Soft vs. Hard Enamel Pins: Pros, Cons & When to Use Each
Last updated: September 2025
If you’ve ever Googled “types of enamel pins,” you’ve probably stumbled into the eternal debate: soft enamel vs. hard enamel. It sounds dramatic, but don’t worry—this isn’t Marvel vs. DC. Both options are durable, high-quality, and collectible. The real difference? Finish, texture, vibe, and how you plan to use your pins. At Dream Maker Pins, we help of creators, nonprofits, and businesses choose between the two, and today we’re breaking it down, bestie-style.
What’s the Real Difference Between Soft and Hard Enamel Pins?
Here’s the truth: it’s not about quality. Both styles are strong, long-lasting, and look amazing. The difference lies in how they’re finished:
- Soft Enamel: The enamel sits slightly recessed below raised metal lines, giving your pin a textured feel. This is the classic enamel pin look most people think of.
- Hard Enamel: The enamel is layered and polished flat until smooth with the metal lines. The result? A sleek, glossy, luxe finish.
Soft Enamel Pins: The Go-To Classic
Soft enamel pins are the most common style and the easiest way to get started if you’re ordering custom pins for the first time. They’re budget-friendly, versatile, and allow for fun design effects.
✨ Pros
- More affordable to produce (perfect for bulk orders)
- Easy to add special effects like glitter, glow-in-the-dark, epoxy, or cutouts
- Iconic textured look collectors love
⚠️ Cons
- More prone to scratches over time
- Doesn’t feel as “premium” as hard enamel
Best for: artists selling affordable merch, designs with funky effects, and projects where budget matters most.
Hard Enamel Pins: The Premium Pick
If you’re going for sleek, fashion-forward, or collector-level pins, hard enamel is your bestie. With a polished surface and durability, they’re made to impress.
✨ Pros
- Polished, smooth surface that feels high-end
- More durable (no recessed enamel to chip)
- Sleek, professional finish collectors adore
⚠️ Cons
- More expensive to produce
- Limited effects (glitter, sandblasting, and textures don’t work well)
- Slightly fewer color options due to the polishing process
Best for: fashion-forward pins, limited edition drops, and collectors who want that luxe shine.
Soft vs. Hard Enamel: Quick Comparison
| Feature | Soft Enamel | Hard Enamel |
|---|---|---|
| Finish | Textured, recessed enamel | Smooth, polished surface |
| Durability | Durable but can scratch | Highly durable, resistant to chips |
| Price | More affordable | Higher investment |
| Design Effects | Glitter, glow, cutouts possible | Limited effects, flat finish |
| Best For | Budget-friendly, fun designs | Premium, fashion, collectors |
Our Take at Dream Maker Pins
At Dream Maker Pins, we create both soft enamel and hard enamel pins. We’ll always give you honest advice on which style makes the most sense for your design, budget, and audience. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Real talk: we won’t push you toward the pricier option if it’s not the right fit.
- Customization: we offer glitter, glow, cutouts, custom shapes, and plating choices.
- Support: you’ll get design help, proofs, and updates every step of the way.
- Bulk & custom orders: whether you need 50 pins or 5,000, we’ll make it work.
We know pins are more than products—they’re moments in time, gifts of solidarity, and tools for raising awareness. That’s why so many nonprofits, artists, and businesses trust us to make them.
Want to see what we’ve already made for other clients? Check out our Customer Projects Gallery for real examples of enamel pins we’ve brought to life. It’s the best way to see what’s possible for your own project.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which lasts longer: soft enamel or hard enamel?
Both are long-lasting. Hard enamel is slightly more resistant to scratches and chips due to its smooth, polished surface.
Can I add glitter or glow-in-the-dark effects?
Yes! Those effects work best with soft enamel. Hard enamel pins usually can’t handle textured effects due to polishing.
Do collectors prefer one style over the other?
Collectors love both. Soft enamel has the iconic textured look, while hard enamel feels more premium. Many collections mix both styles.
Which is more affordable for bulk orders?
Soft enamel is usually the budget-friendly choice, especially if you need large quantities or want special finishes.
Can Dream Maker Pins help me choose?
Absolutely. We’ll review your design and recommend the best option—without upselling you. Our goal is to make a pin you’re proud of.
Where can I see examples of pins you’ve made?
You can browse our Customer Projects Gallery to view real-life examples of enamel pins we’ve created for nonprofits, small businesses, and artists. It’s the best place to spark ideas for your own design.