At PinsFun, one of the first questions we hear is: what medal size should we choose? A 2-inch medal and a 4-inch medal can look very different, even with the same artwork. For many school, club, and standard race medals, 2.5 to 3 inches (64 to 76 mm) is a practical starting point, but the final size should follow the artwork, target weight, and event. This guide explains the common options and how to choose the right one.
1. What Does Medal Size Mean?
Medal size refers to the size of the medal itself. For a round medal, this means its diameter. A 2-inch medal measures 2 inches across. For square, rectangular, or irregular medals, the size is based on the longest side. The ribbon is not included in this measurement.
Size affects how much space the design has. Small logos and text need a larger medal if they must remain clear. A larger medal also weighs more and usually costs more, so the size should fit both the artwork and the event.
Thickness is confirmed separately from size. Our common thicknesses for custom medals are 3.0 mm, 3.5 mm, and 4.0 mm. A large medal with a very thin body can feel light and look less balanced, while a thicker medal gives it more weight. We usually recommend the thickness after reviewing the medal diameter, artwork, cutouts, and target weight.
2. Common Custom Medal Sizes
Our custom medals are commonly made in 1.5, 1.75, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5, and 5 inches. The best choice depends on how much detail the design needs and how the medal will be used.
| Medal Size | Approx. Millimeters | Best For | What It Can Hold |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.5 inches | 38 mm | Small, lightweight recognition medals | One simple logo or short symbol |
| 1.75 inches | 44 mm | Compact school and participation awards | A simple logo and short event name |
| 2 inches | 51 mm | School activities, youth events, and simple participation awards | A simple logo, short event name, and basic artwork |
| 2.5 inches | 64 mm | Standard races, club events, and school competitions | An event name, date, simple graphic, and a little more detail |
| 3 inches | 76 mm | Running events, tournaments, and corporate awards | More text, color areas, and a detailed logo |
| 3.5 inches | 89 mm | Larger races, anniversary events, and higher-level awards | A stronger overall look with more space for the design |
| 4 inches | 102 mm | Championship events and large or layered artwork | Large mascots, several design elements, and more complex shapes |
| 4.5 inches | 114 mm | Premium presentation medals | A large center design, wide border, or detailed outline |
| 5 inches | 127 mm | Major championship awards and commemorative display pieces | A bold oversized design that makes a strong visual impact |
3. Choose the Right Medal Size for Your Event
The medal should fit the level of the event. A small participation medal and a championship award should not look the same, even if they use a similar logo.
Youth Events, School Awards, and Fun Runs
For a simple youth event, school award, or fun run, 2 to 2.5 inches is usually enough. Choose 2.5 inches if the design includes an event name, date, or more than one small logo.
Club Events, Standard Races, and Corporate Recognition
For club events, regular races, and corporate recognition programs, 2.5 to 3 inches is a safer choice. This size gives enough room for the artwork while remaining comfortable to wear.
Championships, Half Marathons, and Marathons
For championship events, half marathons, marathons, or major anniversaries, 3.5 to 4 inches gives the medal a stronger presence. Choose this range when the design has a large mascot, layered elements, or details that need to stand out.
4. Check Whether Your Artwork Fits the Size
A medal can only carry as much detail as its size allows. The logo, text, and shape need to remain clear after production.
The easiest way to check the artwork is to print it at a 1:1 scale. This is a useful first check, but it does not replace a production review. Before production, PinsFun checks the smallest text, metal lines, enamel areas, cutouts, and relief at the final medal size. If the details are too small to print clearly, they will also be too small on the actual product.
Logos, Text, and Fine Details Need Enough Space
A simple logo can work on a 1.5-inch, 1.75-inch, or 2-inch medal. If the design also includes an event name, date, sponsor logos, or small lettering, 2.5 or 3 inches is usually a better choice. Do not reduce everything to fit a small medal, because thin lines and tiny text may not be clear on the finished piece. For our soft enamel medal production, we normally keep the smallest color area at least 2 mm wide.
Printing can reproduce smaller color details than soft enamel, but fine lines and small text still need an artwork review.
Irregular Shapes and Cutouts May Need a Larger Size
An irregular outline can make the usable design area smaller than it looks in the artwork. Cutouts, narrow parts, and deep curves also take up space. If the medal uses these features, a larger size may be needed to keep the logo and text readable.
5. Conclusion
Choose the medal size after reviewing the artwork and the event, not before. A simple design can use a smaller medal, while detailed text, cutouts, and larger graphics need more space. Print the artwork at a 1:1 scale before approval, then confirm the smallest text and production details with the factory.
Medal size also has a direct effect on budget. A larger medal costs more to make and weighs more. Express and air freight are usually charged by weight, so a larger medal can also increase shipping costs. If your budget is limited, consider a smaller medal. If the budget is flexible, choose the size that gives your design enough room.
6. Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Request a Non-Standard Medal Size?
Yes. Custom medal sizes are available, so send your target size and artwork for review.
Can I Customize the Medal Shape?
Yes. You can choose a circle, shield, or a custom shape that suits your design.
Can I Get a Sample Medal Before Mass Production?
Yes. A sample can be made before mass production, but it requires a sample fee and extra production time.
How Is Custom Medal Pricing Calculated?
The price depends on the medal size, thickness, design complexity, plating or coloring process, and order quantity.
What Is the Most Common Custom Medal Size?
For many school, club, and standard race medals, 2.5 to 3 inches (64 to 76 mm) is a practical starting range. The final size should still follow the artwork, target weight, and event level.
