As decoration technology continues to move forward, you will always be looking for new ways of imprinting or inscribing your client's name or logo that will not only give you extra business, but ensure that you continue to provide for their needs.

With new inventions consistently becoming available, one form of decoration continues to be pioneered by Bedford-based Mastergrave. The company has now developed the third generation of its engraving technology that allows for the decoration of promotional accessories and on to surfaces such as metal, glass and plastic.

Following on from the existing larger models Universal and Compact, the new technology, named GEM, allows for the simple decoration of smaller items but is small enough to sit easily in workshop without requiring too much space. The GEM has been produced for the decorator and high street shop to allow them to offer a technology that would otherwise be a very high cost and take up a large area of space.

The maximum decorating area that GEM can cover is a 6" x 3" hip flask, while items such as pens, key rings, trophy plates and badges can be easily engraved. The GEM is controlled through computer software that comes with the package, this allows you to complete your design on the screen as well as choosing the process and the depth of the engrave. Director Ted Cousins said, 'It's not that complicated, once people realise what it's capable of they start learning more. Anyone who can use a PC and a mouse can use it.'

The process involves putting the blank surfaced item that you want to decorate into the centre of the decorating plate where it is held with a vice. Using the software, you can determine the size and shape of the surface and detail the text or logo that you want to engrave.

Whilst using the software you can also decide on the 'tightness' of the font and choose from a range of 20 fonts, a logo can also be imported and engraved as long as it is a line drawing to allow for the engraving to be completed. A preview screen is available for you to be able to rotate, change the size and location of the decoration on the screen before making a final decision to engrave.

The whole process is very simple and quick, and once it is complete the engraved item is removed and another added to be engraved with the same design if required, meaning that one-offs are very simple to produce. The cutter features a diamond tip, when this begins to wear down an inexpensive replacement can be ordered from Mastergrave.

Ted said, 'There is nothing that can go wrong, the only thing that needs to be changed is the cutter and that can last two years depending on how much you use it.'

If you are looking to engrave something more personalised - like a signature for example - a freehand pad is also offered that allows the user to 'sign' their name, the signature is then uploaded and engraved using the standard process.

The GEM is available at a low cost set up and it is easy to recoup the outlay cost within a few months if it used to its maximum potential, Ted said, 'There is engraving and engraving potential everywhere you look. We always ask the new customer "what do you want to do?" and if we sell a machine, we like to give them all the consumables, we like to make it easy for them.'

This new machine, that was launched at the end of 2004, is ideal for the small accessory but for larger items such as trophies and tankards, one of the larger machines - either the Compact or the Universal - would be required.

A range of marking tools are available from Mastergrave as well as a full range of consumables. The feasibility of repeat orders is extremely high, as customers are not only impressed with the finish and presentation that engraving can offer, but as metal can deteriorate over time customers will inevitably look to re-order items over and over.

A recent development by the company has been a tool to decorate the inside of rings, a concept that has become very popular over the past few years, especially since the release of the 'Lord of the Rings' films.

Mastergrave offer consumable packages, as well as offering starter packs with the initial sale of the machine. A complete and extensive range of accessories, new cutters and consumables are also offered in the company's catalogue. If you are still looking for demonstrations - which the company can offer - on how the engravers work and how to gain the maximum potential. Mastergrave also offer instructional videos and guides that give demonstrations on how to work and receive the best service.

For further information contact Mark, Mike or Richard at Mastergrave on 01234 218226, fax 01234 269899, email : sales@mastergrave.co.uk. Visit the website at www.mastergrave.co.uk.

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