Except for Federal Agencies and the U.S. Military, Smith & Warren sells all products through our extensive network of authorized dealers and distributors.

You can browse and design your custom Smith & Warren products with VisualBadge and request a quote. We will assign your quote request to an authorized dealer who can provide pricing and assist you with placing an order.
 


You can browse and design your custom Smith & Warren products with VisualBadge and request a quote. We will assign your quote request to an authorized dealer who can provide pricing and assist you with placing an order.
 

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BadgeStudio: Redefining Custom Badge Design with a Collaborative, End-to-End Service

BadgeStudio combines your vision with our expertise to create a badge that represents you perfectly—from initial concept to final design.

Published On: 11/14/2024
Custom metal police badge for Summerville South Carolina next to the concept drawing.

When choosing a custom badge provider, many departments are enticed by the promise of “free artwork.” But at Smith & Warren, we take a different approach with our BadgeStudio service. Rather than offering a rushed, template-based design with limited customer input, BadgeStudio focuses on delivering a fully original badge design through an end-to-end, collaborative process. Here’s why BadgeStudio stands out as the preferred choice for departments seeking a truly custom badge experience.

The Myth of “Free Artwork” vs. True Custom Design

In programs advertising free artwork, the customer often interacts with a salesperson who relays their ideas to an artist. That artist, under pressure to complete designs quickly, often works from pre-existing templates, assembling a badge that may appear custom but is, in reality, a patchwork of pre-made assets. This “piece together” approach leaves departments with a design that may look polished but lacks originality and personal connection.


By contrast, BadgeStudio doesn’t simply provide artwork; we deliver a complete design service. Each customer is introduced to a team of at least two skilled designers—one acting as the lead and the other offering support in refining ideas. This team approach encourages a collaborative spirit, resulting in a creative process that brings the customer’s vision to life in ways they might not have imagined on their own. The result is a one-of-a-kind badge that serves as the visual heart of the department’s identity.

Smith & Warren artist and designer Michael Camara sketching a badge concept.

Guiding Customers on a Creative Journey

At Smith & Warren, we believe that the best designs come from a true partnership. BadgeStudio allows our customers to participate actively in the design process, sharing their vision with our team in an interactive, consultative format. Instead of just following instructions, our designers lead customers on a creative journey that often reveals design possibilities beyond the initial concept. This process transforms a simple badge idea into an enduring symbol that reflects the department’s values and mission.

BadgeStudio design process - sketch, illustration, 3d render, badge

Ownership and Flexibility for Every Department

One of the most unique aspects of BadgeStudio is that we believe in full design ownership. Since each badge is an original work, we hand over the final vector files to the department, giving them complete freedom to use the design across multiple applications. Whether it’s for promotional materials, community outreach, or enhancing their presence, departments can proudly utilize their badge artwork in any way that supports their mission.

In summary, BadgeStudio offers a level of personalized service and creative control that surpasses typical “free artwork” programs. It’s not just about creating a badge; it’s about creating a legacy. At Smith & Warren, we are honored to craft badges that embody the spirit and dedication of each department, bringing their unique identity to life through true, original design.

Bring your vision to life with a badge that truly represents your department. Contact our team today and begin your BadgeStudio collaboration.

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