Choosing the right award certificate or keepsake matters — whether you’re recognizing employee achievement, rewarding students, or creating a memorable party prize. We evaluated practical certificate paper, creative certificate alternatives, and meaningful keepsakes. Our recommendations come from hands-on testing, product specs, and consumer feedback to help you pick the best fit.
How we tested and selected
What we looked for: durability (paper weight and finish), print compatibility, visual impact (borders, foil, color), flexibility (usable for multiple occasions), and value. We combined real-world usage (printing and presentation), expert opinion (materials and print specs), and consumer feedback (ease of use and perceived value). For non-traditional items we judged their suitability as award alternatives — e.g., novelty certificates or keepsakes — based on presentation, user experience, and versatility.
Testing notes: we printed sample certificates where relevant to check bleed, ink absorption, and foil contrast. For novelty and keepsake items we checked build quality, perceived ‘award’ feel, and how well they fit common recognition scenarios.
10-Line Scratch Cards
A pack of 100 ten-line scratch-off strip cards that add a gamified, interactive twist to awards and party pools. Durable 100# cover stock and opaque gold scratch-off ink give a secure, fun reveal suitable for events and casual recognition.
These 10-line scratch cards are an inexpensive, playful way to hand out recognition or prizes at parties and informal awards. The 100# bright white cover stock feels sturdy, and the commercial-grade gold scratch-off ink hides numbers cleanly without see-through issues. They’re not traditional certificates, but their interactive format can increase engagement in team events, classroom incentives, and party contests. Pros: secure metallic scratch-off, no duplicate numbers, multiple color options. Cons: not suitable for formal recognition or framing; limited to gamified uses.
Southworth Premium Certificates
High-quality 66 lb premium certificates with a spiro silver foil border. Laser and inkjet compatible, acid-free construction resists yellowing — ideal for formal awards, diplomas, and keepsakes that need a polished, professional finish.
If you need a traditional, professional-looking certificate, these Southworth premium certificates are the standout. The 66 lb weight gives a substantial hand-feel that reads as premium, and the silver foil-enhanced border elevates presentation without additional laminating or framing. Compatibility with laser, inkjet, and copier devices means straightforward printing in-office or at home; acid-free stock prevents yellowing over time. Pros: premium finish, reliable print compatibility, archival quality. Cons: sold in small 15-packs — budget buyers needing large runs should plan accordingly.
100 Squares Scratch Board
A 10-pack of 9" x 11" football squares boards that double as large-format scratch-off certificates for events. Made on 100# bright cover stock with gold scratch-off boxes — great for high-participation award games and office pools.
These 100-square scratch boards are designed for group events and make an excellent value when you need many interactive ‘certificates’ or prize spaces. The larger 9" x 11" size gives space for names and makes the reveal visible to crowds, while gold metallic scratch-off ink maintains security and legibility. Though intended for sports pools, they translate well to classroom incentives, fundraising raffles, and team celebrations where group participation is key. Pros: large format, good visibility, 10 boards per pack. Cons: not a formal certificate; best for informal/group recognition.
Be Brave Necklace
A heartfelt keepsake necklace pendant stamped with encouraging words — a tactile award alternative to certificates. Gold-plated and handmade in the USA; stands out as a personal, long-lasting recognition gift for individuals.
When recognition should be personal and lasting, a keepsake like this inspirational necklace delivers more impact than paper. The pendant’s engraved encouragements and gold-plated finish give it emotional weight appropriate for milestone awards, mentorship acknowledgments, or a ‘thank you’ to a standout individual. It’s handmade and presented ready to gift, removing the need for printing or framing. Pros: durable, meaningful, immediate giftable presentation. Cons: not a certificate; higher per-recipient cost compared with printed options.
Quick comparison — Key differences
- Traditional certificate (Southworth Premium Certificates): Best for formal recognition, archival quality, and professional printing.
- Large-format interactive (100 Squares Scratch Board): Best for group events and high-participation reveals; visible and fun.
- Budget interactive (10-Line Scratch Cards): Low-cost, portable, and great for informal parties or classroom incentives.
- Keepsake option (Be Brave Necklace): Emotional, long-lasting recognition ideal when a physical memento is preferred.
Which is best overall?
- Best overall (formal awards): Southworth Premium Certificates. They deliver the professional appearance and archival properties required for serious recognition.
Alternatives for specific needs:
- Use the 100 Squares Scratch Board when you need many participant spots and an engaging reveal for crowds.
- Use the 10-Line Scratch Cards if budget and gamification are priorities.
- Choose the Be Brave Necklace if you want a personal keepsake in place of a certificate.
Final recommendation
For formal award programs, public recognitions, or anytime you want a certificate that will be kept and possibly framed, go with the Southworth Premium Certificates for their weight, foil border, and archival quality. If your goal is engagement — classroom incentives, office pools, or party games — the scratch-off boards and strip cards are clever, inexpensive alternatives that increase participation. For one-to-one recognition with emotional impact, a keepsake necklace creates a memorable, long-lasting token.
All recommendations here are based on printed-material testing, hands-on inspection of finish and print compatibility, and consideration of user scenarios. Choose the product that matches your recognition style: formal, gamified, high-capacity, or keepsake.