Custom Enamel Pin Manufacturing Process
Created on 12.13
Custom Enamel Pin Manufacturing Process
What Are Custom Enamel Pins?
Custom enamel pins are metal badges filled with colored enamel and finished with premium plating. They are commonly used as:
- Brand merchandise
- Event giveaways
- Retail products
- Employee recognition items
- Collector pins
The two most popular styles in Western markets are soft enamel pins and hard enamel pins, each serving different aesthetic and budget needs.
Step 1: Design & Artwork Preparation
The process starts with your design concept. US and European buyers typically prefer clean lines, strong contrast, and precise details.
Accepted artwork formats include:
- AI, EPS, or PDF vector files (preferred)
- High-resolution PNG or JPG files
- Hand-drawn sketches (design assistance available)
Important design considerations:
- Standard pin sizes: 0.75", 1", 1.25", 1.5"
- Pantone color matching for brand consistency
- Minimum metal line thickness for durability
- Clear and readable text
Most professional manufacturers provide free digital proofs and revisions before mass production.
Step 2: Custom Mold Creation
After artwork approval, a custom mold is produced to define the pin’s shape and raised metal lines.
- CNC engraving ensures high accuracy
- One mold is required per design
- Mold fees are usually a one-time cost
Precision mold making is essential to meet the quality expectations of US and EU customers.
Step 3: Metal Forming (Die Casting or Stamping)
The metal base is created using one of two methods:
- Die casting
(zinc alloy) – ideal for complex shapes
- Stamping
(iron or brass) – suitable for simple, flat designs
This step forms the recessed areas that will later be filled with enamel colors.
Step 4: Polishing & Premium Plating
Pins are polished to remove sharp edges and then plated to achieve a refined finish.
Popular plating options in the US and Europe include:
- Gold
- Silver
- Nickel
- Black nickel
- Antique gold, silver, or bronze
High-quality plating improves corrosion resistance and overall product longevity.
Step 5: Enamel Filling (Soft vs. Hard Enamel)
Soft Enamel Pins
- Enamel is filled below raised metal lines
- Textured surface with vibrant colors
- Cost-effective and widely used for promotions
Hard Enamel Pins
- Enamel is polished flush with the metal surface
- Smooth, jewelry-like finish
- Preferred for retail and premium branding
Color filling is done carefully to ensure consistency with Pantone standards.
Step 6: Baking & Curing
After enamel application, pins are baked at controlled temperatures to cure the colors. This process:
- Enhances durability
- Prevents color fading
- Meets long-term use expectations in Western markets
Step 7: Back Attachments & Custom Add-ons
Buyers in the US and Europe often request functional and secure backing options, such as:
- Butterfly clutch
- Rubber clutch
- Deluxe locking clutch
- Magnetic backing
- Safety pin backing
Optional upgrades include glitter enamel, glow-in-the-dark effects, epoxy coating, or custom chains.
Step 8: Quality Control & Compliance
Strict quality control is essential for the US and EU markets. Each pin is inspected for:
- Accurate colors and plating
- Smooth enamel filling
- Secure attachments
- Surface defects or scratches
Reputable manufacturers follow international quality standards and conduct 100% inspections.
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