Hard vs soft enamel
Hard enamel is polished flat and smooth, with a jewelry-like finish. Soft enamel sits below the metal lines for a textured feel and is usually less expensive.
Design for metal
- Use bold outlines — very thin lines and tiny text don’t reproduce well.
- Limit your colors; each color can affect cost.
- Provide vector artwork with Pantone references.
Size and backing
Most pins land between 1 and 1.5 inches. Choose rubber or metal clutches, and consider two posts for wider designs so they don’t spin.
Extras that stand out
Glitter, glow-in-the-dark enamel, screen-printed details, and custom backing cards make pins feel premium.
Order smart
Ask about minimum quantities, proofs, production time, and shipping. Always approve a digital proof before production.
Beyond pins
The same artwork can carry over to stickers, patches, prints, and apparel for a cohesive merch line.