized or intricate design. But we will clarify these costs upfront in the quote before we start.
_________________________________________________________________
“It’s been great to work alongside the team at Inkerman’s and Workers Gallery to produce our big and bold new Bute Energy Welsh Cup trophy.
By working with Inkerman’s, a women’s led trophy manufacturer, and Welsh firm, Worker Gallery, has meant that we have been able to capture the essence of the most prestigious Cup competition in the women’s game in Wales.
We love the final product and can’t wait to unveil it at this year’s showpiece final.”
The FAW’s Head of Women’s & Girls’ Football, Lowri Roberts
Get in touch…
Telephone: 01892 752211
Email: EMAIL US NOW
Click Here: 
