Where should your logo go on a tapered travel mug?

Look at the wall where the design will sit

A straight cylinder has the same diameter throughout the height of the design. On a tapered model the diameter changes. A mug with a narrow base may also have a transition between two parts of the wall. It therefore matters whether the design fits entirely in the upper area or crosses that transition.

A rotary attachment turns a suitable object during engraving. On a tapered surface, the distance to the laser across the height of the design also matters. Manufacturers describe different rotary attachments, and some systems allow the engraving area to be levelled separately. SDLG assesses the shape and how the exact mug model can be held in position. Trotec rotary attachments and Epilog guidance on levelling the engraving area.

Choose a design that fits on one part of the wall

• Compact brand mark. It may fit on a defined part of the wall. Provide the desired width and height and show which side the mark should be read from.
• Wide logo with text. Consider how the logo looks when the mug stands in front of you on a table. The curve can carry the ends out of direct view. Discuss whether a more compact version of the logo would fit.
• Wraparound design. A continuous pattern calls for an assessment of the circumference at different heights and the clearance available for turning the mug. Show where the ends should meet.

If the mug has a handle, mark the intended logo position relative to it on a photograph. Include any existing branding, seam and transition to a narrow base in the photograph. These details help determine whether the position is accessible.

Agree the position before ordering the batch

1. Take a front photograph and a side photograph. Give the overall height, largest diameter and the diameters at the top and bottom of the intended engraving area in millimetres. Show anything that projects from the mug.
2. Supply the brand, product number, colour and finish along with the logo or exact wording. If each mug will carry a name, include the longest one and use a single checked list for the batch.
3. Discuss a sample on the same mug model if position or contrast is uncertain. Assess it with the mug upright and from the chosen viewing side. Check orientation, size and contrast before agreeing the specification for the batch.

Explore engraving on bottles and travel mugs and read how to supply names for batch engraving. In your enquiry, say whether you already have the mugs or still need to choose a model.