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Exploring Manufacturing Techniques in Custom Awards: 3D Printing vs. CNC Milling

Custom Awards in the Digital Age

In custom awards, we explore the intersection of innovation and sustainability through two advanced manufacturing methods: 3D printing and CNC milling. Coined by our designer, Ryan as the “yin and yang” of our many design procedures, highlighting their unique roles in bringing our clients’ visions to life. Let’s look at these technologies and their roles in shaping our bespoke creations

3D printing and CNC milling are the ‘yin and yang’ of our many design procedures.
— Ryan Rivas

3D Printing: Embracing the Future

At the heart of 3D printing lies a transformative process that brings digital designs to life, layer by layer, creating three-dimensional objects with unparalleled precision. Embracing additive manufacturing, we utilize this technique to craft intricate custom awards, enabling us to produce complex shapes with minimal material usage.


Before 3D printing, traditionally hand sculpting was the norm. Upon entering the digital age, we early adopted 3D printing technology recognizing its potential to revolutionize our craft. This shift has not only enhanced speed and fidelity but has also resulted in significant reductions in cost, waste, turnaround time, and revisions. This has streamlined production and allowed us to translate our clients’ visions into reality.

Upon entering the digital age, we early adopted 3D printing technology recognizing its potential to revolutionize our craft.
— Ryan Rivas

CNC Milling: Crafting with Precision

CNC Milling, a subtractive manufacturing process, stands as another cornerstone of our manufacturing practices. Typically, used for industrial purposes it’s not a common practice but we’ve retrofitted a way to create our concepts. Through computerized controls, a block of material is meticulously shaped into a finished product, offering a high-quality, precise finish for custom awards.

Although CNC milling predominantly caters to metal fabrication in custom awards, its significance transcends mere craftsmanship. With sustainability at the forefront, mills source recyclable materials from surplus from other mills, championing environmental responsibility which maintains our commitment to excellence. 

Harnessing 3D Printing and CNC Milling for Bespoke Award Designs

In essence, the additive (3D printing) and subtractive (CNC milling) complement each other in respecting manufacturing processes in the custom award industry. While both are computerized and share similarities, utilizing them wisely is beneficial in elevating each client’s unique brand while championing sustainability. By harnessing the power of these advanced technologies, we can bring even the most intricate custom awards designs to life with precision and efficiency. Our dedication to innovation drives us to explore new methods and materials, ensuring we remain at the forefront of the custom award industry.