Blog | Product Branding | LaFrance

The Triad of Product Design: Color, Material & Finish

Written by LaFrance | Apr 17, 2025 2:49:00 PM

When it comes to product design, first impressions are not just visual - they are emotional. At LaFrance, we believe that color, material, and finish (CMF) form the core of impactful on-product branding. These three elements work in harmony to elevate your brand, differentiate your product, and create lasting connections with your customers. 

Our team of industry specialists keeps a constant pulse on market trends, working side-by-side with you from concept to final production. We dig deep into your marketplace, growth goals, and competition to design on-product branding that stands out - down to the finest detail. 

COLOR 
Color is more than a visual element; it is a strategic tool. The right color draws attention, evokes emotion, and influences purchasing behavior. Whether it is bold, energetic red to spark urgency or cool, calming blue to inspire trust, color creates an immediate emotional response. 

Our precision color development and brand-specific color matching supports brand consistency at every touchpoint. Utilize our plating and PVD for true metallic finishes in an array of silvers, gun metals, and golds. Looking for a rich look, take advantage of our anodized offering for aluminum. We will help you choose a palette that reflects your brand identity and resonates with your target audience. 

MATERIAL 
Material choice matters. It sends a message of quality and desired brand perception. Is it rugged and durable? Sleek and modern? Sophisticated and premium? 

Choosing the right material can drastically shift how a product is experienced. Premium materials not only improve the tactile impression but also elevate perceived value, building customer trust and brand loyalty over time. The weight of zinc or the glass-like lens effect of plastic speaks volumes to a consumer. Stickers may fade, but an artfully crafted three-dimensional badge makes a statement that lasts. 

FINISH 
Finish is where form meets feel. It is the final detail that creates dimension, depth, and sensory impact. 

From crisp electroformed textures like sandblast or diamond mill to rugged zinc textures like asphalt or sleek brushing on stainless steel - finish creates tactile distinction. Want something soft and understated? Satin chrome delivers a delicate, refined look. For a bold and moody aesthetic, dark finishes offer depth and drama. Consider incorporating the eye-catching characteristics of polished or semi-gloss finishes for a sleek look to any product design. Finish is not just seen, it is felt. It turns everyday products into brand experiences. 

At LaFrance, CMF is not just a process, it is a philosophy. We understand that the tiny details are not small at all - they are what drives consumer engagement, differentiates your product on the shelf, and tells your brand story without saying a word. Ready to bring your vision to life? Complete the form below to connect with our team and explore how color, material, and finish can define your next product.