What an enamel pin is
An enamel pin is a small metal badge with colour filled between raised metal lines, fixed to clothing or bags with a pin and back. It is one of the most flexible products we make: it works as a membership badge, a staff award, an event souvenir or a retail item.
Soft enamel and hard enamel
- Soft enamel fills colour slightly below the raised metal lines. You can feel the outlines, colours are bright, and it costs less, which suits giveaways and large runs.
- Hard enamel is filled level with the metal and polished smooth. It looks and feels like jewellery and resists wear, which suits retail, staff and award pins.
- Printing adds gradients, photos and fine artwork, usually under a clear epoxy dome.
Metal and shape
Stamped iron is the economical base for flat soft enamel pins. Brass and copper are die-struck for crisp lines and are the usual base for hard enamel. Zinc alloy is die-cast when the pin needs cut-out holes, a 3D element or an unusual outline. Every pin is cut to the outline of your design, so there is no fixed shape.
Plating and backs
Plating sets the colour of the metal lines: shiny gold, silver or copper, antique finishes or black nickel. Black nickel makes bright enamel colours stand out; gold suits awards. Backs include butterfly clutches, rubber backs, locking backs, safety pins and magnets. Choose locking backs for pins worn on bags and jackets.
Retail and gift packaging
For retail, we print backing cards and pack pins in OPP bags with header cards and barcode labels. For awards, small velvet or printed boxes are available; see packaging boxes.
Related products
Character and fan artwork is covered on anime and fan badges, including licensing requirements. For a pin design on a key ring, see keychains.
Ordering notes
The minimum order is 100 pieces per design. Samples take about 7 days and finished goods about 14 days in total, both counted from the day after your deposit. Send your artwork with the size, quantity and back type. The customization guide compares the options, and you can request a quote when ready.
