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Have you ever had an amazing design idea but didn’t know how to turn it into a custom enamel pin? If you’ve searched for “how to make an enamel pin,” you’re likely looking for a simple, step-by-step guide that shows you how to bring that awesome idea to life. The good news is—you’re in the right place!
We can break down the process of making your personalized enamel pin into 6 easy steps. Whether you’re creating pins for your business, a special event, or your own collection, by following these steps, we can help you get your custom pins in hand in just 2-4 weeks. Let’s jump right in and get started on bringing your design to life!
Step 1: Prepare Your Design Files (Keep It Simple!)
Before getting to the fun part of creating your custom enamel pin, let’s talk about the basics—your design. Many people make the mistake of overcomplicating things, but simpler is usually better. Here’s why:
First, it’s important to know how enamel pins are made. The process starts with a metal mold, and each section of the mold is outlined by metal borders. Each section can only hold one color. So, if you want multiple colors, make sure to separate them with lines in your design to keep the colors from mixing.
That’s why we suggest using lines at least 0.2mm thick to separate colors in your design. Unless you’re using gradient colors or special effects like silk screen printing or UV printing. These options can be expensive, so we usually don’t recommend them unless your budget allows. If your budget covers it, feel free to get creative!
If you’re unsure about these effects or need help, don’t hesitate to reach out to our experts or check out our website for more info.
And if this sounds too complicated, you can always hire a pro to help turn your ideas into a great design.
When it comes to colors, make sure to use Pantone colors. This is the color system all manufacturers use to keep things consistent. Using Pantone colors in your design will help ensure your final pin looks just like you imagined.
Once your artwork is finalized, save it in vector formats such as .AI, .EPS, or .PDF. This will ensure the highest quality and make it easier to work with the pin manufacturer.
Step 2: Don’t Forget About the Back of the Pin
The front of your enamel pin is where the magic happens, but don’t ignore the back—it’s just as important! The back helps keep your pin secure and even gives you extra space for customization.
Pin Backstamp: Add a Personal Touch
The back of your pin isn’t just for function—it’s a great place to add a small design. You can include your company logo, brand name, or even a slogan. It’s an easy way to promote your brand and mark your work with a unique signature. Some brands also use this space for copyright information.
Pin-Back: How Many Do You Need?
A pin-back is the needle-like mechanism that attaches your pin to a surface. The number of pin-backs you need depends on the size and weight of your pin:
- Small pins (under 1 inch): One pin-back is usually enough.
- Medium pins (1-1.5 inches): One pin-back works, but adding a second one provides extra stability.
- Large pins (over 1.5 inches): Two or even three pin-backs are recommended to keep the pin from rotating or falling off.
For oversized or heavy pins, using additional pin-backs ensures they stay securely attached without tilting or shifting.
Pin Backing Card: Packaging That Stands Out
A pin backing card isn’t just for holding the pin—it’s part of the presentation. A well-designed card can:
✔️ Make your brand more recognizable
✔️ Highlight the pin’s design
✔️ Give extra space for branding, a slogan, or contact info
If you’re selling or gifting your pins, a custom backing card adds a professional touch and makes your pins look even more appealing.
Step 3: Hard Enamel vs. Soft Enamel – Which One to Choose?
Now that you’ve finalized your front and back design, it’s time to decide between hard enamel and soft enamel. Both options are high quality, but they have different looks, textures, and best-use cases. Here’s a quick comparison to help you choose:
| Feature | Hard Enamel Pins | Soft Enamel Pins |
|---|---|---|
| Surface | Smooth & polished | Textured with raised metal edges |
| Durability | Scratch-prone but long-lasting | More resistant to scratches |
| Look & Feel | Glossy, high-end finish | Bold, detailed, and vibrant |
| Production Time | Longer | Faster |
| Price | Slightly more expensive | More affordable |
| Best For | Complex designs, anime-style artwork, or premium collectibles | Logos, mini pins, and designs with bold colors |
Can You Mix Both in One Pin?
Yes! You don’t have to stick to just one type. Soft enamel and hard enamel can be combined in a single pin design—as long as the production process allows it. There are no strict rules, so feel free to get creative and choose what works best for your vision.
Step 4: Choosing the Right Factory & Communicating Like a Pro
Picking the right factory is just as important as designing your pin. A good factory ensures quality, fair pricing, and smooth production. But how do you know which one to choose?
How to Evaluate a Factory
Before placing an order, take some time to research. Here are a few ways to assess a factory’s reliability:
✅ Check Their Work – Look at their social media posts or online galleries. This gives you a sense of their craftsmanship.
✅ Ask for Samples – If possible, request a sample pin or at least a photo of a past project similar to yours.
✅ Get Recommendations – If you know other designers who have ordered pins, ask them about their experiences.
✅ Talk to the Sales Team – No matter what others say, your own experience matters most. Reach out and ask questions!
Key Questions to Ask the Factory
When contacting a factory, ask about these essential details to avoid surprises:
🔹 Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ) – What’s the smallest number of pins I can order?
🔹 Pricing – How much for 100 units of my design? Any bulk discounts?
🔹 Production & Shipping Time – How long does it take from artwork approval to shipping?
🔹 Payment Terms – Can I pay 50% upfront and 50% after I approve a sample photo?
🔹 Proof Photos – Will you send me a photo of the finished pins before shipping?
🔹 Molds & Reorders – How long do you keep the mold? Can I reorder pins later at a lower cost?
How to Communicate Clearly with a Factory
Factories work best when they have all the details upfront. Make sure to provide:
📌 Design Files – Include dimensions, Pantone colors, and special effects (e.g., glitter, glow-in-the-dark).
📌 Quantity & Size – Specify the size (in inches) and how many pins you need.
📌 Plating & Backing Options – Gold, silver, black nickel? One or two pin-backs? Let them know!
📌 Deadline – If you need the pins for a specific event, mention your timeline upfront.
📌 Budget & Discounts – Ask if they offer bulk discounts or any first-time customer deals.
Finding the right factory isn’t just about price—it’s about quality, trust, and communication. Do your research, ask the right questions, and don’t be afraid to negotiate. The more informed you are, the smoother your pin-making journey will be!
Step 5: Budgeting, Quantity & Timeline—Keeping It Smooth
Planning ahead will save you money, time, and stress when making your enamel pins. Here’s how to budget wisely, choose the right quantity, and stay on schedule.
💰 Budgeting: What Affects the Cost?
The price of your pins depends on several factors:
🔹 Soft vs. Hard Enamel – Soft enamel is more budget-friendly, starting at $1.50 per pin (100+ units). Hard enamel, with its polished finish, costs more—usually $2.00-$2.50 per pin.
🔹 Size & Complexity – A larger or highly detailed pin means a higher price. A 2-inch pin can cost 50% more than a 1-inch pin.
🔹 Cost-Saving Tips:
✅ Use UV printing instead of complex enamel fills to save money.
✅ Limit colors—fewer Pantone colors mean lower costs.
✅ Order in bulk—pricing drops significantly at 100+ units.
📦 Quantity: How Many Should You Order?
Your order size impacts pricing and flexibility:
✔ 30 Pins – Ideal for limited editions or personal projects. (MOQ at most factories, including Factorypin.)
✔ 100-500 Pins – Best for brands, artists, or businesses—big savings per unit!
✔ 1,000+ Pins – If you’re selling at scale, this gives you the lowest per-unit cost.
⏳ Timeline: When Will Your Pins Arrive?
🏭 Standard Production: 2-4 weeks from order confirmation.
⚡ Rush Orders: Need pins fast? Pay extra for 1-2 week turnaround.
🚚 Shipping Time: 1-2 weeks depending on location & shipping method.
✅ Pro Tip: To avoid delays, confirm your design details and payment early. Last-minute changes can push back production!
By setting a realistic budget, choosing the right quantity, and planning ahead, your enamel pin project will go smoothly—without unnecessary stress or extra costs.
Got a deadline? Order early and communicate clearly with your factory! 🚀
Step 6: Recommended Enamel Pin Manufacturers
Choosing a reliable manufacturer is one of the final steps in your custom enamel pin journey. Here are a few top recommendations:
- Factorypin – With a strong reputation for quality and customer service, Factorypin offers:
- Customizable options for both hard and soft enamel pins.
- Free design consultations and first-time customer discounts.
- Competitive pricing with MOQs starting at just 30 pins.
- Pin Pros – Known for their fast turnaround times, they specialize in producing high-quality soft enamel pins.
- Lapel Pins Plus – Offers eco-friendly manufacturing options and a wide variety of finishes.
- The Pin People – Ideal for larger orders and offers personalized customer support throughout the process.
By working with trusted manufacturers, you can rest assured that your enamel pins will meet your expectations.
Conclusion
And that’s a wrap! 🎉 Now you’ve got everything you need to design, produce, and order your custom enamel pins like a pro.
Got questions or need a little extra guidance? Shoot us a message—we’re always happy to help.
Happy pin-making! 😊
