Brass is an excellent choice for signage thanks to its durability, visual appeal and versatility. As an alloy of copper and zinc, brass offers strong resistance to corrosion, especially in indoor or low-exposure environments. This makes it particularly suitable for long-lasting applications such as shop signs, plaques, nameplates and directional signage. When cared for properly, brass signs can retain their integrity and appearance for many years.

From a design perspective, brass brings a level of warmth and richness that other metals like aluminium or stainless steel may lack. Its natural golden hue adds a sense of quality and tradition that makes it ideal for hospitality, professional, and high-end retail settings. Brass also develops a unique patina over time, adding depth and character, or it can be polished to a brilliant mirror finish for a more formal or decorative look.

Brass is easy to machine, engrave, and cut using modern techniques like laser cutting or CNC milling. This allows for precision detailing, whether you’re producing minimalist letterforms or intricate brand elements. It can also be paired with various surface treatments, such as satin, antique or aged finishes, to suit different interior styles. Overall, brass is a reliable, stylish and adaptable signage material.

Antique brass patina is created by accelerating the natural ageing process of the metal using chemical treatments. This produces a darker, more characterful finish with variations in tone and texture that evoke the appearance of aged, time-worn brass. The surface may feature subtle mottling, shading or brushed effects that give each piece a handcrafted, individual quality.

This style of patina is ideal for interior signage where a vintage, traditional or artisan aesthetic is desired. Antique brass signs are commonly chosen for boutique hotels, independent cafés, cocktail bars, and heritage or period-style buildings. The deeper tones of antique brass complement rich interior materials such as wood, leather and stone, creating a sense of depth and authenticity.

The finish also works well in contemporary interiors, where it provides contrast against neutral palettes or modern fixtures. Whether used for logos, room signs or plaques, antique brass adds warmth, character and a feeling of permanence to any space.

Satin brass patina is created by brushing the surface of the metal to produce a soft, uniform sheen that diffuses light rather than reflecting it. Unlike polished brass, which is highly reflective, satin brass has a more subtle finish that retains the natural warmth and elegance of the metal without being overly glossy or bright. This makes it an ideal choice for interiors that favour a clean, modern aesthetic with a touch of softness.

The finish pairs well with other brushed or matte materials such as stainless steel, blackened steel, or natural wood. Satin brass signs are commonly found in contemporary retail spaces, corporate offices, galleries, and other design-led environments where clarity and sophistication are key.

In addition to its visual appeal, satin brass is a practical option for signage. The brushed surface helps reduce the appearance of fingerprints, smudges, and general wear, making it a durable and low-maintenance solution for high-traffic areas.

Antique brass signage remains one of our most requested finishes, prized for its ability to introduce heritage, warmth, and character into a space. Whether for commercial interiors, period properties, hospitality venues or commemorative displays, these signs deliver a classic appearance that feels both established and refined. The subtle variations in tone and texture give each piece a unique patina that can’t be replicated by standard finishes.

We utilise CZ120 and CZ108 for larger format signs (available in larger sheet sizes). The thickness of the brass we utilise in the construction of our signage is typically 1.5mm, but we can produce custom brass signs utilising 2mm, 3mm and 5mm thick sheet. Our high-quality brass sheet metal enables crisp, detailed results while offering the strength needed for long-lasting signage.

Once the brass is cut to size, we engrave it to your exact specifications, whether that involves text, logos, or more intricate artwork. The engraved areas are typically infilled with a dark brass patina to create definition and visual contrast. The surface is then treated using a controlled chemical ageing process, giving the entire sign an authentic antique brass effect, complete with tonal depth and surface variation that reflect years of natural wear.

To get started, simply send us your design or concept. While DXF files are ideal for accuracy and compatibility, our in-house CAD specialists can work from a wide range of file types, including PDFs, JPGs, and vector formats, to help realise your vision with precision.

We manufacture custom brass name plates for both professional and personal use, tailored to suit a wide variety of applications, including office doors, reception desks, lockers, and residential properties. Whether you’re after a traditional engraved name plate for a business setting or a more decorative piece for the home, each one is made to order using solid CZ120 brass for a clean, long-lasting finish.

Name plates are available in various thicknesses and finishes, from polished or brushed brass to antique patinas. Designs are engraved to your specification, with options to leave the lettering unfilled or enhance it with a dark patina for improved visibility.

Each name plate is precision-cut and finished with care, with optional mounting holes or adhesive backs to suit your installation method. Our CAD team can assist in refining layouts, and we accept a wide range of file formats to help streamline the design process.

For the Hard Day’s Night pub restaurant in Newcastle-under-Lyme – a venue themed around The Beatles – Metal Sheets Ltd produced a custom brass name plate that captures the nostalgic atmosphere of the space. The plaque was engraved with precision and completed with an aged brass patina, offering a warm, vintage look that complements the interior design.

Attention to detail is evident in every stage of production, from the depth and clarity of the engraved lettering to the carefully applied antique finish. The result is a sign that combines aesthetic quality with long-term durability.

Also shown is a bespoke brass plaque created for Taylors Bar, featuring an intricate depiction of the Welsh Dragon and dual-colour filled text for added contrast. To preserve the engraving and enhance weather resistance, the plaque is protected with multiple coats of clear lacquer.