The Right Choice: Should I Get Soft or Hard Enamel Pins?

Enamel pins are small accessories in various shapes, colors, and sizes. These items allow you to add a personalized touch to your outfits or accessories and can be excellent collectibles for people of all ages. They can also help individuals or organizations promote a cause or message. 

These accessories are available in soft and hard enamel pins. While each pin has distinct features, its production process sets them apart. However, knowing what’s best for your needs can be tricky. 

Let’s help you decide whether to get soft or hard enamel pins. 

Hard Enamel: What Is It and How People Make Them

Also known as cloisonné pins, people create hard enamel pins by soldering thin metal wires onto a base metal pin to create tiny cells filled with enamel powder. They’ll then fire the material in a kiln, file it down, and polish it for a smooth and durable finish. Like glass, it has a smooth and glossy appearance and can have multiple colors baked and set separately. 

What Are the Benefits of Choosing Hard Enamel Pins?

Hard enamel pins are durable, scratch-resistant, and have a glass-like finish that complements gold and silver metal plating. They also have a smooth appearance. 

Soft Enamel Pins: What Are They and How People Make Them

People make soft enamel pins from raw materials like red copper, inject them with enamel paste, and bake, grind, polish, and electroplate them. 

What Are the Benefits of Choosing Soft Enamel Pins?

Soft enamel badges are ideal for detailed finishes with multiple colors and are affordable when you order them in bulk. They have a traditional look and feel with a tidy finish, are available in various colors and intricate designs, and are more affordable than hard enamel pins.

Why Are Hard Enamel Pins More Expensive?

Hard enamel pins cost more than soft ones because of their complex production process, higher-quality materials, and typically need a bulk or minimum order quantity. 

Why Are Businesses Investing in Hard Enamels?

Although hard enamel pins are more expensive, they’re durable and stylish for incorporating colorful logos and branding, making them an excellent choice for handing out at corporate events or trade shows. 

Why Are Soft and Hard Lapel Pins Gaining Popularity?

Lapel pins are stylish and timeless accessories that have recently regained popularity. They offer a simple way to help people support a cause or display their personality. They’re also excellent gifts or party favors. 

1D, 2D, and 3D Designs: What Are the Differences?

One-dimensional designs are simple and often a simple logo or wordmark. In contrast, 2D designs offer more creative freedom. On the other hand, 3D options are the most popular for complex and detailed designs that require highlights and shading for definition. They also have the height to make the design pop off the metal surface. 

What Should I Pick for Designs with Intricate Details?

Soft enamel pins work best for designs with many colors and intricate details because the enamel dries beneath the custom mold’s metal ridges to prevent hues from running and blending. They also allow for more quality control and can be more cost-effective because of less time in the oven. 

Does Soft Enamel Work Best for Vibrant Hues?

Although imitation enamel badges have richer colors than genuine ones, both still have beautiful hues. 

What’s My Best Option?

Your best pick depends on your needs and preferences. Hard enamel pins work best for a high-quality, durable badge with a smooth, glossy finish. On the other hand, soft ones are ideal if you want a traditional look or have a smaller budget. 

Pinning a Remarkable Impression

Soft and hard enamel pins help individuals and organizations creatively express themselves and promote a unique cause. You can determine your best option by considering your needs and preferences. 

If you need custom hard enamel pins for yourself or your organization in Simpsonville, SC, visit The PinGurus! We’re committed to helping customers be satisfied with our quality but affordable work. Submit your free artwork now and get a quote request!