What Are Custom Enamel Pins? A Beginner's Guide to Tiny Wearable Branding
You’ve seen enamel pins everywhere—on hats, jackets, lanyards, backpacks. But what are they, and why do brands, teams, nonprofits, and creators love them so much? This guide breaks down what custom enamel pins are, how they’re made, and how to order your own (without headaches).
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What counts as an enamel pin?
An enamel pin is a small metal accessory filled with colored enamel. Designs range from logos and mascots to cause ribbons and event badges. A sturdy pin back (butterfly clutch, rubber, locking clasp, or magnet) lets you wear it on almost anything.
What makes a pin “custom”?
“Custom” means it’s made from your art, logo, or idea—not a pre-made design. You choose the size, shape, metal plating, and backing. We help translate your idea into pin-ready art and manufacture it for you.
Soft enamel vs. hard enamel
- Soft enamel: Textured surface (recessed color with raised metal lines). Great detail, budget-friendly, and perfect for effects like glitter or glow-in-the-dark.
- Hard enamel: Polished smooth and ultra-durable with a premium feel. Ideal for professional logos, uniforms, or daily wear.
Why brands & causes love pins
- Wearable branding: Tiny but mighty—pins turn supporters and staff into ambassadors.
- Great for fundraising & awareness: Pins pair perfectly with campaigns and events.
- Affordable in bulk: Smart pricing and strong perceived value.
- Giftable & collectible: Easy to trade, collect, and display.
Real projects we’ve made
We’ve produced custom pins for people involved with the Little League World Series, ESPN pins for the Special Olympics USA & World Games, Olive Garden, fire departments, memorial fundraisers, and more. Browse photos and ideas on our Customer Projects page.
How ordering works (step-by-step)
- Share your idea. Send your logo, sketch, or inspiration. We can help clean up artwork.
- Pick options. Size/shape, metal plating (gold, silver, black nickel, etc.), soft vs. hard enamel, and your preferred backing.
- Approve a mockup. We’ll provide a digital proof for review before production.
- Production & delivery. Our minimum order is 100 pins. Standard production is about 2–3 weeks after approval. Shipping time depends on destination. Need it sooner? Ask about rush availability.
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Deep dive: our process
Want more detail before you start? Visit our dedicated page—mockups, plating choices, backings, packaging, and more are explained clearly: Custom Enamel Pins: Process & Options.
Custom pin FAQs
What file types do you accept?
We can work from vector files (AI, EPS, SVG) or high-resolution PNG/JPG. Not sure your art is “pin-ready”? Send what you have—we’ll help tidy it up.
What’s your minimum order?
Our custom enamel pins have a 100-pin minimum.
How long does production take?
Most orders ship in about 2–3 weeks after you approve the mockup.
Can you match my brand colors?
Yes—provide HEX or Pantone references and we’ll get your colors dialed in.
What sizes work best?
Popular sizes are 1.0″–1.5″ for jackets and lanyards; smaller pins (0.75″–1.0″) are great for uniforms and events. We’ll guide you based on your art.
Which should I pick—soft or hard enamel?
Choose soft enamel for a textured, budget-friendly look with special effects; choose hard enamel for a smooth, premium finish (great for logos and everyday wear).
Do you make backer cards or packaging?
Yes—ask about branded backer cards and packaging options to elevate your presentation for retail, events, or gifting.
Where can I see past work?
Check out real-world examples on our Customer Projects page.
Ready to make custom enamel pins?
Start your project in minutes. Tell us about your idea, and we’ll send a mockup, pricing, and timeline.
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