Custom filament projects are easiest to control when colour, branding and packaging are defined as separate specifications. A new colour is not the same project as a new material or a new spool format.
Separate the workstreams
- Colour: target, lighting and tolerance.
- Branding: label, spool and carton.
- Packaging: unit, protection and barcode.
- Material: grade, diameter and performance.
Freeze samples
Approve a physical colour chip, printed label and packed sample before mass production. Digital files alone are not enough for colour approval.
Control change
- Version every artwork file.
- Define who approves changes.
- Revalidate when supplier or substrate changes.
| Choice | Specification | Approval |
|---|---|---|
| Colour | Master and range | Physical chip |
| Branding | Logo and label | Printed sample |
| Packaging | Box and protection | Packed unit |
| Material | Grade and tolerance | TDS and sample |
Common engineering mistakes
- Approving colour from a screen.
- Combining all changes in one trial.
- Using an unbranded packaging sample.
- Not versioning artwork.
- Changing material without reapproval.
Buyer checklist
- Is the project type defined?
- Is colour approval physical?
- Are artwork files versioned?
- Is packaging tested?
- Is the material specification locked?
Share colour, branding and packaging requirements through our OEM inquiry form.