Fundraising with Melamaster - Melamine UK

Why fundraising projects with Melamaster benefit everyone involved

Fundraising projects are just as much educational as they are profitable and successful. We appreciate that running a school can be expensive and money is needed for various purposes like throughout education. However, there are far more advantages than just bringing in monetary value.

At Melamaster, we combine the process of fundraising and developing valuable life lessons together. School fundraisers aim to instil valuable lessons into the minds of the student body; when you want something, you need to work hard for it. This lesson is carried throughout the education system and carries the same message into the real world. So let's look into why educational fundraisers play such an important role in schools today and how we can help you.

Fundraising projects with Melamaster - Child holding up a paint brush and palette

How students, parents and schools benefit from fundraising projects.

They gain confidence

Students, regardless of their age or gender are in able to learn. They can gain many leadership skills and confidence through learning and fundraising projects. Being able to manage a project from start to finish and relate it back to a physical item that they have designed helps children to think through processes and be able to vocalise their steps when talking about it – a valuable life skill.

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They learn true teamwork

Teamwork is essential in the classroom and in the real world and fundraising projects allow require students to do just that. They work with each other, their parents and their teachers to achieve their overall goal. Fundraising at schools allows for the sharing of ideas and helps them learn to compromise.

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Giving a sense of value and understanding opportunities

When you fundraise, students will be able to see the process and more importantly understand why they are participating in this. Students will then understand the importance of communities and how meeting goals can be vital for success. It allows them to get a sense of belonging in a wider team. These skills are important now more than ever so if Melamaster can help with fundraising projects, we're all for it.

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How does it work?

We have a saying … If we can print it, we can plate it. Picture plates are a great, visual way to engage students and really encompass how fun and exciting fundraising projects are. So, how does it work?

Each child is given their own template so they can get creative and let loose. This design can be anything from school logos to bespoke artistic creations from those little artists. They can be tailored to school events, seasonal dates like Christmas or Easter … the possibilities are quite limitless.

If you are looking for a way to help your children and their school, get in touch today for more information and inspiration.


What is the difference between ceramic and melamine tableware?

When it comes to choosing dinnerware, ceramic is often the go-to choice simply because many people don't realise the range of benefits that come with melamine tableware. Investing in melamine tableware can help you save money and bring a whole new lease of life to your table settings, especially when you go bespoke with Melamaster. You might feel apprehensive about straying away from your ceramic kitchenware buying habits and venturing into the world of melamine tableware, not knowing exactly what it is. To help you broaden your horizons and try something new, we've put together a few key differences between ceramic and melamine tableware to help you decide which one is perfect for you.

Icon of a grey dishwasher filled with plates. Used for a melamine tableware blog by Melamaster.

What's more practical, ceramic or melamine tableware?

When purchasing new tableware, it's important to think about the usability of the product so you can buy a more practical option for you. Whether it's ceramic or melamine tableware you go for, both are extremely practical choices when it comes to cleaning. Both options are dishwasher safe, something that many people don't know is that melamine can withstand high heats making washing up much easier for you. However, as melamine contains heat-resistant properties, this means that the dinnerware is likely to dry much quicker than ceramic products after it has been washed. With heat resistance and cold insulation, melamine is also the ideal choice for keeping cold foods colder for longer and at Melamaster, we have the perfect products for creating the coolest buffets from sandwich trays to melamine plates and melamine kitchen boards, you can keep your food fresh and tasty with melamine tableware.

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How does it look?

Appearance can be the main deciding factor for many when choosing between ceramic or melamine tableware, and when comparing the two there is only a slight difference in appearance. Some people go for ceramic due to it's classic and often expensive look, however development in melamine tableware production means that the products look just as good as ceramic, providing perfect china and ceramic-like imitation. In comparison to ceramic dinnerware, melamine is much more cost-efficient, meaning you can get more for your money, without compromising on appearance. Off the shelf options for ceramic dinnerware can be limited but when you choose Melamaster, you can create your very own bespoke melamine products. Our team can help you from design to purchase and will send out a sample of your product to make sure you are happy with it. Choosing melamine tableware means you can put a stamp on your dinnerware with the ultimate personalisation to wow your guests.

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Durability: ceramic vs melamine tableware

When you invest in new tableware, you want to know it's going to last so you're not wasting money on products that quickly need replacing. Ceramic dishes are not known for their strength and are often prone to chipping. Melamine tableware is designed with shatter-resistant properties and strengthened resin, making it extremely durable and scratch-resistant. This is ideal for restaurant owners who find that they are going through dishes quickly and losing money replacing them, those with children or simply anyone prone to dropping things!

Now that you know the benefits of melamine tableware compared to ceramics, what are you waiting for? Contact Melamaster today for your bespoke melamine consultation.


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Promote your business with bespoke melamine coasters

When it comes to promoting your business, it can be hard to think of marketing and promotional materials that will reach a wide variety of people in your target audience. Coasters are something that can be used in everyday life without a second thought, that's why they're great for promoting your business, products, and services. At Melamaster, we can help you create bespoke melamine coasters that will help grab the attention of future customers and help your business and brand to thrive.

 

 

Why melamine coasters are great for marketing

Melamine coasters are the ideal, everyday product that is useful for protecting surfaces from drink spillages and marks. Coasters can be found in a range of locations such as your local pub, cafe or hair salon. Because of this, coaster promotion can reach a wide range of people and the relaxed environments in which they're often found mean people are more open to marketing. Potential customers are likely to check out an interesting coaster while they are waiting for service. If your coaster is eye-catching, then you'll be sure to get their attention. If you want to promote your business, melamine coasters are a great way to get your name, work, and services out there.

 

 

Melamine coaster promotional ideas

Promotional merchandise is great for business, but how do you get your branded products out there? There are many ways you can get your business some attention when you choose melamine coasters with Melamaster.

Promotional giveaways: Giveaways are a great way to get your products out there, especially at events or exhibitions. Everyone loves free stuff and a handy coaster could be just what they need. You could even create a giveaway package with our range of Melamaster products. Pairing a coaster with a melamine mug or even a melamine teabag tidy can make the perfect promotional giveaway set.

In-store marketing: If your business has a retail base or office, the first thing you need to do is make sure you're representing your brand. Melamine coasters are ideal for protecting your office surfaces and if you're customer-facing, it's another way to make your brand more memorable.

Purchase gift: When your business is making sales, a great way to show the customer that you're grateful is with a gift. Offering free melamine coasters with purchases is a great way to encourage sales and get more products promoting your work out there. This is ideal for those working in the art and design industry, giving you a  simple yet unique way to showcase your work and get it into the hands of potential customers.

 

 

Go bespoke with Melamaster

Your design and business promotion can be brought to life when you choose bespoke melamine coasters with Melamaster. Not sure what to put on your coaster? If you want to promote your business offering then your business name, logo, location and contact details should be included so that any potential customers have all the information they need to reach you. If you're looking for artistic design, we specialize in working with a range of unique artists and ensure that we print work to the highest quality. We also offer design support, ideal if you want to promote your business with melamine coasters but don't have the design capabilities to do so. At Melamaster, we pride ourselves on providing a completely bespoke service when it comes to melamine products. We work with you to make sure your design vision is executed to a high standard, with 95% of our customers approving their melamine samples the first time. If you want to promote your business with bespoke melamine coasters, contact us today.


Pink and red colour theme melmamine tableware dinner setting. Pink plate with red love hearts. Bold red title text for feature image.

Give the gift of melamine tableware this valentine's day

It's that time of year again – valentine's day, the chance to show that special someone how you feel. Buying gifts for your significant other on valentine's day can be tricky, with flowers, chocolates and teddies saturating the shops, it's hard to find a gift that's truly special and unique. If you're sick of the same old gifts and want to get something different that will last, then melamine tableware could be just what you need. At Melamaster, we offer a range of bespoke melamine tableware so the world is your oyster when it comes to creating a truly unique personalised gift.

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Melamine tableware – the perfect personalised gift

Personalised gifts are perfect for showing someone you care. They show someone that you've put in the effort to create something unique especially for them. When you give a personalised gift, each time it is used or looked at it will serve as a reminder of a special time, memory or relationship. Melamine tableware is the perfect unique gift for anyone that loves homeware or those that are avid chefs and need just the right tools to display their kitchen creations. At Melamaster, we offer a range of melamine tableware products that are completely customisable. From table mats to coasters and plates to teabag tidies, there's bound to be something perfect for that special someone in your life. The possibilities are endless, you could use a photo from a special time or place to personalise your melamine or if you're feeling artistic, create your very own design. At Melamaster, we are here to help, that's why we offer studio design support, ideal if you're not the most artistic – we can help bring your ideas to life.

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Go the extra mile for your valentine's day dinner

If you're thinking of cooking up a storm in the kitchen for a special valentine's meal, what better way to give it that extra something special than with bespoke melamine tableware. Decorations are a great way to show you've gone the extra mile for your valentine's day dinner. Candles and rose petals are a classic go-to for many, but personalised melamine tableware will help give it that finishing touch. Melamaster products are available in a range of colours and designs, so whether it's the classic red or pink colour scheme you're looking for or a special design, we've got the products for you. We know that valentine's day isn't just for couples – hosting a dinner party for your closest pals this valentine's day? What better way to do it than a themed dinner party with the perfect melamine tableware to match. One of the great things about melamine tableware is that it is built to last. Designed with hard-wearing properties and dishwasher-safe, these products are built to last so you'll be able to use them again and again and make every valentine's day a special one.

If you're looking for the perfect personalised gift, contact us today and let us find the melamine product that's right for you.


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Get cooking with melamine kitchen boards

The start of a new year is the perfect time to update your homeware, maybe you've set yourself a resolution to eat healthily or cook more. If so, then some brand new melamine kitchen boards are just what you need. Traditional kitchen boards can become tired and worn over time. Investing in some hard-wearing melamine kitchen boards can help freshen up your kitchen and take your culinary creations to the next level. Melamine kitchen boards are practical, easy to care for AND they look great! What's not to love? With Melamaster, you can even create your very own personalised bespoke kitchen boards, the perfect unique finishing touch for your kitchen.

 

 

Melamine kitchen boards – helping you get organised

When it comes to cooking, organisation is key to get your head around a recipe, create the ideal meal preparation environment and creating a dish that everyone can enjoy. Organisation in your kitchen is also essential for hygiene. No matter how much experience you have in cooking, every kitchen needs multiple kitchen boards for each kind of food prep. Separate kitchen boards are essential to prevent the spread of bacteria and cross-contamination in your kitchen. So, what foods need to be prepared separately? There are six food groups you can choose to prepare separately: raw fish, raw meat, cooked meat, vegetables, fruit and salad and finally, dairy and bakery products. You may not need a kitchen board for every group, but we recommend having a minimum of two to separate raw and cooked items. Organising your food prep products is easy when you choose melamine kitchen boards from Melamaster. Our melamine boards are available in a range of designs and colours, making it simple to colour code and differentiate between each of your kitchen boards for each food group. This will help you prevent any cross-contamination and is also ideal for preparing food for anyone that has any food allergies, such as a separate kitchen board for someone with a gluten allergy.

 

 

Bespoke products for every kitchen

If you're looking for kitchen boards with that added personal touch, then why not create your very own bespoke designs. There are no limits when it comes to bespoke melamine products with Melmaster. Why not create colour coded and named boards to help differentiate each board? You could even create your own design using a photograph or image to personalise your boards such as a picture of your favourite cake to personalise your baking prep board. If you're struggling to think of how you want your melamine kitchen boards to look and design isn't your strong point, there's no need to worry. Our team at Melamaster are here to help you throughout, from design to creation, we make sure that every melamine product we create is done so with care and to the highest quality.

 

 

Caring for your melamine kitchen boards

As well as looking great in your kitchen, melamine kitchen boards are also extremely easy to care for. Unlike standard wooden kitchen boards, melamine kitchen boards are completely dishwasher safe, making it even easier for you to clear up after an afternoon of cooking. Washing in warm soapy water will remove any stains or food from your kitchen boards. Avoiding abrasive cleaners such as bleaches, harsh steel wool or scourers will help keep your melamine kitchen board in pristine condition. Melamine is extremely durable with shatter-resistant design so no matter what kitchen mishaps might happen, you can rely on your melamine kitchen boards.

Do you want to organise your kitchen and take your kitchenware to the next level with bespoke melamine kitchen boards? Contact us to see what we can do for you.


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Make dinnertime special with melamine placemats

There's never a better time to refresh your dinnerware than at the start of a new year. The chaos of Christmas is over and it's time for a fresh start. Over the festive period, your placemats may have suffered a little wear and tear with countless dinner parties and buffets to cope with. You might even have some festive themed placemats that simply aren't suitable for all-year-round use. It's time for “out with the old and in with the new”, because who says that special, high-quality placemats are reserved for Christmas and special occasions? At Melamaster, we provide melamine placemats in a range of designs as well as bespoke products. Our melamine placemats are sure to refresh your dinnertime for the new year and give it that finishing touch to make every mealtime feel special.

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Get creative with bespoke melamine placemats

All too often, you may find yourself buying the same old plain, generic placemats that everyone you know owns. Every mealtime creates a special moment between friends and families where not only food is shared, but also where memories are made. Creating your very own bespoke placemats will help inject that little extra special something into mealtimes. At Melamaster, we love receiving new unique designs and transforming them into melamine placemats that we know will be used and treasured for years to come. There are no limits when it comes to creating your own personalised melamine placemats. You could use a photograph of a favourite place or memory, or get creative and make your own piece of art to display in your home's dinnerware. If interior design is your thing, you could create melamine placemats that perfectly match your home's wallpaper or colour scheme. If you want unique dinnerware but struggle to find any that delivers just what you're looking for, then going bespoke with melamine designs is the answer you've been looking for. At Melamaster, we're committed to providing quality melamine products with every order, no matter what size it is. We print in high resolution to ensure for detailed quality. Setting your dinner table in style has never been so easy than with Melamaster.

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Quality that lasts

Replacing your dinnerware in the new year is a great way to freshen it up and revitalise mealtimes. But if your new year's resolution is to be more conscious when it comes to waste, you could be reluctant to replace your dinnerware, no matter how worn-out it is. When you invest in melamine placemats, you can be sure that you have a quality product that is practical and built to last. Melamine is created from an organic compound, designed to be a shatter-resistant alternative to porcelain. These strengthening properties mean that when you invest in melamine placemats, you're getting a product that is built to last. Gone are the days of putting up with poor quality products that create more waste. Melamine is the perfect material for placemats due to its ability to cope with high temperatures. Placing hot plates and dishes on your melamine placemats won't warp or damage the design, meaning you can keep your dinner setting looking pristine no matter what the occasion. Melamine placemats are also extremely easy to care for, simply wash in soapy water or wipe down with a cloth and you're ready for your next mealtime. Be sure to avoid abrasive cleaning products including harsh chemicals or scourers when cleaning your melamine placemats as this could cause damage to them.

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Melamine placemats for any occasion

One of the great things about melamine placemats is their versatility. You can use them for any occasion, from dinner parties at home to business and catering events. If you're an aspiring artist or have a business to promote, bespoke melamine placemats could be the perfect way to uniquely showcase your work and make money while you do it. At Melamaster, we specialise in fundraising projects and work with schools all over the country to make money for a good cause, and get creative with melamine on the way. Melamine placemats and dinnerware are also great for gifting, especially when you create a bespoke design with Melamaster. You could create a design that commemorates a special time or place and give to your nearest and dearest as a truly unique and thoughtful gift.

At Melamaster, we don't just specialise in melamine placemats, we have a range of melamine products for every occasion. Contact us today to find out more.


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Melamine kitchenware trends

There's not much that beats gathering around the table with your nearest and dearest to celebrate and make memories that last a lifetime. The dinnertime sit-down is a daily ritual that is an integral part of everyday life. Whether you're entertaining guests or simply catching up with your family at the end of a long day, your kitchenware should reflect your personality, style and taste. Staying on top of the latest trends can be difficult when it comes to your kitchenware. What better way is there to express your style than with your very own personalised melamine kitchenware from Melamaster? If you're tired of eating off the same old tired and dated crockery, these kitchenware trends will help inspire you to create your very own bespoke melamine kitchenware that will revitalise meal times.

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What is melamine kitchenware?

Before we get stuck into the latest trends in dinnerware designs, it's time to learn a little bit more about melamine kitchenware. Melamine is an organic-based compound designed to be a hardwearing alternative to ceramic or porcelain products. Melamine kitchenware is highly shatter-resistant, making it perfect for those busy, hustle and bustle dinnertimes that often come hand in hand with family life.

Despite its long-lasting properties, melamine kitchenware is extremely lightweight, making it easier to carry when you're hosting dinner guests or if you have a big family meal to cater for. Melamine kitchenware is also dishwasher safe and extremely easy to care for, making it much easier to clean up after a big dinner – because let's face it, nobody likes washing up. It's that simple, just take a look at our handy guide to see how easy it is to care for your melamine kitchenware.

You may think that the porcelain-alternative product with such a focus on durability would have to compromise in other areas, such as its appearance and design, this is not the case. Melamine kitchenware is virtually indistinguishable from its porcelain equivalent. You can enhance the appearance of your tableware, even more, when you create bespoke melamine kitchenware with Melamaster.

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Marble effect kitchenware

The marble trend has been everywhere this year. From kitchen worktops to furniture and phone cases, marble accessories are in. Marble designs will give your dinnerware a luxurious, modern look. Marble dinnerware can be a pretty expensive investment, not to mention heavy and easily scratched or chipped. Faux marble patterns are a great way to add a touch of glamour to your dinnerware without the hefty price tag.

At Melamaster, our melamine kitchenware is completely customisable. Simply find the marble design that's perfect for you and we'll do the rest. We're committed to providing the highest quality print melamine kitchenware for all of our customers and will communicate with you throughout the whole process. We can even provide studio design support if you need help with your design. Your marble melamine kitchenware will have your dinner table looking Instagram-ready in no time, perfect for anyone striving to be the host with the most at dinner parties.

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Perfect patterns

Patterned kitchenware can set the mood for any dinner occasion and patterns are a great way to add a talking point and brighten up your interior style. If you're bored of the same old whitewash dinnerware then why not revitalise your dinner table with some patterned plates and accessories? This is ideal if you want your style and dinnerware to stand out from the crowd as a real showcase of your personality. Whether you choose delicate florals, retro polka dots or smooth stripes, your bespoke melamine kitchenware is sure to make a statement.

Reflecting your interior style is easy when you choose to create bespoke melamine kitchenware with Melamaster. Our wide range of products on offer means you can transform your home, creating a seamless theme between your melamine kitchenware and accessories. You might want to add even more drama to your dinner table with matching placemats or disperse the design around your home with melamine printed coasters.

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Add colour with melamine kitchenware

Gone are the days of plain white crockery when it comes to dinnerware trends. Homeware stores everywhere are stocking up on colourful crockery to catch the eye of trend-setting shoppers. Pastel hues are a great way to subtly add colour into your home. You might opt for a millennial pink to match the soft furnishings in your home or even a striking black to make a statement. Black dinnerware is on the rise. It can make dishes stand out and will look great with copper or gold finish cutlery.

When you create bespoke melamine kitchenware with Melamaster, you're investing in quality British-made products that are available to be shipped internationally. So, you can have bespoke colourful crockery, wherever you are. We can send out a sample of your chosen design, meaning you can approve and amend your colour choice once you have seen it in person. 95% of our customers approve their design sample the first time, we're committed to providing high-quality products that meet customer needs.

If you're inspired to break away from your traditional white ceramic crockery and want to try something new, then contact us today to find out about our range of melamine kitchenware on offer.


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Melamine tableware: the perfect personalised gift

Christmas is getting closer and one thing that many gift-givers all around the world will be wrapping up for their loved ones is personalised gifts. Personalised gifts are the perfect present to show someone you care, especially when generic bath sets and socks are so overdone at Christmas. Simply by adding someone's name, a special date or an image to gifts shows your loved ones you've gone the extra mile. At Melamaster, we specialise in personalised melamine tableware, so this Christmas why not gift someone a unique and personalised tray, plate or mug that will remind them of you for years to come.

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What makes personalised gifts so special?

Personalised gifts have become a huge part of today's retail world, flourishing especially in the e-commerce market. Shoppers everywhere have access to personalised gifts at the touch of a button. With Melamaster, you can make bespoke melamine kitchenware enquiries through our website or by telephone.

So, what makes personalised gifts so special? Personalised gifts create a connection between those giving the gift as well as the person receiving it. These gifts give people a memento of their relationship. Personalised gifts also let people know that you're thinking of them, showing that you have gone the extra mile to create something that is personal to them. Bespoke melamine kitchenware is the perfect gift for the passionate cook, baker or home-maker in your life. Perfect for any occasion, you can never run out of ideas when it comes to personalised gifts. From birthdays and Christmas, to weddings and anniversaries, personalised gifts can help you commemorate any occasion.

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Useful melamine tableware gifts

Everyone wants to buy the people closest to them in life gifts that they will actually use. All too often we find ourselves opening presents for them to be given to charity, or left at the bottom of a drawer somewhere, gathering dust until they are eventually completely forgotten about. When you're buying gifts for someone close to you, buying something they will enjoy using and will mean something to them is essential. At Melamaster, we specialise in a wide range of melamine tableware that can be used every day. From bespoke table mats to coasters, mugs, trays and chopping boards, there really is something for everyone. You can even get a bespoke teabag tidy with a matching mug and coaster for the avid tea drinker in your life.

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Memories and gifts that last

So many gifts can become outdated or simply run out over time. Personalised gifts give a sense of longevity, not only in their appearance but in the memories that they represent. Commemorating a time, place or special moment in the form of a personalised gift makes sure the recipient has something to remind them of it forever. Gifts that represent these memories also have increased value not in price, but in what they mean to them. With Melamaster, you can create personalised melamine tableware that will last just as long as the memories it represents. Melamine is made from an organic-based compound and is designed to be durable and shatter-resistant. So, there's no need to worry about your personalised melamine gifts getting broken easily. Melamine tableware is also highly resistant to acids, alkali and many food stains.

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Personalised melamine tableware gifting ideas

If you're still struggling to think of personalised gifts for those closest to you, these bespoke melamine kitchenware ideas will help you show your friends, family and loved ones how much you care:

Photo finish coasters: Coasters are the perfect useful gift for a loved one, dotted around most homes protecting surfaces from hot drinks. Coasters are the perfect size and shape to personalise with a photo. With Melamaster, you can personalise anything from our range of melamine tableware with photos. Photos of your favourite memories such as holiday destinations, people or even your pet will create the perfect memento.

Printed mugs: You can never have too many mugs, especially if they're personalised. Why not treat someone to a mug with their name on, the perfect gift for a tea or coffee drinker who's protective over their mugs. At Melamaster, we're committed to producing personalised melamine tableware that is printed to a high standard, meaning your gift will look great no matter what design, font size or style you go for.

Personalised chopping boards: If you know someone who loves cooking, why not get them a personalised chopping board that will remind them of you every time they do what they love. Chopping boards are a great, multi-purpose gift that can be used for food preparation, displaying or serving. Why not mark a special occasion on the gift by incorporating a special date into the design? This could be an ideal gift for a couple for their wedding anniversary, displaying the date of their special day.

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With Melamaster, personalised gifts can be made simple. Our wide range of melamine tableware is bespoke, allowing you to give unique and special gifts to those closest to you. Contact us today to find out more about bespoke melamine.


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Caring for your Melamine Homeware

Melamine is the perfect solution for all of your homeware needs. It looks great, is durable, can save you money AND is easy to care for. Melamine is an organic-based compound, designed to be shatter-resistant and durable, ideal if you're looking for products that look great in your home but are also practical. Melamine kitchenware is resistant to acids, alkalis and most food stains. However, it's not invincible, so how can you keep your melamine homeware looking its best for as long as possible? These simple dos and don'ts will help you care for your melamine kitchenware, meaning you can keep it looking pristine for longer, enjoying it for years to come.

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How to care for your melamine kitchenware

Caring for your melamine homeware will keep it looking brand new for longer. Melamine is different from other kitchenware, so there are some dos and don't when it comes to caring for it. Melamine is extremely easy to care for and these simple tips will help you keep it looking perfect:

Handle your melamine homeware with care, like any other quality dinnerware. Melamine kitchenware looks and feels like porcelain and ceramics, all products are polished with a high-gloss finish. Melamine products may chip or become damaged when handled roughly, but unlike typical chine or porcelain, it will not shatter if dropped. Melamine's durability means it has a much lower replacement rate than china, saving you money in the long term. For example, melamine has an annual replacement rate of around 10% to 20%, whereas china has a replacement rate between 50% and 150%.

Use plastic pads or sponges with plastic bristles to remove dry food. This will keep your melamine kitchenware clean, without causing any damage.

Wash your melamine in warm soapy water to remove any food or stains. For tough, stuck-on stains, pre-soak your kitchenware.

Wash your melamine in a dishwasher. That's right – unlike glazed dishes, melamine tableware is 100% dishwasher safe! Thanks to its high heat retaining properties, melamine homeware will dry faster than standard dishes. Caring for and cleaning your personalised melamine homeware really is that simple. Tip: make sure you adjust the setting on your dishwasher to make sure the temperature does not exceed 100 degrees centigrade to avoid any heat damage when washing your melamine.

Inspect your dishes. Keep an eye out for any scratched, cracked, warped or melted plates. Contact your local recycling centre to find out how you can safely dispose of your melamine kitchenware in an environmentally friendly way.

What to avoid when caring for melamine homeware

Although Melamine products are extremely durable and easy to care for, they aren't invincible. The last thing you want is to ruin your melamine design by making the mistake of using any products that will damage your kitchenware permanently. These simple tips will help you know what to avoid when it comes to caring for your melamine homeware:

How not to clean your melamine homeware - a red cross to symbolise what not to do

Don't use your melamine homeware in an oven or microwave. They are not designed to withstand the high temperatures and could melt when overheated.

Don't use abrasive cleaners such as steel wool or metal scourers. If you use such materials to clean your melamine kitchenware as this could damage the gloss finish of the products.

Do not use chlorine or bleach cleaners on your melamine homeware. This could permanently damage your personalised design.

Don't submerge your melamine kitchenware in boiling water. Your melamine could absorb the heat and soften if it gets too warm.

Don't use serrated knives or other sharp utensils as they could scratch or damage the surface of your melamine kitchenware.

Melamine homeware is lightweight and more durable than porcelain, that's why it's a firm favourite kitchenware choice. Now that you know how easy it is to care for melamine homeware, why not design your own bespoke products with Melamaster? Contact us today to find out more.


Successful Fundraising Projects with Melamaster

If you're looking for personalised products that will grab people's attention and help you raise a pretty penny, then Melamaster is the place for you. Melamaster specialises in school fundraising projects. Once you have decided to start a fundraising project with Melamaster, you and your school pupils will receive a paper template to get creative with. Then it's up to us to bring the design to life in a melamine plate, giving you custom prints to keep for life. Personalised, useful products are great for fundraising projects, but besides stocking up on great products, what else does it take to organise a successful fundraising project?

Build a clear, shared goal

The most important part of any school fundraising project is the cause. You need a cause that will encourage people to purchase your melamine products. You can communicate this in your melamine design, making the cause clear from creation. You may also want to set goals for the size of your fundraising project, you'll need to know how many designs and final products you need. This will tell you how many templates you need (e.g. one per pupil) and will help you set a goal for how much money you want to raise for your school.

Shared goals with melamaster fundraising projects

Don't just tell people about your fundraising projects, show them!

Show everyone exactly where their money is going and why your school's fundraising project is important. Use statistics to educate people about your school's cause and show them what a difference their money could make with images and videos. This reminder could also be incorporated into the design of your Melamaster products, templates can be personalised with School logos, mottos, project titles (the list goes on), making the plates even more special for capturing a memorable moment in time.

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Talk - It's not a bad thing

Communication is vital in order to make the most of your fundraising project. You can use a range of communication options to keep fundraising participants, such as parents updated on your fundraising journey. This could be by phone, email or social media. It is also important to give the people the choice to opt-out of communications. You could update them on how many Melamaster products you have sold and how much this helped you raise. You can use this communication to inform people on how they can gent involved in your Melamaster school fundraiser, or even organise their own.

Mobile phone paper craft

Say Thank You

This is a simple gesture that goes a long way. Many fundraising projects are not as successful because they fail to thank their donors. This could be as simple as an email or flyer, detailing how grateful you are for their help in your school fundraiser and what their money will be put towards. You could do this in a letter sent out by the school, thanking them for their involvement and showing images of what the pupils created.

The colorful words thank you made with wooden letters with valentine heart candy on brown paper background

Keep your participants updated

Keeping your fundraising project participants updated on any achievements from the fundraiser or any future events lets them know they are still part of the cause. The pupils' parent may want to hear about any future Melamaster fundraising projects and even get involved themselves.

Melamaster is here to provide you with the perfect personalised products for your school fundraiser, give us a call today.


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Putting yourself out there with Melamaster

Let's set the scene. You're working closely with Melamaster to get your gorgeous and bespoke printing completed. You're an aspiring artist and now you have your items in front of you and you're lost as to where to start with selling them.

First thing is first – Don't worry. We're on hand to help and steer you in the right direction. If you're a new and aspiring artist, then we don't want to set you up for a fall. We're not going to guide you and push you through the office doors of big corporations, however, small and steady steps are the way forward.

Your local coffee shop

The smell of a coffee brewing and the sounds of the milk being steamed and frothed are iconic to most coffee shops and more importantly to us. We know from pop culture and television programmes that local coffee shops can be some of the coolest places to be and hang out. However, if you take a moment to look around, you may also realise that coffee shops are amazing places for young, local and aspiring artists.

At Melamaster, we work with aspiring artists all the time and we can appreciate that 'getting yourself out there' can definitely be a tricky hurdle to overcome. However, a local coffee shop could, in fact, end up becoming your best friend. Many coffee shops are looking for a group of artists or photographers to rotate their art and products on show and for sale as a way to attract new people and create an artistic and creative environment.

It also allows them the opportunity to engage with the local community while showcasing artists creations on Melamaster products. This allows guests something unique to purchase as well as bringing new and innovative creations to their coffee shop floors.

Showcasing your artwork

For artists, showing your artwork on Melamaster products and then into local coffee shops can have huge benefits. Coffee shops and cafe owners are often happy to negotiate and if they agree to adorn, you will receive a much bigger exposure with a wider audience. Though art galleries have a good offering too, they can have peculiar hours and only cater to a certain crowd and community … not forgetting that most demand a fee to enter the building. Meanwhile, coffee shops appeal to lots of different … for free.

Furthermore, there may be an opportunity to draw attention in other ways. Sometimes, local media can give exposure to both the coffee shop and your Melamaster products. We can't also dismiss the power of Social Media. If a bypasser and customer share something online about your products, the coffee shop or their surrounding, you could also gain exposure that way.

What happens next?

So, if you think you are ready for local coffee shops to display your own Melamaster custom printed products, getting your foot in the door may be much easier than you first may think. Like many things in life, art is in the asking.

Firstly, seek out a locally owned coffee shop. Even though we encourage all of our Melamaster clients to aim high, avoiding big chains like Costa, Starbucks and Cafe Nero is probably the best option for now. These big giants are less likely to accept your art.

Instead, look for the popular hole-in-the-wall type coffee joints. Make a list of the coffee shops in your area and check them out in person to make sure you like the vibe of the place and it would make a good venue for your artwork to stand out and contribute to that vibe.

Next, talk to the manager of the shop. Remember, they're not just investing in your artistic products, but they are investing in you as well. This is also best to do in person. A general tip is to not bother the manager when the coffee shop has a long line to the barista or is very busy or crowded. Find them when business is a little slower. Also, some businesses are more welcoming than others, so if you get rejected, don’t take it personally.

Saying YES with Melamaster

After you get the big yes you're waiting for from a coffee shop, there are a few things you need to prepare.
You will probably need a good artist statement about you and your work. This will help people get to know you and your art to help people connect with your work.
Coffee shops are probably not the best place to display your larger works. Often, smaller pieces work better and you can stock them nicely on a shelf. And you can always mention your website or gallery page in your artist statement to let people know about larger pieces or photos.

And once these things are done, enjoy all the benefits of the exposure you’ll gain from supporting a local business and having a wide audience see your art.

If you need a hand with what Melamaster products to choose, let us know. We’d love to hear your story, so be sure to call us.


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Questions to ask Melamaster

When you work with Melamaster on your custom prints we want to have a transparent and honest relationship with you. We appreciate that there are now over 10,500 print management companies in the UK alone varying from melamine dinnerware to leaflets and offline marketing material. Finding the perfect one to work with can be a challenge in itself.

As with anything, before signing any dotted line, take the opportunity to talk to a potential print company to get an idea of what a working relationship with them will be like.

We've put together six vital questions to ask us to make sure you know exactly what you're getting with Melamaster.

Ask Away

What Services Do You Offer?

Is Everything Done In-House?

What Are Their Turnaround Times Like?

Are There Similar Print Projects You Can Take a Look At?

What Makes Them Different?

Will They Carry Out Bespoke Requests?

What services does Melamaster offer?

You're hardly going to commit to a working relationship without knowing exactly what they can do for you, but it's still vital to find out the full range of services that they can provide.
At Melamaster, we pride ourselves on strong design, working with both established and upcoming creative artists and product developers, innovating new products from its British manufacturing base.
Melamaster has grown as a leading UK homewares brand whilst growing bespoke manufacturing for many other high street names. Melamaster prides itself on the superiority of our products, friendliness of the staff and professional level of service when it comes to our Melamine products.

Services on offer at Melamaster

Is everything completed in-house?

There could be some instances where you may take a tour of the print company and be impressed and they’ve given a fantastic first impression and you can’t wait to get started.
But, further down the line, you realise the quality of the work isn’t quite up to the standard you thought it would be. This could be because they’ve outsourced your project to a smaller company to cope with their workload.

At Melamaster, we look after your from A to Z. Our technical skills are utilised in building UK based production servicing numerous bespoke customers worldwide.

In-house printing at Melamaster

What are your turnaround times like?

Print projects usually have tight deadlines and this is something we work very hard to meet each time.

We appreciate that it is up to the printers to turn your plans into the finished product. You need to work with a reliable print company who’s able to meet your deadlines and provide quick turnaround times so that your project isn’t delayed. We offer quick turnaround times and low minimum orders to ensure that our 40+ experience isn't wasted.

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Can I look at similar projects?

We're lucky enough to be able to showcase our beautiful designs and projects online at Melamaster. However, with other print companies, you may not be so lucky. Ask to see case studies or testimonials so you have an idea of the work they’ve carried out in the past.

Project management at Melamaster

What makes Melamaster different?

You’re looking for a creative and professional company to work with, so you should ask them what makes them special. Why are they the right choice and printing company to work with?

Melamaster is built on experience and that can be seen in our high-end quality bespoke products. Prior to the late '70s, Melamaster produced a range of technical products for a number of industries, domestic appliance and automotive being just two. In the late 70’s the opportunity arose to become involved in developing and marketing ranges of decorative giftware and tableware.

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Will you carry out bespoke requests?

One of the most important questions to ask printing companies is how they’ll deal with any bespoke jobs you have for them. We are orientated around bespoke printing and that is something we live and breathe. If you're looking for some new promotional products, fundraising or need something new for a work event, we have everything you need to print whatever you want. We can help, the possibilities are endless.

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Meet the Melamaster Team and Ask Away

We’re on hand to answer these questions and any others you might have. To get to know us a little better, give us a call and speak with one of the team to get the ball rolling.

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