Soft Enamel vs. Hard Enamel Pins: What You Need To Know

One of the most frequently asked questions about custom pins is the difference between soft and hard enamel pins. Both options offer unique advantages, making them suitable for various purposes.

Whether you are an event promoter or a business looking to create branded merchandise, understanding soft vs. hard enamel can help you make an informed decision.

This article explores the key differences, benefits, and ideal use cases for each type.

Soft Enamel Pins

Soft enamel pins are known for their detailed craftsmanship and vibrant, colorful designs. Here's a closer look at what makes them stand out:

Craftsmanship and Detail: Our die struck soft enamel pins blend meticulous craftsmanship with vibrant custom designs, ensuring your unique style stands out. The die striking process creates sharp details, and the soft enamel infusion adds a tactile, colorful dimension.

Finishing Options: To customize your soft enamel pin, choose from shiny or antique gold, silver, or bronze finishes. Other specialty finishes are also available.

Attachments: The standard attachment is a butterfly clutch, but other options like magnetic backings are also popular.

Durability: Soft enamel pins are durable and long-lasting, suitable for everyday wear, and maintain their quality over time.

Customization: The vibrant color palette and extensive customization options allow you to create a wearable work of art that leaves a lasting impression.

In summary, soft enamel pins offer a tactile feel with their recessed and raised areas, making them perfect for detailed designs and everyday use.

Hard Enamel Pins

Die struck hard enamel pins, also known as imitation cloisonné pins, are renowned for their smooth, polished finish and exceptional durability. Here's what you need to know about hard enamel pins:

Appearance and Process: Die struck hard enamel pins have a distinct, smooth appearance achieved through a labor-intensive hand-polishing process. They are baked at a high temperature, resulting in a beautiful, smooth surface.

Design and Customization: Custom hard enamel pins are an excellent choice for unique designs with simple or intricate details and colors. For designs requiring colorful gradients, silkscreening or printing on top of the hard enamel can be added.

Finishing Options: You can choose traditional gold, silver, bronze, or other custom finishes. Synthetic stones or glitter can add a touch of sparkle, ensuring your personalized enamel pins exceed your expectations.

Attachments: Like soft enamel pins, hard enamel pins have various attachment options, including butterfly clutches and magnetic backings.

Durability: While the manufacturing method is similar to soft enamel pins, hard enamel pins are more durable because they undergo a baking process. This process makes them ideal for awards or commemorative items with a high perceived value.

In summary, hard enamel pins offer a sleek, polished look and exceptional durability, making them a preferred choice for high-quality custom pins.

Choosing Between Soft vs. Hard Enamel Pins

While both types of custom pins are great options, you'll want to consider the following factors when deciding between soft vs. hard enamel:

Intended Use: Soft enamel pins may be an ideal choice if you're looking for an economical promotional item. However, hard enamel pins are an excellent option for promoting your organization in the best light due to their high-perceived value.

Budget: While both types are cost-effective, hard enamel pins are more expensive than soft enamel pins because of their high quality from the additional hand-polishing and baking process.

Finish Preferences: Soft enamel pins offer a textured finish, whereas hard enamel pins provide a smooth, polished look with a high perceived value because of their elegant appearance.

Creating Your Perfect Lapel Pin

Both soft and hard enamel pins have their unique benefits and ideal applications. Whether you opt for soft enamel or hard enamel, what truly makes a fantastic custom pin is a great design, which our experts can create for you. Contact us to get started on your custom pin project today!