This display spoon from mainland China's Logo Emblem is available in various finishes and handle designs.

While mainland China makers utilize zinc alloy, brass, resin and enamel, Taiwan companies focus on special design techniques.

Suppliers of collectible memorabilia and souvenirs in mainland China and Taiwan are employing more materials and design methods to keep the line fresh.

The latest keychains, coins, lapel pins and display spoons are available in different types of metal and plastic. Alternatives such as rubber and polyresin are also used to increase diversity.

Emphasizing aesthetics, some makers are adding clear soft enamel to zinc alloy models, rendering a 3-D effect. One mainland company interviewed has launched a commemorative coin featuring this combination.

For the upscale market, many mainland suppliers are offering products plated with gold or silver. Themed coins, bottle openers and mobile phone charms are among the best-sellers in this category.

Embroidered models are also popular, mostly in the midrange segment. These include display art, patches and luggage tags. Boasting computerized stitching, some versions even come with patterns in metallic or luminous thread for added luster.

In Taiwan, the majority of makers are exploring different design techniques to widen assortment. Both manual and automated methods are utilized, although the latter is preferred for complex details and large-volume production.

New models from the island may feature stamped, etched, electroplated or laser-engraved motifs. Intricate patterns are rendered using software such as AutoCAD, Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, and CorelDraw.

Products with raised surfaces are gaining momentum because of their superior visual appeal and texture. Some Taiwan companies, in fact, have increased their output of embossed commemorative coins that resemble bank-issued versions.

Among mainland suppliers featured, Dongguan Jian Plastic & Metal Products Ltd is offering collectible coins in zinc alloy. To gain an edge over manufacturers that also employ this material, the company incorporates enamel in its releases.

One of Dongguan Jian’s best-sellers is a commemorative coin with a transparent soft enamel center on which designs can be etched. Measuring 50mm in diameter, the model comes with a display stand. The price is $2.63.

Zinc alloy likewise dominates production at ISO 9001:2000-certified Artimetals Gift & Premium Mfy Co. Ltd. Embossed keychains, letter openers and display spoons are among the latest collectibles offered.

Boosting interest, the supplier is incorporating functional enhancements in its models. One of its letter openers, for example, has a built-in magnifier.

At Logo Emblem Industries Co. Ltd, releases come in zinc alloy, brass, stainless steel and PVC. Additionally, the company is offering upscale products in gold and silver.

The supplier’s range includes keychains, money clips, coins, bottle openers and coasters. Logo Emblem has started manufacturing premiums for the Beijing Olympics.

Zinc, aluminum and tin-lead alloy, copper, brass, iron, steel, polyresin and enamel constitute the material selection at Kunshan Top Tree Decoration Co. Ltd. Some new models undergo epoxy application for improved corrosion resistance.

The ISO 9001:200-certified company has produced for Coca-Cola, Hard Rock, BMW, Toyota, Porsche and the Olympics.

Collectible memorabilia and souvenirs from the mainland are usually targeted at the low-end and midrange markets. Prices are between $0.30 and $5, depending on the material, size and finish.

In Taiwan, Tech Arts International Co. Ltd employs polishing and electroplating in its releases. The model 3 keychain, for instance, is electroplated with brass for enhanced luster. It is available in Eiffel Tower and horse designs.

Further, to give metal coins, badges and lapel pins a translucent appearance, the maker uses enamel. Paint can be applied as well.

At Shopping Town Global Marketing Co. Ltd, designs are rendered mainly by embossing. According to general manager Kenneth Chen, this technique is suitable for yielding fine patterns.

As a result, Shopping Town’s latest commemorative coins resemble monetary versions issued by banks.

Similarly, Marktex Co. is offering badges with embossed designs. Lapel pins and keychains are available as well.

Additionally, the company has increased its production of embroidered patches because of strong demand in key markets such as the US and the EU.

Model 2 from ISO 9001:200-certified Shinfui Emblem Inc. is embroidery art in a fish theme. A version depicting winter in Japan is also available.

The company runs two factories, one in Taipei and the other in Shanghai in the mainland. The plants are equipped with Tajima computerized embroidery machines, which are used for incorporating consistent stitch patterns on display art, badges and luggage tags.

At Working Kingdom Ind. Co. Ltd, the latest collectible coins are plated with gold and silver for greater appeal. Models come in Chinese zodiac designs.

There are about 250 suppliers of collectible memorabilia in Taiwan. According to local customs data, the island’s exports reached $12.7 million worth in 2007, with woven and nonwoven badges constituting a large part.