I’ve always felt that a personalized enamel pin isn’t something you just happen to pick up—it says something. Whether you’re ordering items for an event, designing pin badges as a limited-edition gift, or working with a small-batch production that requires no minimum order, the perfect enamel pin can stay with people much longer than a flyer or business card. In this guide, I will take you through everything I wish I knew before I began: what they are, how they’re made, and how to design one that feels unforgettably your own.
What Are Custom Enamel Pins?
A custom enamel pin is a small decorative piece made of metal such as brass, with colored enamel filling. They are designed to be fastened on jackets, bags, or lanyards with a pin on the back. I’ve seen brands use them to commemorate anniversaries, honor employees, and create awareness for a cause. They’re a way to express identity or appreciation in a tangible way.
If you need custom enamel pins with no minimum or fast production, plenty of suppliers can help if you ask early on.
Hard Enamel vs. Soft Enamel: Which One To Choose?
One of the earliest choices I had to make was whether to go with soft enamel or hard enamel. Soft enamel pins are recessed, creating a textured surface that feels active and a little playful. They are generally less expensive and pair nicely with bright colors and casual styles.
Hard enamel pins, by contrast, have the enamel filled to the top and polished flat. This gives them a sleek, jewel-like finish that feels premium. If you plan to use custom pins as official gifts or trophies, you’d better choose hard enamel.
For most brands, it comes down to budget, visual style, and how the pin will be used.
How to Order Custom Enamel Pins: A Step-by-Step Guide
The process of producing enamel pins is more involved than I thought. Here’s the typical workflow:
Design Creation
First, I create the artwork in vector format. Simple shapes and clean lines are always stronger. If you’re not sure how to design enamel pins, many suppliers offer free design services.
Mold & Sampling
After approval, the manufacturer creates a mold and produces a sample. This is when I verify the plating, size, and attachment selections.
Production Timeline
Production usually takes 2–3 weeks, but depending on the time of year, it can be shorter. If you have a tight deadline, make sure to check availability before placing an order.
Customization Options and Size Guide
I never realized how much I could customize until I started ordering:
Sizes and Shapes
Most of my pins are between 1 and 2 inches, balancing visibility and cost. If you need help, your supplier should have an enamel pin size guide.
Plating and Finish
Gold, silver, black nickel, and antique finishes all create different impressions. Gold-plated enamel pins feel traditional and sophisticated, while matte black looks modern and on-trend.
Attachments and Packaging
Choose a rubber clutch, strong magnet, or other backing that suits your needs. Packaging with branded backing cards or a small gift box always makes a stronger impact.
Price and Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ)
One question I get asked a lot is: How much do custom enamel pins cost?
Pricing depends on:
- Volume: Larger quantities mean lower cost per unit.
- Size and Colors: Bigger pins and more colors increase the price.
- Plating Options: Specialty platings cost extra.
Most factories have a minimum order quantity of 50–100 pieces. If you’re just starting out, ask if they can accommodate a smaller run.
Conclusion and Call to Action
A pin may be small, but make no mistake—it has the power to tell a story like few products can. When you focus on great design, quality materials, and thoughtful packaging, your pins can become a piece of your brand that stands the test of time.
If you’d like assistance designing enamel pins or want a fast quote, message us anytime. It’s always my pleasure to share ideas and help you get started.