Custom Spinner Medals: What Buyers Should Confirm

First define what “spinner” means

A custom spinner medal has a moving component, but buyers should specify the motion instead of relying on the word “spinner.” State whether the center should rotate freely through 360 degrees, turn over to show a second face, or move another way. Ask the supplier to mark the pivot, attachment and clearance on the proof.

A still rendering cannot prove how the assembled medal moves. The sample-room medal pictured here shows a movable center panel as a product example; verify the mechanism and movement range for the exact design you order.

Approve both faces, the 3D relief and ribbon attachment

For double-sided 3D custom medals, review the front and back of the outer frame and moving insert. Confirm dimensions, raised and recessed details, small text, color fills and plating or antique finish. When wording changes, approve a revised proof and make clear which version is approved for production.

Specify the custom ribbon too: width, length, colors, print and attachment. State whether the medal should be sewn directly onto the ribbon or attached with hardware, and whether the order should arrive assembled. See our custom medal ribbon guide for the details buyers should confirm.

Use a sample to check movement

Ask for a physical sample or a clear video showing both sides and the full movement. Check that the insert rotates or flips as specified, moves smoothly, stays attached and clears the frame. A digital proof checks visual intent; it does not demonstrate function.

For a first order or an unusual mechanism, agree what the sample includes, how revisions are handled and when approval releases the bulk-production schedule. Our guide to proofs, samples and production approval explains what each approval can verify.

Compare the full quote at 100–200 pieces

Custom medals on our site start from 100 pieces per design. For a 100–200-piece order, request separate prices for the medal, mold or tooling, sample, custom ribbon, assembly, packaging and freight. Confirm whether the quoted unit price includes the ribbon and attachment. If comparing 100 and 200 pieces, ask for both tiers using identical specifications.

Have the payment schedule written out: product deposit, mold-fee payment, remaining product balance and freight due date. A quoted deposit may include the full tooling fee in addition to a product deposit, so do not assume it is simply half of the total order value. Read the mold-fee and reorder guide when comparing first-order and repeat-order costs.

When comparing FedEx and DHL, use the same packed weight, carton dimensions, destination and service speed. Under DAP, the buyer generally handles import clearance and duties; exact local charges are determined during customs clearance. Ask the supplier to name the delivery term and the courier’s payment process in writing. See the ICC Incoterms® 2020 DAP/DDP checklist.

Plan from the required in-hand date

Ask the supplier to separate artwork approval, tooling, sample review, bulk production, inspection and express transit. Confirm what starts the production clock and whether customs clearance is included in the delivery estimate. Express transit is only one milestone; it is not a guarantee that a custom order will arrive by an event date.

For a broader schedule, see our guide to custom medal production and delivery timing. Organizers on Reddit have discussed sourcing hundreds of custom medals, custom ribbons and tight event budgets—a reminder to share the quantity, budget and deadline before comparing offers.