Hi,
There is many ways to insert a physical sticker in an assembly and have it in the BOM, but in all cases you must have a physical part to mate on the assembly.
Option 1:
You have an image file, you can use the decal function on the part. Doing that, you'll see it while working on the 3D and if you do a rendering but in the drawing you just see it in shaded view, not in hidden line removed or any of the 3 "not shaded" options. You'll just see the contour of the 3D part.
Option 2:
You have an image file, you can use the sketch picture function on the part. Doing that, you'll see it on the 3D (with sketch picture on) and in the drawing; in all type of views, it will be in color but still present. However, you will not see it on the rendering.
Option 3:
You use a vectorial file and split line function an apply colors on different regions. Doing so, you'll see the decal everywhere but it is more work and you cannot apply colors with gradient. Applying all the colors on all the regions can be a pain in the ass if the sticker is a text with many letters.
Option 4:
You use a vectorial file and extrude function an apply colors on the function. Doing so, you'll see the decal everywhere but you cannot apply colors with gradient. Since the regions are extruded (by small distance; .001") you are adding lots of faces on the part and make it heavier for the system.
Life is not perfect on this one but I'm sure SW can make it easier! I'll ask for an enhancement request!
Robin
SolidworksParts And Features