The Mustache Man custom enamel pin is more than just a collectible; it represents the pinnacle of professional custom enamel pins manufacturing. This meticulously designed piece is perfect for both dedicated collectors and brands seeking a premium balance between whimsical artwork and industrial excellence.

As a zinc alloy pin manufactured using established factory standards, Mustache Man demonstrates how detailed artwork can be transformed into a durable, high-quality collectible without compromising color accuracy or surface finish.

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Zinc Alloy Die-Casting: Structure, Durability, and Precision

This pin is manufactured using high-pressure zinc alloy die-casting, with a metal thickness of approximately 2.0 mm, which ensures a strong, stable structure capable of withstanding everyday wear. Zinc alloy is widely preferred in the custom enamel pin industry because it offers exceptional dimensional stability, excellent resistance to deformation, and the ability to faithfully reproduce intricate design elements from the original artwork. Every curve, star, and decorative detail is carefully sculpted during the die-casting process, ensuring that the final pin perfectly mirrors the artist’s vision.

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Hard Enamel and Precision Printing for Accurate Color Representation

The Mustache Man pin employs a hybrid coloring technique that combines hard enamel filling with precision printing, which allows for optimal color control across different areas of the design. Hard enamel is applied to larger regions to provide a smooth, glass-like surface with consistent color coverage, resulting in a polished and professional finish. Precision printing is used for the more delicate facial features, subtle gradients, and tiny decorative elements, ensuring that even the smallest details are accurately represented. This combination of techniques guarantees that the pin maintains both visual clarity and uniformity across large production runs, which is particularly important for character-centric designs.

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Pearlescent and Opal Effects: Adding Depth, Glow, and Visual Interest

To further enhance the visual depth and texture, the Mustache Man pin incorporates both pearlescent powder and opal glitter effects, applied in distinct layers to create a harmonious balance. Pearlescent powder adds a soft, satin-like shimmer, which subtly enhances the color without overpowering the overall design. This effect is ideal for larger areas where a refined and elegant appearance is desired. In contrast, opal glitter provides a more dynamic sparkle, catching the light from multiple angles to create gentle color shifts and eye-catching highlights. By combining these two techniques, the pin achieves a multi-dimensional visual effect, giving stars, bows, and other decorative details a subtle, magical glow that enhances the overall character illustration.

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Backstamp, Hardware, and Secure Attachment

The backside of the pin features a custom engraved backstamp, which serves as both a mark of authenticity and a reinforcement of brand identity. This attention to detail underscores the professional standards applied throughout the production process. Two industrial-grade black rubber clutches are used to secure the pin in place, preventing rotation or accidental loss when worn or displayed. These clutches provide both convenience and stability, ensuring that collectors can enjoy their pin with confidence.

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Protective Packaging for Collector-Grade Quality

Each Mustache Man pin is individually packaged in a PVC sleeve, with additional bubble wrap protection to minimize surface contact during transit. This careful packaging approach ensures that the hard enamel, printing, and decorative effects remain pristine, while also preserving the integrity of the metal plating and delicate pearlescent and opal finishes. By prioritizing both protection and presentation, these pins arrive in a condition that is ready for display or gifting.

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A Custom Enamel Pin Designed for Quality and Detail

Mustache Man represents what modern custom enamel pin manufacturing can achieve when material selection, coloring techniques, and decorative finishes are carefully balanced. By maintaining meticulous attention to detail at every stage of production, Demonstrates how high-quality custom enamel pins can be transformed from a simple concept into a collectible masterpiece. Whether for branding or retail, our custom enamel pins set a new standard for excellence.

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Please feel free to contact us.

Email：Jin@hipins.com

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/huainpromos/

When ordering custom pins, many buyers notice a confusing reality:
two pins with the same design, size, and colors can feel completely different once they arrive.

One pin looks refined and professional.
The other feels rough, uneven, or visually flat.

This difference is not random. From a manufacturer’s point of view, custom pin quality is shaped by a series of decisions made long before production is completed.

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1.Quality Is Decided Before Production Begins

Many people assume quality is created on the factory floor.
In reality, it starts even earlier — during the artwork evaluation stage.

Before making a mold, an experienced manufacturer carefully reviews the design and asks questions such as:

• Are the lines thick and clear enough for clean stamping?
• Which details should be raised, recessed, or simplified?
• Will the chosen colors work well with the selected metal plating?
• Is this design better suited for imitation enamel, soft enamel, or a more 3D metal style?

Skipping this step can lead to a design that looks workable on screen but shows limitations during production. Good pins are not just produced — they are understood correctly from the start.

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2.Tooling Precision Sets the Quality Limit

The metal base is the foundation of every custom pin.

Tooling accuracy determines whether lines are sharp or soft, edges are clean or rough, and details appear crisp or blurred. Once the base is flawed, no amount of polishing or coloring can fully correct it.

High-quality pins typically feature:

• Sharp, well-defined lines
• Consistent metal thickness
• Clean, smooth edges
• Even and balanced recessed areas

Rushed or cost-cut tooling limits the final quality — regardless of how much effort follows. The base defines the maximum quality a pin can reach.

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3.How Coloring Determines the Final Finish

Color filling may look simple, but it is highly experience-dependent.

Skilled workers know:

• Exactly how much enamel to apply
• When to stop before overflow occurs
• How colors settle after baking
• How to correct small imperfections without leaving marks

Even with identical Pantone codes, pins from different factories can look noticeably different. That difference comes from hands-on experience, not machinery.rt.

4.How Plating Enhances Custom Pin Appearance

Many quality differences are subtle and appear in the details, such as:

• Whether polishing is even and consistent
• Whether edges feel smooth in hand
• Whether plating is stable, bright, and durable
• Whether surfaces are properly cleaned before color filling

These steps may not drastically change appearance but completely affect feel. Clients may not explain why one pin feels better, but they will notice immediately.

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5.Why Quality Control Matters for Custom Products

Different manufacturers have different definitions of what is “acceptable.”

High standards include:

• Reworking uneven color fills
• Removing pins with minor plating flaws
• Rejecting products that are “almost good enough”

This approach increases time and cost but ensures consistent quality. Factories that never reject pins may ship faster but rarely achieve stable, premium results.

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Final Thoughts on Custom Pin Quality

Differences in custom pin quality are never caused by a single factor. They result from design evaluation, tooling precision, coloring techniques, finishing details, and quality control standards working together.

Understanding these factors helps buyers make better decisions and explains why pins that look similar on screen can feel very different in reality.

True quality is built through experience — and it is never accidental.

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Please feel free to contact us.

Email：Jin@hipins.com

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/huainpromos/

At Hipins, we don’t just make pins—we bring iconic moments to life in metal and color. One of our recent standout projects was a custom pin commissioned by a dedicated anime merchandise collector, featuring two beloved characters from Naruto: Sasuke and Sakura.

The final piece? A dazzling, oversized pin with layered design, gold plating, glitter effects, and storytelling panels integrated into a single unified frame. The road to completion wasn’t easy—but for Hipins, challenges are opportunities to prove our craftsmanship and commitment.

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Client Vision: Capturing Emotion in Metal

The client approached us with a bold idea: a large-format pin that would portray Sakura embracing Sasuke, surrounded by vivid, emotional comic-style panels. It wasn’t just about the characters—it was about translating emotion, nostalgia, and fandom into a wearable work of art.

The initial sketch showed overlapping elements, depth-rich backgrounds, multiple dialogue bubbles, and delicate facial expressions. From the very first draft, it was clear this pin would stretch the limits of both scale and detail.

Our first step? Turn imagination into precision-ready artwork.

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Detailed Artwork and Engineering Challenges

This was not a typical enamel pin. It featured:

• Multiple layered sections
• Varying heights for raised and recessed metal
• Fine-line comic panels
• Integrated glitter zones
• Smooth yet bold gold-plated outlines

Our design team worked hand-in-hand with the client to define which parts should be raised, which areas would hold glitter, and how to preserve manga-like emotion in each expression.

Several parts had to be redrawn, rebalanced, and resized so the entire piece would remain manufacturable without losing character clarity. We also adjusted certain elements to ensure that they wouldn’t be swallowed during plating or printing.

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Molding and Sample Corrections: Real Collaboration

Once the design was approved, we began mold creation. Due to the sheer size and complexity, we used reinforced steel molds with carefully plotted height variations.

After the first mold test, we noticed minor loss of sharpness in smaller panels. The solution? We quickly revised the mold depth and added enhanced borders to preserve key dialogue scenes.

The client was involved throughout, reviewing:

• Mold preview photos
• Engraving sample shots
• Structural edits

Every piece of feedback was quickly implemented.

This phase involved two rounds of sampling—but we believe the best results come from collaboration, not shortcuts.

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Base Production and Gold Plating: A Gleaming Foundation

With the mold finalized, we began base pin production. Each blank was cast using durable zinc alloy to withstand the weight and detail. The next stage was gold plating—an elegant, radiant finish chosen to offset the pin’s intense pink and violet hues.

Our plating technicians ensured a smooth and consistent gold tone that wouldn’t dull under epoxy or glitter. Every batch underwent manual inspection to avoid bubbling, discoloration, or dull edges.

This isn’t just gold for looks—it forms the foundation of the visual impact.

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Glitter and Depth: Elevating the Visual Experience

To amplify the pin’s magical energy, we introduced glitter powder into select background zones, particularly the swirling pink vortex behind the characters.

This effect added sparkle without overpowering the print, and it created a shimmering movement when the pin caught the light—especially useful for collector photos or display lighting.

Glitter was sealed under epoxy to prevent flaking and preserve clarity, making the pin not only eye-catching but durable.

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Final Assembly and Quality Control

Every element of the pin was precisely aligned during printing and epoxy coating. Given the pin’s large size and multi-panel layout, even a small shift would ruin the composition.

We implemented a multi-stage inspection process:

1. Visual check for plating and outline quality
2. Color proofing against original design
3. Manual glitter consistency check
4. Final shape and pinback alignment

Only the best went into final packing.

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The Result: One Pin, Countless Emotions

When the client received the finished pins, the feedback was glowing. Not only did the product reflect the original concept, it exceeded expectations in depth, color vibrance, and overall emotional impact.

They shared the pin on social platforms where it quickly gained attention from other fans, with many expressing interest in similar designs.

It’s a perfect example of how Hipins turns complex ideas into collectible art—no matter the scale.

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What Makes Hipins Stand Out

• Expertise in Complex Projects: Whether it’s multiple layers, glitter, or oversized formats, we bring precision to complexity.
• Real-Time Collaboration: Clients are involved in every phase—mold, sample, plating—ensuring alignment at each step.
• Full-Service Project Handling: From idea to packaging, we manage artwork, materials, timelines, and feedback loops.
• Creative Enhancement: We don’t just follow instructions—we suggest improvements that make your design even better.

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FAQs

Q: Can you produce large pins like this regularly?
A: Absolutely. We specialize in complex and oversized pins and have the equipment and team to support large-scale creative projects.

Q: Does glitter fade or fall off?
A: No. We seal all glitter layers with a protective epoxy coating, ensuring durability and long-lasting brilliance.

Q: What happens if I need to revise the design mid-way?
A: No problem. We’re flexible and responsive—we offer sampling, feedback revisions, and reproofing if needed. Your satisfaction is our mission.

Q: How long does a project like this take?
A: Depending on complexity, 3–4 weeks including revisions. For urgent orders, we offer free rush service.

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At Hipins, we don’t shy away from the hard pins—the layered, the glitter-filled, the oversized. We embrace them. Because behind every “difficult” pin is a story worth telling—and a customer worth impressing.

At Hipins, every pin tells a story—and this one is a tale of precision, patience, and artistic collaboration.One of our returning customers recently reached out with a special vision: a custom pin featuring a highly detailed character design, framed in a unique diamond shape. From the moment we received the concept, we knew this project would be something truly extraordinary—not only in visual appeal, but in the level of craftsmanship it would demand.

A Vision with Style: The Client’s Concept

The client approached us with a sketch of a fantasy-style character—elegant, powerful, and full of emotion. The character had silver hair tied in intricate braids, piercing green eyes, and wore finely detailed armor. What made the design stand out immediately was the combination of elven elegance and knightly strength, captured within a perfectly symmetrical diamond-shaped border.

They requested a printed finish to preserve the fine linework and shading in the character’s face and armor—something traditional enamel could not achieve without compromising detail.

Their vision was clear, but the technical path to achieving it required careful planning, consistent updates, and expert execution.

Design Communication: The Heart of the Process

At Hipins, we believe great pins start with even greater communication. Our dedicated account manager worked closely with the client from day one—reviewing sketches, offering suggestions on line weight, color separation, and how the design would translate in print and metal.

We provided a full digital artwork preview for approval, along with multiple revisions at no cost. Our team also proposed subtle improvements to the diamond border layout and color balancing in the background pattern, helping the overall design “pop” even more.

The client appreciated our initiative and attention to detail, and together we finalized a design that was both visually impactful and manufacturing-ready.

Precision Molding: The First Technical Milestone

Once the artwork was approved, our molding team got to work. Due to the complexity of the diamond shape and fine interior details, we crafted a custom mold specifically for this pin.

At this stage, even a fraction of a millimeter matters—our engineers ran multiple simulations to ensure that the borders would hold up under pressure, and that the character’s facial contours wouldn’t lose definition during the stamping process.

After rigorous mold testing, we moved forward to produce the first batch of raw pin bases—known as “blanks.”

Blanks and Electroplating: Craft Meets Metal

The blank pins were shaped, trimmed, and prepared for plating. For this design, the client selected a polished gold finish to complement the warm tones in the background and the cool silver of the character’s hair and armor. The gold added a sense of luxury and framed the design beautifully.

Throughout this stage, our customer service team sent detailed updates, including photos of the blanks and sample plating results. We kept the client informed at every step, ensuring full transparency.

Printing the Design: Detail Comes to Life

The printed technique used on this pin allowed us to retain all the intricate lines and soft gradients in the character’s face and costume. Our UV printing process ensured high-resolution accuracy and color fidelity.

This was not just printing—it was precision layering. Every hue, every highlight, and every shadow was carefully matched to the original artwork. A protective epoxy coating was added to seal the print and give the pin a glossy, glass-like finish without losing detail.

Final Assembly and Quality Checks

Once the pins were fully printed and coated, they went through our strict quality control process. We inspected each one by hand, ensuring there were no imperfections in print alignment, border sharpness, or plating finish.

Satisfied with the result, we packed the order securely and prepared it for shipping—accompanied by a full project breakdown, QC sheet, and tracking information for the customer’s peace of mind.

Customer Feedback: A Pin Worth Sharing

Upon receiving the finished pins, the client’s response was immediate and enthusiastic. They praised the clarity of the print, the elegance of the border, and the overall impression of the final piece. Most importantly, they emphasized how smoothly the entire process went—from concept to delivery.

Within just days of sharing the pin with their audience, it became a fan favorite, even selling out during a small launch event.

What Sets Hipins Apart

This case is a great reflection of what makes Hipins different:

• Deep Communication: From sketch review to final shipping, our team is always available for feedback, updates, and detailed answers.
• Custom Engineering: We create specialized molds and plating solutions tailored to your pin’s structure and design.
• Advanced Printing Capabilities: Our UV print ensures no detail is lost, especially when designs require facial features, gradients, or comic-style linework.
• Full-Service Project Management: You’re not left guessing—we provide artwork previews, plating samples, step-by-step updates, and professional documentation.

FAQs

Q: What’s the advantage of using printing for a pin like this?
A: Printing allows for ultra-fine detail, gradient shading, and subtle linework that traditional enamel methods can’t capture. It’s ideal for character faces, comic art, or intricate costume patterns.

Q: Can I request a custom shape like this diamond style?
A: Absolutely! We can make molds in almost any shape. Just send your idea or sketch and we’ll take care of the rest.

Q: How long does the full process take?
A: Typically 2–3 weeks depending on the complexity, with full updates at every stage. Rush orders are available if needed.

Q: Will I see previews before production?
A: Yes. We offer free digital artwork previews and unlimited revisions before mold production begins.

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At Hipins, our mission is simple: turn your vision into a pin that makes people stop and stare. Whether it’s fantasy characters, original art, or fan-favorite designs—we’re here to craft pins that leave a lasting impression.

At Hipins, custom pins are more than just a product—they’re the result of trust, collaboration, and precision engineering. In this project spotlight, we’re proud to share the story of a recent pin we produced for a client who came to us with clear expectations, a sharp eye for detail, and a passion for quality.

This particular pin featured recessed metal areas (concave detailing), a sanded texture finish, and custom printing elements—a sophisticated combination that requires both technical skill and aesthetic judgment. But what made this project truly stand out wasn’t just the craftsmanship—it was the strong communication and mutual dedication that powered every step of the journey.

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Initial Discussions: Asking the Right Questions, Giving the Right Answers

The project began with a series of detailed conversations between our team and the client. From the very first inquiry, it was clear that the client had a strong vision. They knew what they wanted in terms of surface texture, depth of recessed areas, and the precise color alignment for the printed elements.

Instead of simply quoting based on a static design, our team walked the client through every possible material and process. We answered technical questions like:

• How deep can the recessed areas be without losing clarity?
• Will the sandblasted texture impact how the colors appear?
• How to ensure the printed area doesn’t interfere with the texture?

Through a series of mockups, samples, and visual breakdowns, we helped the client make informed decisions. That early transparency built a relationship grounded in trust—something we consider essential at Hipins.

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Crafting the Pin: Layer by Layer, Step by Step

Once the design was finalized, we began production. This pin required three core techniques:

🔹 1. Recessed Metal Detailing (Concave Areas)

We used die-striking to create recessed elements in specific areas of the pin, giving the design a layered feel. These concave sections provided space for printed details while also offering contrast against the raised metal outlines.

Recessed areas are notoriously unforgiving—if the mold is even slightly misaligned, the effect is ruined. That’s why our engineering team invested extra time in mold calibration and test strikes to get everything just right.

🔹 2. Sandblasted Texture (Sand Finish)

The recessed sections were then sandblasted to give a matte, slightly roughened texture. This “sanded” effect contrasts beautifully with the polished raised areas, enhancing the visual depth and tactile appeal of the pin.

We carefully controlled the blasting pressure and grain size to ensure the texture was noticeable but not overpowering—a detail the client specifically requested.

🔹 3. Custom Printing

After the sandblasting, the pin moved into the printing phase. Printed colors were applied with pinpoint accuracy onto designated zones within the recessed areas. This required perfect registration, as even a 0.1mm shift could affect the overall balance of the artwork.

Using high-resolution print heads and color calibration software, our technicians ensured the inks remained vibrant and durable even on textured surfaces.

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Full Process Transparency: Photo Updates and Live Support

During the production, we kept the client involved every step of the way. For each major process—molding, stamping, texture treatment, printing, and plating—we captured high-resolution photos and shared progress updates.

This level of transparency not only reassured the client but also allowed them to provide real-time feedback. For instance, when we shared photos of the textured surfaces, the client requested a slightly softer sand finish—and we adjusted immediately.

Our production and service teams worked hand-in-hand to ensure nothing was missed. Every question was answered, every concern addressed.

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Client Satisfaction: A Solid Foundation for Future Collaboration

When the final batch of pins was delivered, the client’s response was clear and enthusiastic:

“This was one of the best custom manufacturing experiences I’ve had. Your team was professional, thorough, and always responsive. The pin turned out exactly as I hoped—and I’ll definitely return for more projects in the future.”

To us, this is the ultimate measure of success—not just delivering a beautiful product, but building long-term relationships through exceptional service.

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Hipins Quality Promise: What Sets Us Apart

This project reflects the values we uphold in every order, regardless of size or complexity:

• Detailed pre-production consultations
• Real-time production updates with visuals
• Customized finishing options (sanding, texture, printing, etc.)
• Strict quality inspection at every stage
• Responsive, human communication

Every pin is an opportunity to demonstrate our dedication, and every client is a partner—not just a customer.

At Hipins, we believe that every pin—no matter the size—deserves to be crafted with care, precision, and a deep respect for detail. That philosophy was once again proven in a recent project for one of our returning clients: a 1.58-inch custom pin featuring soft enamel combined with printing techniques, finished with luxurious gold plating, and delivered in PVC sleeves with bubble wrap protection.

Though compact in size, this pin reflects everything we value at Hipins: craftsmanship, consistency, and customer satisfaction.

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Design & Artwork: Translating Vision into Precision

As with every custom project, our collaboration started with a detailed exchange of design ideas and sketches. The client had a clear concept in mind—sharp lines, vivid contrast, and a glossy golden finish—but also needed guidance on how to bring the idea to life within the limited space of 1.58 inches.

Our in-house design team stepped in with a detailed digital rendering, optimizing the visual hierarchy to maintain clarity at a small scale. We also ensured the lines were bold enough to support soft enamel filling without compromising detail—especially important since this pin also included printed elements for finer decoration and shading.

Each artwork file was triple-checked before mold creation, ensuring color separations, stroke widths, and print zones aligned perfectly. The client’s feedback? “Exactly what I imagined.”

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Mold Making & Die Striking: Precision at Every Turn

Once the artwork was finalized, our technicians moved forward with mold fabrication. Despite the small size, the die required a high level of precision—particularly because the pin used dual processes (enamel and printing) that demand perfect alignment.

The die-struck base was created using high-strength steel, and each blank (also known as the “raw pin”) was carefully punched and deburred. This step is where decades of craftsmanship show their value: no rough edges, no burrs, just clean and crisp outlines ready for finishing.

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Enameling & Printing: A Blend of Texture and Color

With the raw pins prepared, our production moved on to soft enamel filling. Each recessed area was filled with vibrant enamel, then baked to harden and set. Unlike hard enamel, soft enamel gives a slight texture to the surface, offering visual depth and tactile interest—a great fit for this client’s design.

But the star of the show was the additional printing layer applied after enameling. This allowed for intricate details like highlights and shadows that enamel alone could not achieve. Using our precision printing equipment, we aligned the artwork with exacting care, creating an image that truly popped.

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Gold Plating: Adding a Luxe Finish

To elevate the pin’s overall appearance, we used gold electroplating to give the metal surface a rich, warm sheen. This not only enhanced the contrast with the enamel and printed elements but also added a sense of value and professionalism.

At Hipins, all plating is done in-house using environmentally responsible methods. Our plating baths are monitored daily to ensure color consistency and durability—especially important for small pins, where minor flaws are more easily noticed.

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Inspection, Assembly & Packaging: Because Every Detail Matters

After the final polish, every pin went through our multi-stage inspection process, where we check for:

• Color accuracy
• Print alignment
• Enamel smoothness
• Plating uniformity
• Backside finish and pin post integrity

Only after passing inspection were the pins assembled with high-quality butterfly clutches, then packed into individual PVC sleeves with bubble protection to prevent any scratches during shipment.

Though the project involved a relatively small quantity, we maintained the same rigorous standards we apply to large-scale orders.

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Client Feedback: Quality That Speaks for Itself

Upon delivery, the client responded with genuine excitement:

“I’ve worked with a few pin suppliers before, but the attention to detail here blew me away. From the plating to the print—everything was flawless. I’ll definitely be coming back for more.”

This kind of feedback fuels us to keep pushing the boundaries of what we can achieve with small-format pins.

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Innovation Spotlight: Micro-Scale Storytelling

Inspired by this project, our team also developed an internal case study on maximizing visual storytelling in small spaces. We challenged ourselves to create a 1.2-inch pin featuring transparent enamel layered over a printed background, giving a “stained glass” effect. Though smaller than most pins we make, it successfully conveyed a complex scene: a fox curled under a crescent moon, with fine printed stars twinkling behind translucent enamel.

The success of this test pin led to a broader initiative at Hipins: exploring new hybrid techniques that combine print, enamel, and metal sculpting—even on the smallest surfaces.

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Why Small Pins Deserve Big Attention

In the world of customization, size should never determine effort. A small pin worn on a collar or bag still carries a story, a message, or a brand. It might represent a fandom, a cause, or a company’s identity.

At Hipins, we approach every project—big or small—with the same commitment:

• Expert guidance at every step
• Fast, responsive communication
• Factory-direct pricing
• Reliable quality assurance
• On-time global delivery

Because we know that in the world of custom pins, every millimeter counts.

At Hipins, we are constantly inspired by the bold visions our clients bring to life. In this case, a long-term creative client approached us with a request for a custom pin that would push the limits of standard design—a diamond-shaped pin featuring a character whose body intentionally breaks through the frame. The goal: to create a strong sense of depth and dimension in a 2D medium.

We were excited by the concept and ready to meet the challenge with our signature combination of precision manufacturing, flexible design support, and reliable communication.

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Design and Production Specifications

The design was centered on a diamond-shaped base, a departure from traditional circular or rectangular pins. Within the diamond frame sat a highly stylized character illustration, with select portions of the figure—such as hair, arms, and accessories—extending beyond the border.

From a manufacturing perspective, this posed a few unique challenges:

• The artwork needed to be carefully balanced so the extensions did not create fragile or breakable points.
• Mold engraving had to be hyper-accurate, as misalignment would distort the edge/overlap relationship.
• Coloring required sharp contrast and clarity to highlight the foreground and background separation.

We selected die-struck iron with soft enamel for this project. The iron base ensured structural strength for the extensions, while the soft enamel allowed for vibrant color separation and a semi-raised texture that enhanced the dimensional illusion.

To further emphasize the sense of depth, the client requested two-layer plating, using black nickel for the base and polished gold for the character outline. The result was a strong contrast that visually “lifted” the character from the pin surface.

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Communication Process: Bringing the Vision to Life

From day one, communication was key. The client came to us with a rough sketch and a high-level concept. Our in-house design team worked closely with them to refine the layout, optimize the silhouette, and provide multiple iterations of vector files until everything aligned perfectly.

Some of the collaborative checkpoints included:

• Suggestions to thicken the overlapping elements (e.g., arms or hair strands) to avoid weak points
• Balancing the proportions between the diamond background and the “break-out” parts
• Adding a thin inner border line to enhance visual separation

Throughout the process, we offered free design modifications and rapid file revisions, always responding within 24 hours. Once the design was finalized, we moved to mold engraving and sent high-resolution renderings for approval before starting physical production.

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Post-Production and Client Feedback

The final product was exactly what the client had envisioned—and more.

The extensions beyond the frame looked dynamic and powerful. The polished gold outlines created a beautiful “pop” effect, while the background enamel brought stability and color contrast. When held in hand, the pin immediately gave off a three-dimensional impression, even though it remained a single-layer piece.

The client was thrilled:

“This was one of our boldest ideas yet, and you brought it to life perfectly. The quality, the shine, the depth—it’s even better than the artwork suggested.”

The pins sold out quickly after launch, becoming a standout piece in the client’s collection.

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Innovative Touches from the Client

We love when our clients push creative boundaries, and this project was full of great innovations:

• Breaking the frame: Letting the character artwork extend beyond the border added a visual tension that captured attention immediately.
• Multi-tone plating: Using contrasting plating finishes to separate foreground and background visually without adding physical layers.
• Positional storytelling: The character’s pose was designed to interact with the frame, adding storytelling to the shape itself.

These elements helped set the pin apart from traditional designs and demonstrated how thoughtful design choices can elevate a product’s appeal.

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FAQs: Behind the Scenes of a Bold Design

Q1: Can extending artwork beyond the pin shape cause production problems?
Not if handled correctly. We use reinforced mold lines and recommend minimum thickness requirements to prevent weak areas. Our design team always reviews for structural stability.

Q2: Is dual plating more expensive or time-consuming?
Yes, slightly—but the visual impact is significant. We’ll advise if your design is suitable and offer plating options to fit your budget.

Q3: Do you offer advice during the design stage?
Absolutely. We provide free vector optimization, professional suggestions, and unlimited revisions during pre-production.

At Hipins, we thrive on craftsmanship, challenge, and customer trust. When a valued client approached us with a complex custom pin design—demanding in both structure and detail—we knew it was the kind of project that would let our expertise shine.

With zero margin for error, tight timelines, and high aesthetic standards, this project required flawless coordination between design, production, and quality control. And yet, we not only met the challenge head-on—we delivered a perfect sample on the first attempt and completed the full order on time, with no revisions needed.

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A Design That Demanded Precision

The design itself was highly intricate. It involved detailed metalwork, color separation in fine areas, and a surface that had to be flawlessly polished. Any deviation—even by a fraction—would affect the overall look and feel.

Before anything went into production, our technical team carefully analyzed the vector artwork and ran structural simulations to identify potential risks. Communication with the client remained close and transparent during this stage, allowing us to fine-tune expectations and avoid costly back-and-forth later.

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Crafting a Flawless Base

Once the artwork was finalized, we moved into mold development. Using advanced CNC engraving, our engineers crafted a precision mold that captured even the smallest elements of the design. These molds were used to press the base metal blanks—the structural foundation of the pins.

At Hipins, we believe the success of a pin starts with the blank. A clean, accurate base ensures that all subsequent processes—coloring, plating, polishing—build upon a reliable foundation. Our team inspected each batch for line clarity, shape integrity, and edge definition before moving forward.

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Color Accuracy and Control

One of the most critical elements of this pin was the color work. Multiple tones needed to be filled into compact spaces with absolute accuracy. To achieve this, we used a hybrid coloring system: semi-automated filling machines for consistency, combined with manual touch-ups by skilled technicians for intricate areas.

We also implemented a double-verification system. Colors were checked against Pantone standards, then rechecked after curing to ensure they hadn’t shifted in tone or brightness. In this case, the client approved our sample color board immediately, which kept the schedule moving smoothly.

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Polishing for Perfection

After the coloring stage, each pin was carefully polished using water grinding techniques followed by manual buffing. This step enhances not only the tactile quality but also the visual impact of the final product. For this project, we adopted a high-precision water grinding method using ultra-fine grit, to preserve the detailed contours while achieving a mirror-smooth surface.

This extra care paid off. The final pins had a sleek, luxurious finish that elevated the entire design and emphasized the precision of the stamped metalwork.

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Production at Scale—Without Compromise

After the sample received instant approval from the client, we proceeded to full-scale production. One of our key strengths is speed without compromise. Thanks to our in-house manufacturing capabilities, we were able to compress the production timeline without cutting corners.

Dedicated quality control checkpoints were set up across multiple stages, including pre-plating inspections, post-color curing, and final product audits. Every pin was individually packed with protective film and labeled for shipment tracking.

The result? A 100% on-time delivery with zero reported defects.

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Going Beyond Expectations

This project wasn’t just about producing a complex pin. It was about reinforcing a long-term client relationship through consistency, reliability, and precision.

What made this project stand out:

• One-shot sample approval: The client confirmed the sample on first delivery—no revisions, no delays.
• Full production without errors: Every piece matched the original sample in color, finish, and quality.
• Real-time updates: We kept the client informed at every step, from mold completion to final packing.

And behind the scenes, we took the opportunity to innovate further.

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Innovation That Builds Trust

For this order, we piloted an internal tracking method to monitor each batch’s coloring process. Every enamel fill had a batch number, technician signature, and process timestamp. This innovation not only ensured real-time quality control but also enhanced traceability—something our wholesale clients greatly value for consistency in recurring orders.

We also updated our polishing SOPs based on the success of the ultra-fine method used in this project, and we’ve since integrated that into our best practices for all high-detail pins.

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Client Feedback That Says It All

The feedback we received was simple but powerful:
“Everything we hoped for—and more. Perfect sample, smooth communication, and flawless delivery. Hipins always delivers.”

This is what we aim for in every project: not just a product, but a professional experience that makes our clients’ jobs easier—and their brands stand out.

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Why Choose Hipins for Complex Custom Pins?

✅ Over 17 years of experience in precision metal gift manufacturing
✅ In-house design, mold-making, coloring, polishing, and packaging
✅ Fast turnarounds without compromising quality
✅ Free artwork & unlimited edits
✅ Factory-direct pricing and responsive 1-on-1 support
✅ Shipment tracking, real-time updates, and guaranteed on-time delivery

At Hipins, we thrive on bringing the most intricate visions to life. This case study showcases a recently completed project for a valued repeat customer—a striking dual-variant custom pin set with refined details, advanced finishes, and a highly efficient production cycle.

Without requiring any sampling, the client trusted us to move directly into mass production, based solely on artwork approval. The two versions—referred to as Variant A and Variant B—share the same structure but differ in color schemes and quantities. This blog will walk you through the project from design specs and communication flow to final delivery and client satisfaction.

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1. Design and Production Specifications

This pin design features a dynamic and elegant witch illustration with flowing hair, a detailed dress, and fine outlines that required both artistic sensitivity and precise engineering.

🧩 Structure Overview:

• Material: Hard enamel on zinc alloy base
• Plating: Gold
• Attachment: Dual rubber clutches
• Backstamp: Custom logo with Witching Studio branding
• Size: Approximately 4 inches in height
• Variants:
  • Variant A: 140 pcs
  • Variant B: 30 pcs

🎨 Color & Effects:Both A and B versions used a common mold but diverged in surface finish and color combinations. Key effects included:

• Pearlescent gradient in specific enamel zones (non-mixed layering)
• Transparent sandblasting applied to selected recessed areas
• Silkscreen printing for fine line detailing and visual enhancement
• Partial glitter fills for visual balance (particularly in Variant A)

We worked with over 15 individual Pantone color codes across both variants, requiring detailed mapping to ensure clarity and vibrancy after baking.

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2. Communication Process

What made this project truly efficient was the streamlined communication between our design team and the client.

🗂️ Step-by-step breakdown:

• Artwork Confirmation:
  The client submitted a finalized design file with specified effects, color codes, and desired placements for glitter, sandblast, and gradients. This was especially helpful in aligning expectations early on.
• Effect Feasibility Check:
  Our engineering team reviewed the request to apply a pearlescent gradient without blending colors. We confirmed the technical feasibility and suggested slight layering adjustments to ensure smooth transitions and reduce overflows.
• Mock Visualization & Feedback:
  Even without a physical sample, we provided enhanced mockups showing how pearl gradients and transparent sandblast zones would appear after baking and polishing.
  → The client approved these visualizations immediately, citing full confidence in our process due to previous orders.
• Backside Layout Approval:
  We aligned the backstamp positioning and ensured rubber clutch holes did not interfere with the logo or structural support zones.

This high-efficiency communication model allowed us to complete all confirmations within 48 hours.

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3. Production Execution.

🔩 Mold Manufacturing:

We used CNC engraving to create a shared mold capable of capturing the ultra-fine lines in the hair, dress folds, and hand pose. To protect design integrity under mass production, we implemented a multi-level etching strategy that separated deep-fill areas (for glitter or sandblast) from shallow decorative regions.

🎨 Coloring and Effects Application:

• Pearl Gradient:
  We used our step-feed non-mix method to apply the pearlescent gradient. It’s a technique where pigment is laid down in segments using precision droppers, avoiding any swirl or overlap. Baking followed immediately to lock in the particles.
• Transparent Sandblast:
  Applied to recessed areas using clear enamel infused with matte agents and micro glass powder. Once hardened, it formed a frosted window effect that enhanced depth without overpowering surrounding colors.
• Silkscreen and Glitter Details:
  Silkscreen outlines were manually aligned and screen-printed in high-contrast black for clarity. On Variant A, micro-glitter was embedded in select dress areas to mimic magical sparkles.

🧽 Polishing and QC:

• Manual high-gloss polishing was conducted on raised metal outlines.
• Each pin underwent 3-layer QC, focusing on color separation, glitter dispersion, and logo clarity.

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4. Post-Production and Client Feedback

The batch was completed ahead of schedule, with careful packaging using individual PVC bags and bubble protection. Final shipping included a full inventory sheet, backstamp proofs, and production notes.

Upon receiving the products, the client shared the following feedback:

“This is the best pin batch I’ve ever produced. The pearl effects are exactly how I imagined, and the transparent sections are beautiful in natural light. Zero defects. Thank you for making this flawless!”

They also reported that most of the Variant A pins sold out within the first 48 hours of launch—solid proof that great production turns into commercial success.

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What Makes This Pin Project Stand Out?

• No Sampling Needed: Complete trust enabled direct production, saving time and cost.
• Complex Craft Integration: Successfully combined multiple advanced techniques on one shared mold.
• Visual Impact: The balance between glitter, pearl, and transparency made the design pop.
• Repeat Client Relationship: Years of cooperation led to effortless execution and mutual growth.

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FAQs

Q1: Can I order two pin variants using one mold?
Yes. As long as the structural design remains the same, color variations can be handled on the same mold.

Q2: What is a pearl gradient effect?
It’s a color fill using pearlescent powder that gradually changes tone without blending. We use step-feed techniques for clarity.

Q3: How is transparent sandblast created?
It involves applying matte-treated clear enamel to recessed zones, forming a soft, frosted texture beneath the surface.

At Hipins, trust is not built overnight—it’s forged through consistent quality, reliable service, and shared success. In this latest case study, we proudly present a project that exemplifies the power of long-term collaboration: a repeat customer placed a large-volume order of two custom pins without requesting any sampling. This level of trust didn’t happen by chance—it’s the result of years of seamless cooperation, outstanding results, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

Project Overview: Two Variants, One Seamless Process

The order included two distinct pin designs—Model A and Model B—both sharing the same structure but differing in color palette and finish. Unique effects were used in both versions, including:

• Pearlescent powder gradient (non-mixed)
• Transparent sandblast fill

Thanks to our streamlined internal processes and experienced team, the order was completed swiftly, and the final product exceeded expectations—both in visual appeal and production speed.

Let’s take you behind the scenes of how we made it happen, from mold making to the final boxed pins.

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1. Mold Creation: The Blueprint of Precision

As no sampling phase was required, our production process began directly with mold making. Since we had previously worked with this client, we already had a deep understanding of their brand standards and design expectations. However, the new design still required technical accuracy, especially because two separate color schemes would rely on the same base mold.

Innovative approach:
To avoid minor misalignment or inconsistencies across the A and B versions, our engineers implemented a double-verification process during CNC mold engraving. Using 3D software simulation, we ensured that each groove and level of relief would accommodate both color sets without spillage or imbalance.

We then hardened and polished the mold with our precision heat treatment techniques, ensuring long-lasting durability for large-volume production. The mold was ready in under 48 hours.

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2. Coloring: Precision Gradient with Pearlescent Powder

The coloring stage was where the pins truly began to shine—literally. Both pins used pearlescent powder, but in gradient form and without mixing. This technique is notoriously difficult because:

• The powder tends to settle quickly.
• Achieving a smooth gradient requires expert layering and precise timing.

Our innovation:
We applied a “step-feed” color layering process developed in-house, allowing us to control the density and dispersion of the pearlescent particles across each section of the pin. By using low-speed automated dispensers and manual gradient adjustments, we created a smooth transition that looks like soft waves under light.

Each pin was baked in a humidity-controlled oven to lock in the gradient effect and prevent pigment migration. Model A used cooler tones—sky blue to lavender—while Model B adopted warmer transitions of amber to rose pink.

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3. Special Effects: Transparent Sandblast Application

Next came the application of transparent sandblasting, a technique that creates a frosted texture within transparent enamel areas. This effect adds both depth and a unique tactile quality to the pins.

We created micro-etches within specific zones of the mold, then applied high-clear epoxy infused with fine glass powder. Once cured, the result was a semi-transparent, matte-like appearance—eye-catching but subtle.

This feature was key to distinguishing the high-end look of these pins and aligns perfectly with the client’s premium brand image.

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4. Finishing Touches: Printing and Polishing

Though the pins didn’t require elaborate printed details, we did apply silkscreen outlines for branding clarity and enhanced contrast. Our silkscreen frames are custom-fitted to every batch, ensuring sharp and consistent application.

Polishing was done in two stages:

1. Tumbling polish to smooth out edges and remove excess debris.
2. Manual high-gloss polish on the raised metal areas to add brilliance and visual contrast.

Each pin was then carefully quality checked under strong white light to catch any flaws in the enamel flow, metal finish, or printing alignment.

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Client Communication: Trust-Driven Efficiency

Because of our longstanding relationship with this client, the communication process was efficient and minimal. Still, we maintained:

• Full project tracking with visual updates.
• Batch-by-batch photo confirmation.
• Advanced notice of shipping and packaging specs.

As a gesture of appreciation, we offered free expedited shipping and added customized packaging at no extra cost.

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What Sets Hipins Apart in Repeat Orders

This project is a great example of how Hipins supports long-term clients through:

• Confidence in quality: Our clients trust us to deliver mass orders without sampling.
• Speed without compromise: We completed this high-volume, multi-effect project in record time.
• Material mastery: From pearlescent powder to transparent sandblast, we expertly handled complex finishes.
• Consistent communication: Even with minimal back-and-forth, we ensured every detail was confirmed.

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FAQs

Q1: Can you produce gradient colors without mixing them together?
Yes! Our team uses a special step-feed technique to apply pearlescent gradients in layers, keeping them distinct and smooth.

Q2: What is transparent sandblasting?
It’s a technique where frosted textures are created beneath clear enamel to give a soft matte effect. It adds sophistication to the pin’s look.

Q3: Do I need to sample before a mass order?
While sampling is recommended for first-time projects, returning clients with established specs may choose to go straight to mass production.

Q4: Can I combine different special effects in one pin?
Absolutely. We specialize in multi-technique pins that combine gradients, glitter, transparent fills, and screen printing.

Q5: How fast can you finish large-volume orders?
With our factory setup and optimized workflows, we can deliver most complex bulk orders within 7–12 days, depending on specs.

At Hipins, we believe that great craftsmanship is not just about creating beautiful pins—it’s about creating lasting relationships. One of our long-term clients recently returned with a new challenge: a highly detailed, double-layered enamel pin featuring a fantasy character. This piece required a gold-plated finish, precision alignment between two separate components, and a laser-engraved backplate. The result? A collectible-quality pin that exceeded expectations and demonstrated once again why Hipins is the trusted name in premium pin production.

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🔧 Design & Production Specifications

The pin features a prominent fantasy warrior figure—armored, fur-draped, and stoic. Every detail in his clothing, posture, and facial expression had to be captured precisely, which required a mix of advanced techniques:

• Structure: A two-piece pin construction (上下件 pin), including:
  • Top Layer: 2.0mm thick metal (gold-plated), cut to shape for the full-body character.
  • Base Layer: 2.5mm thick gold-plated metal with background illustration.
  • Components perfectly interlocked and soldered to maintain balance and alignment.
• Plating: Gold finish on both upper and lower layers, applied with uniform coverage and protective coating.
• Color Work:
  • Hard enamel used for the main character, with deep tones like black 4, cool gray, and warm browns.
  • Gradient pearl effect in the base (black 2-5625 Pearl, not stirred) for a mysterious, otherworldly touch.
  • UV print applied to enhance facial features, armor texture, and fine shadows.
• Printing:
  • Silkscreen print used for precision color matching in tight spaces.
  • Multiple black and gray tones layered for shading depth and realism.
• Back Design:
  • Laser engraving with limited-edition numbering (e.g., LE 35).
  • Custom brand logo and celestial elements to match the fantasy theme.
  • Equipped with dual rubber clutches for secure wear.

This pin measures approximately 73.3mm in height and 3.5 inches in length, giving it a dramatic, standout presence ideal for collectors and fans.

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💬 Communication Process: From Concept to Masterpiece

The client came to us with a reference illustration and a clear vision: a layered fantasy pin with elevated craftsmanship. From the beginning, our project team collaborated closely with the client on the following:

1. Artwork Breakdown:
   We reviewed the original artwork and translated it into manufacturable layers, marking out UV zones, enamel fills, gradient zones, and cutout areas.
2. Material Consultation:
   We recommended gold plating to match the regal tone of the character and ensure compatibility with the layered design.
3. Layer Assembly Planning:
   To ensure perfect fitment of the top and bottom pieces, we adjusted mold tolerances to within ±0.05mm—tight enough to lock cleanly without looseness.
4. Backside Customization:
   The client requested something more than a basic logo. We designed a celestial-style engraving with moon and star elements, tied to the pin’s lore.
5. Digital Proofing:
   Before sampling, we sent detailed vector files and rendered mockups for client confirmation. No revisions were needed—the client approved in full.

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🏭 Post-Production: Quality in Every Step

Production was completed in three phases:

1. Mold Fabrication and Plating:
   Mold files were CNC-cut, and both top and base metals were plated in gold. The pin sections were thoroughly polished to prevent plating blemishes.
2. Color Application and UV Printing:
   Enamel and pearl layers were hand-filled, cured, and sanded to an even level. UV printing followed, with close inspection to align critical details like eyes, belt, and background pattern.
3. Laser Engraving and Assembly:
   Each backing was laser-etched with edition numbers and logo before the top figure was soldered in position. Final polishing ensured a smooth finish throughout.

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🌟 Client Feedback: “This One’s a Masterpiece”

Upon receiving the sample, the client responded with a short but impactful review:

“This one’s a masterpiece. You’ve outdone yourselves again.”

They particularly praised:

• The stability and precision of the layered construction
• The balance between hard enamel texture and printed detail
• The creative use of the back engraving to tell a story

The pin was immediately approved for batch production, and the client has since placed pre-orders through their distribution channels.

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🔄 Lessons & Value for Future Clients

This project proved that even the most intricate ideas can become successful pins with the right manufacturer. Key takeaways include:

• Layered Pin Designs unlock more visual storytelling.
• Combining Enamel + UV Print brings illustrations to life with extra dimension.
• Laser-Engraved Backs can carry branding, edition marks, and lore elements—all in one.
• Mature Communication Process avoids rounds of revision and saves production time.

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FAQs

Q1: Can I do multi-layer pins with Hipins?
Yes, we can produce layered (上下件) pins with precision alignment. Let us know your concept and we’ll advise structure and plating combinations.

Q2: Will laser engraving fade over time?
No, we use deep laser engraving for durability. It remains legible and sharp for years.

Q3: How detailed can UV printing get?
Extremely detailed. We can print facial features, shadow gradients, textures, and even tiny symbols at high resolution.

Q4: Can I request custom shapes or back engravings?
Absolutely. We offer full customization including irregular shapes, mold cut-outs, and personalized engravings.

In the world of custom pin manufacturing, perfection isn’t easy to come by—especially not on the first try. But at Hipins, we’ve built our reputation on getting it right the first time, every time. A recent case proves exactly that. A long-time client approached us with a new design that required exceptional precision, including pearlescent powder, glitter accents, and gold plating. Despite the complex details, our team delivered a flawless enamel + print sample, approved instantly by the client.

First Impressions Matter – We Make Yours Shine

Within three seconds of seeing the final sample, our client said yes. That’s the power of seamless coordination, deep manufacturing knowledge, and attention to artistic detail. At Hipins, we understand that in custom merchandise, time is money. That’s why we ensure every trial piece is not just a draft—it’s a proof of excellence.

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Breaking Down the Artwork

This pin, titled “Nostalgic Embrace,” features a fairytale-style portrait of a girl gently holding a small chameleon. While charming at first glance, the technical execution behind it is far from simple:

• Metal Base: 2.0mm thick metal for durability and layered depth.
• Plating Finish: A two-style variation with gold and black nickel plating.
• Pearlescent Enamel: Applied in key sections such as hair, skin, and background using non-stirred pearl powder (+1785 Pearlescent, non-agitated for clarity and shimmer).
• Transparent and Sandblast Inks: Including #7489 transparent sandblast, ensuring gradients and transparency.
• Silkscreen Printing: For precise line details and smooth surface finish.
• Gold Glitter Powder: Adds sparkle to the dress and flower, enhancing the dreamlike feel.
• Back Design: Laser-engraved limited edition numbering and customized backstamp.

This pin is a fusion of fantasy illustration and real-world precision. And the best part? No resampling was needed.

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Why the First Try Worked

Many factories would require two or more rounds of sampling to achieve a result this polished. But Hipins didn’t. Here’s why:

1. Cross-Team Coordination: From design input to plating, our art team, production staff, and QC managers worked in lockstep.
2. Clear Artwork Communication: Each Pantone code, fill zone, and special finish was plotted with layered clarity.
3. Material Testing In-House: We test how pearlescent and glitter layers behave under curing and plating conditions, so there are no surprises.
4. Laser Precision in Execution: Backside engraving and pin placement followed millimeter-level accuracy, using shared molds to reduce cost without compromising quality.

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Innovation Inspired by This Project

This project inspired two new custom options for future pins:

1. Split Metal Style Pins

• Concept: Combine two plating finishes—e.g., gold on the front layer, black nickel on the backing layer—for dramatic contrast.
• Inspired By: The A/B style plating choices in this project.
• Result: Greater visual depth, especially for character pins or storytelling-themed designs.

2. Non-Stirred Pearlescent + Glitter Fusion

• Concept: Use non-agitated pearl powders in soft zones (e.g., skin, sky) and combine them with glitter zones (e.g., hair, clothing) using precise flow control.
• Inspired By: The successful separation of textures in this pin’s artwork.
• Result: Adds elegance without overwhelming sparkle, ideal for collectors’ editions.

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Trusted by Clients for a Reason

This client has worked with us for multiple projects, and this time, their trust paid off again. They provided the concept, we translated it into a viable pin within days—no delay, no modifications needed. This shows our deep experience in handling:

• High-saturation colors
• Pearlescent layering
• Transparent shading
• Glitter with durability

They not only approved the sample instantly but ordered production immediately, with no hesitation.

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Real-World Applications

This pin could fit beautifully into several markets:

• Collector’s Series
• Fantasy or Anime Merch
• Limited Edition Convention Swag
• Character IP Licensing

With its 52.6mm height and multi-finish design, it commands attention on bags, jackets, or display boards.

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FAQs About Similar Custom Pins

Q1: Can I use both glitter and pearl enamel on the same pin?
Absolutely. We apply each layer strategically to prevent contamination and ensure shine without sacrificing color clarity.

Q2: Will transparent effects show up clearly on small areas?
Yes, if designed correctly. Our art team will advise which zones work best for transparency, and we sandblast areas to enhance visibility.

Q3: Do you charge extra for silkscreen or laser engraving?
Silkscreen printing and laser engraving are included in our quotation based on design complexity. Most regular use cases fall within standard pricing.

At Hipins, we pride ourselves on transforming bold ideas into high-quality, collectible pins. This case study highlights a recent project that not only tested our craftsmanship but also proved to be a massive hit with the client’s customer base. Featuring a layered Pin on Pin construction and a fantastical design style, this pin quickly sold out after its release—underscoring the value of precision, creativity, and trust in our production process.

Design and Production Specifications

This project was anything but ordinary. The client’s vision centered around a mystical character silhouette paired with a detailed foreground figure. To bring depth and complexity to the final result, we recommended a Pin on Pin structure—essentially, two separate metal pieces stacked together to create a dimensional effect.

Key specifications included:

• Two-layer construction: The background featured a moonlit silhouette scene, while the foreground carried intricate linework, flowing hair, and themed accessories.
• High-polish gold plating: To give the pin an elegant and collectible finish.
• Precise enamel coloring: Color fill for each layer was carefully matched to the original artwork, with multiple shades of blue, yellow, brown, and metallic accents.
• Frame border detailing: The outer rim was sculpted with a vintage-inspired rope border, adding further sophistication.

Despite the design’s visual complexity, our engineers ensured that the top and base layers aligned perfectly during assembly, maintaining consistency across the entire batch.

The Communication Process

From the very start, our communication with the client was fluid and detail-focused. The artwork involved numerous overlapping elements, including facial details, shadows, and partial transparency. We worked closely with the client to:

• Adjust character positioning for better balance between the two pin layers.
• Recommend pin size and thickness suitable for the layered construction.
• Clarify small details that would be lost in stamping vs. those that could be emphasized with enamel or metal lines.

We also provided digital previews, including simulation of the front and side views of the stacked pin. Once artwork was finalized, our production timeline was communicated clearly, and progress photos were shared along the way.

Production Excellence and Quality Control

Executing a layered pin requires not only precise stamping and plating but also tight tolerances during color filling and assembly.

Our production team handled this with care by:

• Aligning top and bottom molds precisely during die-cutting.
• Using CNC spot-guides to drill pinholes that ensured layer stability.
• Applying enamel to both layers before combining them—avoiding smudges or edge bleeding.
• Performing post-assembly polishing to maintain a smooth, luxurious surface.

Each pin was individually inspected for color integrity, layer alignment, and metal finish. For added durability, we reinforced the attachment points between the layers to prevent shifting during shipping or wear.

Post-Production and Client Feedback

Upon delivery, the client immediately launched the pin on their shop platform. Within a very short time, it completely sold out.

Their feedback was simple yet powerful:

“The pins are absolutely stunning. Every detail came out perfectly, and the layered look is even better in person. My customers loved them—they were gone in a flash. Can’t wait to start the next project!”

This kind of response is what drives our team. It’s not just about producing metal—it’s about helping our clients achieve success with their ideas.

Why Pin on Pin Designs Matter

The Pin on Pin technique opens new doors for collectors and designers. It allows:

• Layered storytelling: Multiple scenes or characters can share the same space.
• Texture contrast: Flat enamel meets sculpted metal for a tactile experience.
• Premium perception: The added dimension makes the pin feel like a high-end collectible.

At Hipins, we’ve mastered the precision and planning it takes to make layered pins work—and work beautifully.

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FAQs

Q: What is a “Pin on Pin”?
A: It’s a design method where one pin (usually a detailed or focal element) is mounted on top of another base pin, creating a multi-layered effect.

Q: Will the layers stay secure?
A: Absolutely. We use precise alignment guides and secure backing techniques to ensure the top layer is firmly attached to the base.

Q: Can I use different plating colors for each layer?
A: Yes, we can plate each component separately before assembly—allowing for creative contrasts like gold on black, matte vs. shiny, etc.

At Hipins, every custom pin we create tells a story—not just of creativity and design, but of collaboration, problem-solving, and precision manufacturing. Today, we’re excited to share a behind-the-scenes look at one of our most vibrant and technically intricate projects to date: a colorful pin that combines UV printing and silk screen techniques to stunning effect.

This pin wasn’t just another order—it was a creative vision brought to life. From the very beginning, our long-time client came to us with a detailed idea, filled with unique colors, visual textures, and complex effects. They wanted a piece that would stand out both in finish and meaning, and we were fully committed to making it happen.

A Complex Vision with Clear Goals

What made this project special was its fusion of different print styles and materials. The client asked for two highly specific effects:

• Silk screen printing to capture crisp outlines and solid colors.
• UV gradient translucent printing to create a soft, glassy blend across the base—giving the pin depth, light play, and uniqueness.

Each element served a purpose. The silk screen layers defined character lines and details with clean precision, while the UV gradient added visual flow and motion to the pin’s center. Integrating both techniques on a small-scale pin posed challenges—but we knew exactly how to handle them.

From Concept to Metal: How We Delivered

Like all of our custom orders, we started by carefully analyzing the artwork. Our design team broke the project into stages:

1. Artwork Optimization: We worked with the client to adjust line widths, define printing boundaries, and ensure the UV gradient would flow seamlessly between the raised metal outlines.
2. Mold Creation: The mold was developed with specific consideration for the pin’s cutout areas and layered effects. Even minor adjustments were taken seriously—some areas that look like holes may just be recessed in the final item.
3. Base Production: The raw pin (blank) was struck and plated in gold, preparing the surface for color application.
4. Color Application: We handled silk screen printing first to lock in the base color palette and character expressions, followed by UV printing for the subtle gradient blend on the background element.
5. Quality Control: Throughout the process, each step was approved by the client and monitored by our internal team to ensure consistency across the full batch of 65 pieces.

Despite the complexity, production went smoothly—thanks to precise planning, years of technical experience, and open communication between our teams and the client.

More Than Just Manufacturing—A Partnership

One thing we take pride in at Hipins is that we don’t just “produce pins”—we co-create them with our clients. This project is a perfect example. The customer made multiple requests along the way, including special attention to color accuracy, gradient flow, and the visibility of raised metal. We never saw these as obstacles, but as opportunities to show how flexible and responsive we can be.

We provided free design revisions, production previews, and real-time progress updates, helping our client feel confident every step of the way. It’s this warmth, this human connection, that separates Hipins from a standard factory. We treat every idea with respect—because we know how much meaning it holds for the person behind it.

The Result: A Pin That Truly Shines

The final result? A brilliantly colored, finely detailed pin that tells its own story. From the whimsical character expression to the glowing effect of the UV gradient, every detail came through beautifully. The pin not only met our client’s vision—it exceeded it.

And for us, that’s the ultimate reward.

Why This Matters to Future Clients

If you’re considering creating your own custom pin—whether it involves advanced printing techniques like UV or a classic enamel finish—Hipins is ready. This case study shows that we:

• Handle complex multi-process pins with precision.
• Are open and collaborative at every stage.
• Deliver exactly what you imagine—or better.

We’ve been doing this for over 17 years, and each year only sharpens our edge. Whether you’re a wholesaler, a collector, or an artist looking to bring your character to life, we’re here to help.

Let your next pin be more than a product. Let it be a collaboration.

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FAQs

Q: Can Hipins combine different printing techniques in one pin?
A: Absolutely. We can combine silk screen, UV printing, glitter, translucent enamel, and more—depending on your design needs.

Q: How does Hipins ensure color accuracy?
A: We use Pantone Matching System (PMS) references and provide digital previews before production. We also run strict quality checks before mass production.

At Hipins, we often say that every detail tells a story—and sometimes, that story is told through multiple techniques layered with intention.

In this blog, we’re proud to spotlight another returning client’s project that challenged us to combine two powerful effects: silk screen printing and glitter enamel. The result? A festive custom pin full of texture, brilliance, and visual delight. And more importantly, a great example of how thoughtful craftsmanship can elevate a design far beyond basic enamel.

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🎁 The Concept: Holiday Cheer, Depth, and Sparkle

This holiday-themed pin features a charming orange cat peeking through a stack of brightly wrapped gift boxes, complete with bows, candy canes, and festive ribbons. While the idea seems simple on the surface, the execution demanded a much deeper level of production complexity.

“We want it to pop. Not just color-wise, but in texture. Some parts should be flat and sharp; others should shimmer or sparkle under light,” the client explained.

It was clear that standard hard enamel would not be enough.

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🛠️ Our Approach: Blending Screen Printing with Glitter Fill

✅ 1. Understanding the Design Zones

We first divided the pin’s design into different functional zones:

• Character and ribbons needed high precision (ideal for silk screen).
• Gift wrapping and bows needed shine and dimension (perfect for glitter).
• Background and outlines required strong contrast and clean fill (handled with raised gold metal and solid enamel).

✅ 2. Silk Screen for Sharp, Micro Details

In areas like the cat’s stripes and eyes, we used silk screen printing—a method that allows us to lay very fine ink lines on top of cured enamel. This ensured ultra-clean detail without interfering with the metal lines or adjacent glitter areas.

Example:
Color 492 (black) and 695 (dark red) were screen printed to highlight facial features, providing clarity that standard enamel borders simply can’t achieve.

✅ 3. Glitter for Festive Dimension

For the bows, wrapping paper, and gift base, we incorporated clear glitter mixed with translucent enamel (colors like 710 and 7730). This added sparkle that caught the light differently at every angle—bringing movement and energy into a static design.

Key Glitter Zones:

• Red gift ribbon (7730)
• Yellow package fill (575)
• Green base glitter (710)

✅ 4. Raised Metal Framing for Clean Transitions

To keep silk screen and glitter zones from bleeding into each other, we used raised gold metal lines to define every boundary. This not only protected visual integrity but also gave the pin a polished, premium feel.

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🧪 Innovation in Action: A Second Case for Validation

To validate this process, we worked with another client in the fantasy pin space. They created a celestial-themed pin where:

• Moon phases were glitter enamel
• Tiny star constellations were silk-screened in white ink
• The background was deep navy pearl enamel

The result was a balanced pin that shimmered in low light and retained sharp details on close inspection—exactly the kind of visual harmony possible only with dual-process layering.

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📦 Final Outcome: Complexity Made Simple

Despite the multi-step process, the final pins were completed in under 20 days—thanks to Hipins’ in-house print + glitter + polishing departments working in sync.

Every unit passed quality control, and the client later ordered a second batch with modified color schemes, further proof of satisfaction and repeat value.

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🔧 Why These Techniques Matter

Many pin manufacturers either avoid combining glitter with silk screen or struggle to control quality when doing so. At Hipins, our production workflow allows:

• Precision registration between raised metal and print zones
• Customized glitter grain sizes to match artwork intent
• Layered curing processes that prevent warping or bubbling

This makes us an ideal partner for creative designers, wholesalers, and merch shops who need reliable execution on multi-effect projects.

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❓ FAQs: Silk Screen and Glitter Pins

Q1: What is silk screen printing in pin making?
A: It’s a method where fine ink is printed over cured enamel using a mesh screen—ideal for details too small or delicate to mold in metal.

Q2: Does adding glitter increase production time?
A: Not significantly. With Hipins’ integrated glitter mixing and curing process, the additional time is minimal (1–2 days), with no compromise on quality.

Q3: Can I combine glitter, silk screen, AND pearl enamel?
A: Absolutely. We frequently create pins with all three effects, carefully mapped for clarity and visual balance.

Q4: Will glitter fall off over time?
A: No. We seal all glitter enamel under a clear epoxy layer or resin coat if needed, ensuring durability and wear resistance.

Q5: What kind of file should I send if I want both techniques?
A: Vector artwork (.AI, .EPS, .SVG) is preferred. Our team can help layer your design correctly for both printing and glitter zones.

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✉️ Ready to make your pin sparkle—without sacrificing precision?

At Hipins, we’re more than a factory. We’re a team of detail-obsessed creators who help brands and artists translate ideas into refined, collectible pins.

In the world of custom pins, sometimes it’s not about what’s painted—but what’s revealed. At Hipins, we believe that materials tell stories, and our latest collaboration with a long-time client showcases how the stained glass enamel technique can completely transform the emotional impact of a design.

This is not just another pin—it’s a fusion of translucency, layering, and color theory. And the result? A winter scene with unexpected warmth and surprising visual depth.

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🎨 The Client Vision: Whimsy, Contrast, and Light

The client behind this project is no stranger to the world of collectible pins. Over the past three years, they’ve worked with Hipins on over ten designs, each one more daring and detail-driven than the last. For this winter edition, their brief was simple yet ambitious:

“We want the background to feel soft, mystical, and alive—but without adding clutter. It should contrast with the character, yet still feel like one complete piece.”

They chose a character—an elegant cat wrapped in a cozy scarf—set against a snowy botanical background. The main challenge? Making sure the cat remains the focus, while the background subtly glows rather than competes.

That’s where stained glass enamel came in.

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🔍 From Concept to Production: How We Made It Happen

Here’s how we turned that vision into a precision-built, emotionally resonant pin:

✅ 1. Precision Artwork Matching

The first step was understanding the artwork’s spatial relationship. In this pin, the background plays a huge role. By using a semi-translucent enamel (Color 538) over a hollow-cut area, we created a light-passing effect that mimics actual stained glass. It doesn’t just “sit” behind the character—it interacts with light to change subtly based on viewing angle.

✅ 2. Raised Metal + Enamel Partitioning

We used raised silver metal lines to define the edge of each color zone, giving structure to the delicate parts of the background—especially the flowers and leaves surrounding the character. These thin partitions are essential to keep the stained glass enamel contained while maintaining clarity in form.

✅ 3. Pearlescent and Glitter Details for Dimension

Complementing the glassy effect, we added pearlescent colors (705, 345, 573) to the foreground scarf and plants. This soft shine offsets the glassy finish in the back and draws the eye to the center.

✅ 4. Printing for Precision

To emphasize the character’s expression, we used offset printing (color 440) on the face and scarf edge—something flat enamel alone couldn’t achieve.

✅ 5. Backside Engineering

Even the reverse side got attention. The silhouette cut and recessed areas allow for easier mounting and better light diffusion, improving the stained-glass glow when held against backlight.

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🌟 Innovation That Serves the Design

This project proves that glass enamel is more than a gimmick—it’s a design tool. It adds narrative, changes visual hierarchy, and opens creative doors that solid color enamel can’t.

By using translucent areas in a way that blends seamlessly with the theme (winter, snow, quiet magic), we helped the client elevate a cute character into a scene with emotional resonance.

And perhaps more importantly—it became one of their fastest-selling designs to date.

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💬 A Word From the Client

“I’ve worked with other factories before, but Hipins was the first to really understand how to use stained glass intelligently. Not just for effect, but to serve the story of the pin.”

We love hearing feedback like this—not because it’s flattering, but because it confirms what we already believe: craftsmanship is about understanding the purpose behind every material choice.

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📈 Why This Matters for Future Clients

If you’re looking to create pins that stand out in a saturated market, choosing advanced techniques like stained glass enamel gives your designs both visual distinction and emotional value. It makes your pin feel premium, without necessarily increasing unit costs significantly.

And with Hipins, you don’t need to worry about experimenting—we’ve done the testing, refined the layering process, and matched dozens of color schemes to stained glass effects. Whether you’re creating fantasy characters, seasonal motifs, or minimalistic designs with emotional impact, we can guide you from idea to flawless finish.

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❓ FAQs: About Stained Glass Enamel Pins

Q1: What is stained glass enamel in pin production?
A: It’s a type of translucent enamel that allows light to pass through, similar to colored glass. It creates a glowing or backlit effect and is usually used in areas with no backing behind.

Q2: Does it increase the cost significantly?
A: Not drastically. The main factors are mold complexity and enamel type, but we offer stained glass as part of our advanced finishes package without major markups.

Q3: Can I combine stained glass with other effects like glitter or pearl?
A: Yes! As in this project, we often layer stained glass with pearlescent or glitter elements for a richer visual result.

Q4: What artwork file do I need to provide?
A: Vector files (like .AI or .EPS) are ideal. If you’re unsure, we provide free artwork setup and professional suggestions for the best use of special effects.

At Hipins, our goal is simple: to turn your creative ideas into high-quality custom pins that exceed expectations. Today, we’re showcasing another design from a recent five-pin order placed by one of our loyal returning clients. This particular piece—an intricate fall-themed enamel pin featuring colorful leaves, pumpkins, and subtle UV printing—is a great example of how thoughtful design, precise manufacturing, and effective communication come together to create a standout product.

Client Background: A Trusted Partnership

This project is part of a bulk order for five distinct pin designs, placed by a long-term client who has been working with Hipins for several years. Due to our consistently high-quality production and dependable service, the client confidently approved full production for each design—no pre-sample was needed for most items. That level of trust underscores the reliability and craftsmanship Hipins is known for.

This specific design, labeled B and C (each 65 pcs), features the same silhouette but uses two different finishing techniques: one with UV translucent ink and one with silk screen printing. The variation allows the client to explore different effects while keeping the core design consistent.

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🛠️ Design and Production Specifications

1. Size & Shape

The pin measures 2.1 inches wide and takes on the silhouette of layered autumn leaves. In the center, two pumpkins and a green spiral leaf give the piece seasonal warmth and dimension.

2. Materials & Colors

• Metal Base: Raised gold metal
• Color Filling: Soft enamel with both Pantone-matched standard and special effect inks
• Special Features:
  • One version uses UV translucent ink (colors 7487, 7500)
  • Another uses silk screen printing for sharp color contrast
• Backstamp: Custom branded mark to reflect the client’s identity
• Attachment: Black rubber clutches
• Packing: Individual PVC bags

This pin involved a combination of traditional color filling and post-process printing, demonstrating our capability in mixed-technique production. The color transitions are key to the leaf texture and pumpkin detailing, requiring tight control over alignment and color intensity.

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🔁 Communication & Coordination

From concept to execution, this pin design involved smooth and proactive communication with the client.

• Initial Phase:
  The client provided detailed vector artwork and clear expectations regarding special effect usage. Our design team quickly reviewed and offered recommendations on how to implement UV ink without compromising structural strength.
• Engineering Consultation:
  Due to the cutouts and the delicate tips of the leaves, we adjusted mold paths slightly to maintain edge strength during production. These minor adjustments were explained and approved within 24 hours.
• Color Matching:
  For the pumpkin tones and UV accents, we performed a color simulation to confirm that the Pearlescent UV ink would retain the desired transparency. Both UV and silk screen versions were confirmed with detailed rendering previews.
• Speed & Efficiency:
  Thanks to our experienced team and standardized process, the entire order moved into production within 48 hours of final confirmation.

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🎯 Post-Production & Client Feedback

Once production was complete, the pins were inspected using our two-step QC protocol—a visual check for color fill and edge polish, followed by a structural inspection for plating adhesion and clutch fitting.

All 130 pins (65 of each version) were packed securely and shipped on schedule, complete with backstamp verification and detailed carton labeling.

The client was thrilled with the result, especially with the UV version, noting that the light-reactive shimmer on the pumpkins gave the piece an extra magical dimension perfect for a fall or Halloween collection. Their direct feedback:

“The details came out even better than I imagined. The UV finish really catches the light and adds another level of charm.”

This pin has since been integrated into their seasonal merch drop and has received positive reviews from end buyers as well.

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💡 Why This Design Works

• Multi-Version Strategy: By producing both UV and silk screen versions, the client increased flexibility for future resales or collector’s sets.
• Compact but Detailed: Despite its small size, the layered design delivers visual depth.
• Seasonal Appeal: The theme aligns perfectly with fall, Halloween, and Thanksgiving—ideal for time-limited launches.
• Fast Turnaround: The client benefited from our free rush service, ensuring the pins arrived in time for seasonal promotions.

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❓FAQs – Custom Pin Questions Answered

Q1: What’s the difference between UV printing and silk screen printing on pins?
A: UV printing is semi-transparent and gives a subtle glossy effect that changes with light. Silk screen printing offers solid, sharp colors that sit on the surface. Each suits different design needs.

Q2: Can I create two versions of the same design with different finishes like this project?
A: Absolutely! We often help clients develop multiple finishes from one base mold to suit different target markets or artistic preferences.

Q3: Will translucent UV colors look the same on every metal?
A: Not exactly—translucent colors interact with the base metal’s tone. Our design team can simulate the final effect for you before production.

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🌟 Start Your Own Seasonal Pin Project

Looking to create your own themed pin series for fall, Halloween, or any other occasion? Hipins is here to help. Whether you want UV effects, glitter, glow-in-the-dark, or layered metal—we offer complete customization and dedicated support every step of the way.

At Hipins, we believe that great pins come from great partnerships. One of our long-term clients recently placed a new order for five unique designs, and today we’re spotlighting one particularly enchanting piece: a Halloween-themed pin featuring a whimsical green cat sitting in a bubbling cauldron. This isn’t just a pin—it’s a testament to trust, precision, and craftsmanship.

The Value of Long-Term Trust

This client has been working with Hipins for multiple production cycles. What brings them back each time? It’s not just the high-quality products—it’s the complete experience. From initial design consultation to final delivery, Hipins is known for being responsive, detail-oriented, and consistent. With us, there’s no need for repeated sampling. As indicated in this order, several designs (A, B, C, E, F) went straight to mass production. That level of confidence doesn’t come easily—it’s earned through years of reliable service.

From Design to Delivery: Our Pin Production Process

This particular pin combines hard enamel with silk screen printing, a technique that allows for both durable color filling and precise surface details. Here’s a quick look at how we brought this design to life:

1. Mold Making
   We begin by engraving a steel mold based on the digital artwork. Every contour—like the rounded cauldron, curled leaves, and feline features—is captured with precision.

1. Stamping & Base Forming
   Using high-tonnage stamping machines, we create the base “blank” or raw form of the pin. For layered designs like this one, even the smallest dimensional error could affect the whole piece—our factory ensures all measurements match the artwork to a 0.1mm accuracy.

1. Polishing
   Each pin is hand-polished to remove excess burrs and ensure a smooth surface. This step is critical for hard enamel pins, where a flat surface enhances the final aesthetic.
2. Plating
   In this project, raised areas are plated with gold, providing elegant contrast to the vibrant colors. Our electroplating process is done in-house to guarantee consistency and durability.

1. Enameling
   Multiple colors are filled by hand, including special effects like Pantone 380 pearlescent enamel for the bubbling potion—adding a subtle sparkle that brings the scene to life.
2. Silk Screen Printing
   Fine line details such as facial expressions and hat textures are applied using silk screen, allowing us to stay true to the original illustration.
3. Final Assembly & Inspection
   Each pin is paired with rubber clutches and undergoes a dual-stage inspection process, including visual checks and sample-based QA. All items are individually packed in PVC bags.

Small Size, Big Design Complexity

One of the most impressive aspects of this pin is the high level of detail achieved in such a small format (2.01 inches). The character’s expression, the spider hanging off the leaf, and even the layered cauldron design are clearly defined thanks to careful metal layering, raised edges, and cutouts that create visual depth.

In fact, the design required cutout recesses in precise locations to replicate the gaps in the spider’s legs and the leaf pattern. These areas were coordinated meticulously between the design and tooling teams to maintain the integrity of the artwork.

Thematic Innovation: Not Just a Pin, But a Collectible

This pin isn’t just a one-time accessory—it’s part of a thematic series. With its Halloween motifs and collectible appeal, it fits perfectly into seasonal promotions, fandom merchandise, and even fantasy or cosplay collections.

Clients often ask us how they can turn their brand or story into a tangible product. The answer lies in pins like this. From corporate mascots to seasonal campaigns, Hipins helps transform any concept into a miniature art piece with high perceived value.

Why Clients Keep Choosing Hipins

• 17+ years of manufacturing experience
• Factory-direct pricing for wholesale buyers
• Free design consultation and unlimited revisions
• Fast turnaround with optional rush service at no charge
• Detailed production updates to keep clients informed
• Dedicated customer service, fluent in English and experienced with overseas communication
• Backstamp customization, full-color printing, 3D sculpting, and more specialty services available

We take pride in doing more than just “producing.” We collaborate, optimize, and refine until the final product exceeds expectations.

From Concept to Market: Your Design, Our Craftsmanship

Whether you’re looking to launch a new product line, commemorate an event, or simply create something magical like this Halloween cat, Hipins has the tools, talent, and technology to bring your ideas to life. Every pin we create is more than metal and enamel—it’s a story told in color, line, and form.

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Want to Start Your Own Project?

Send us your artwork or just an idea, and our design team will help you bring it to life—quickly, affordably, and with the kind of precision that keeps clients coming back.

At Hipins, we believe that every custom pin is more than just a product—it’s a piece of art. In this project spotlight, we’re proud to share how we worked closely with a client to create a one-of-a-kind pin that combines two advanced printing techniques: UV printing and silk screen printing.

The result? A pin with rich colors, crisp detailing, and vibrant texture—made possible through precision engineering, collaborative communication, and decades of pin-making expertise.

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The Challenge: Integrating Two Printing Techniques in One Pin

Our client approached us with a clear vision: they wanted a pin that could showcase both vibrant surface graphics and solid color layers without compromising clarity or durability.

To achieve this, we proposed a dual-printing approach:

• Silk screen printing for applying bold, opaque spot colors with sharp edges.
• UV printing for detailed gradient shading and photographic elements.

It was a bold design, with layers of texture and visual effects that demanded flawless execution across multiple production stages. And we were ready for the challenge.

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Step 1: Precision Mold Making

We began by turning the client’s artwork into a custom metal mold using CNC engraving. The design required precise recesses in some areas and smooth, open surfaces in others—perfect for holding both enamel and printed elements.

After several refinements and simulation checks, we finalized a mold that:

• Cleanly separated raised and recessed zones
• Offered a flat top layer for perfect UV ink adhesion
• Supported clean silk screen color zones without bleed

This stage set the foundation for all further production steps.

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Step 2: Pin Forming and Surface Prep

After stamping the base metal into the pin’s shape, we began surface finishing. Each pin underwent:

• Deburring: to remove sharp edges
• Polishing: to ensure a smooth, ink-ready surface
• Cleaning: to eliminate dust, oil, or particles before printing

This step is critical—especially when multiple printing techniques are involved. Even tiny imperfections can interfere with ink adhesion or cause registration issues during print alignment.

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Step 3: Color Application and Layer Control

Next came base color filling using enamel. The client had selected a premium matte black as the foundation, which we applied to the recessed areas of the pin. Once cured and polished again, we moved to the most technically demanding stage: printing.

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Step 4: Silk Screen Printing for Spot Color Precision

Using our in-house silk screen press, we applied several key color elements using custom-prepared stencils. This method was ideal for:

• Sharp-edged color blocks
• Isolated logos and icons
• Areas that required rich, non-transparent color

Silk screen printing uses thick, durable ink and is ideal for long-lasting color on metal surfaces.

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Step 5: UV Printing for High-Resolution Details

To add the final visual impact, we used UV printing to overlay high-resolution graphics, such as:

• Gradient effects
• Photo-like textures
• Fine lines and patterns

UV printing is done directly onto the metal surface using a digitally controlled head. The ink is instantly cured by ultraviolet light, making it extremely resistant to fading and wear.

Our advanced machines allowed for precise alignment with the silk screen elements beneath—ensuring that both print layers worked together in harmony.

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Ongoing Client Collaboration: The Key to Success

From day one, we kept the client closely involved through:

• Digital mockups for each production step
• Real-time photos of mold testing, enamel filling, and printing
• Rapid sample iterations whenever the client requested design adjustments

For example, when the client wanted to modify the tone of a specific UV-printed gradient, we sent a side-by-side comparison within 24 hours and implemented changes immediately.

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Final Results: A Bold, Brilliant Pin

The final pin was nothing short of striking. The silk screen elements provided bold contrast and structure, while the UV print delivered depth and dimensionality.

The client was thrilled—not just with the result, but with the speed, professionalism, and attention to detail we offered at every stage. They’ve already started working with us on their next pin series.

At Hipins, we’re not just manufacturers—we’re your creative partner. Whether your design calls for traditional techniques or innovative combinations, we’re ready to make it happen.

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FAQs: Custom Pins with UV and Silk Screen Printing

Q1: Why combine UV printing and silk screen printing in one pin?
Each technique has its strengths—silk screen is ideal for bold, flat color, while UV printing offers detailed, high-resolution designs. Combining both allows for visually complex and dynamic pins.

Q2: Will the print last over time?
Yes. Both silk screen and UV inks are designed to be highly durable, weather-resistant, and fade-proof. We also apply protective coatings where needed.

Q3: Can you print on enamel or metal surfaces directly?
Absolutely. UV printing can be done over polished metal or hardened enamel. We ensure surface compatibility before starting any job.

At Hipins, we pride ourselves on turning creative ideas into high-quality custom pins that stand out in every way. In this case study, we’ll walk you through a recent project where a client approached us for a unique, detailed custom pin design that required precision, collaboration, and a keen understanding of both design and production. The result? A beautifully crafted pin that exceeded expectations.

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Design and Production Specifications: Turning an Idea Into Reality

Our journey began when customers a long-time fan of custom pins and an avid collector, approached us with a concept they had been working on for months. The design concept was intricate, with multiple layers and fine details that required advanced craftsmanship.

The client provided a detailed artwork that included specific requests for color schemes, finish types, and size. Their primary concern was ensuring that the final product reflected the vibrancy of the design while maintaining the structural integrity of the pin.

• Design Concept: The design was centered around a unique character illustration, with various shades and subtle details that needed to be highlighted through hard enamel for a smooth, glossy finish.
• Pin Dimensions: We carefully adhered to the client’s size requirements, ensuring the final pin had the perfect balance between boldness and elegance.
• Finish Type: The client specified a gold-plated finish, and to ensure the details stood out, we incorporated a soft enamel fill to enhance the color vibrancy and texture.

The combination of precise dimensions and high-quality finishes would not only reflect the character’s essence but also make it durable for long-term use. Our team understood the importance of getting every detail right, as custom pins often serve as collector’s items or special keepsakes, making quality paramount.

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The Communication Process: Listening, Adapting, and Perfecting

Communication is key when it comes to custom pin production. The client had a clear vision, but like many customers, they wanted to ensure every aspect was exactly as they envisioned. We worked closely with them throughout the entire process to guarantee their expectations were met at each stage.

• Initial Briefing: The client sent over their design and initial ideas, along with some suggestions for possible adjustments to improve the look. They requested a more vibrant color palette and a more prominent finish for certain elements to make them stand out.
• Mock-up Creation: Our design team got to work on creating a digital mock-up that reflected all of the requested changes. We made sure to incorporate the client’s suggestions, especially the enhanced details and vibrant colors.
• Client Review and Revisions: Once the initial mock-up was sent over, the client provided feedback, which we took seriously. They asked for some adjustments to ensure the contrast between elements was sharper, and we also fine-tuned the gold-plated finish for a more refined look.

Throughout this phase, we remained in constant contact with the client, ensuring they were happy with every change before moving forward. This back-and-forth collaboration ensured that the final design met both their expectations and our high-quality standards.

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Post-Production: Quality Control and Final Touches

Once the design was finalized and approved, we moved to the production stage. At Hipins, quality control is a critical part of our process, ensuring that each pin meets the high standards our clients expect.

• Mold Creation: Based on the final design, our skilled craftsmen created a highly detailed mold to ensure every fine line, curve, and shading was accurately reproduced.
• Production Process: The production process involved several steps, including die-striking, color filling, and polishing. The client’s request for vibrant enamel colors was achieved through the hard enamel filling technique, while the gold-plated finish was applied with meticulous attention to detail to ensure durability and an elegant sheen.
• Final Inspection: Once the pins were produced, they underwent a thorough inspection to check for any imperfections in the enamel or finish. Each pin was individually examined to ensure consistency in color and detail.

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Client Feedback: Satisfaction Guaranteed

After the final production, the pins were carefully packed and shipped to the client. Upon receiving the order, the feedback was overwhelmingly positive. The client was thrilled with the outcome and expressed their satisfaction with our ability to meet their requirements while offering suggestions for improvements throughout the process.

Here’s what the client had to say:

“Working with Hipins has been a great experience. From the design process to the final product, they really listened to my needs and made sure every detail was perfect. The pins look fantastic, and the quality is unmatched. I’m excited to start showcasing them in my collection!”

This feedback not only reassured us that we had met the client’s expectations but also reinforced our commitment to delivering high-quality, customized pins. We believe that maintaining open communication throughout the process ensures a smooth and positive experience for both parties, and this project was no exception.

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Conclusion: The Importance of Collaboration and Precision in Custom Pin Production

This case study highlights the key elements of successful custom pin production: from understanding the client’s vision to maintaining transparent communication and ensuring the highest quality in production. At Hipins, we strive to meet every client’s needs, whether they’re looking for a simple design or a highly detailed, intricate custom pin.

Our ability to adapt to client feedback, offer suggestions for improvements, and deliver exceptional quality has earned us long-term partnerships with clients across various industries. We understand that each custom pin is more than just a product — it’s a representation of the client’s brand, vision, and creativity.

If you’re looking for a reliable pin manufacturer that can bring your ideas to life with precision and care, we’d love to work with you. Hipins has over 17 years of experience in creating custom pins that exceed expectations. Let’s make your next project a reality!

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Call to Action

Feel free to reach out to us for any inquiries, or visit our website to explore our wide range of custom pin options. Whether you have a detailed design or a simple concept, we’re here to help you bring it to life with quality craftsmanship and professional service.

In the custom pin industry, trust is everything. At Hipins, we don’t just make pins—we build lasting relationships with our clients. This case study shines a light on one of our most valued long-term customers who has placed multiple repeat orders with us over the years. It’s more than just business; it’s a story of reliability, precision, and shared creative vision.

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The First Order: Building the Foundation

The journey began three years ago when this client—a mid-sized collectibles brand based in North America—approached us with a complex enamel pin idea. The design featured layered metalwork, multiple colors, and strict packaging requirements.

From the start, our team took a hands-on approach:

• We provided a free detailed artwork within 24 hours.
• Our production team reviewed the design for technical feasibility and mold accuracy.
• Regular updates were shared during each phase: mold cutting, die striking, polishing, coloring, and quality inspection.

The client was not only satisfied with the result, but amazed by the speed, communication, and craftsmanship.

“The pins looked even better than expected. I’ve worked with other suppliers before, but Hipins truly stands out,” they said in their feedback.

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Why the Client Returned: The 3 Core Reasons

1. Consistent Quality

Repeat orders require repeat precision. Every time the client reordered, whether it was 300 or 3,000 pins, they received the same:

• Pantone-matched colors
• Smooth finishes and crisp edges
• Perfectly centered clutches and polished backs

We keep all mold data and production notes on file, ensuring consistency with every reorder—something our client greatly appreciated.

2. Stress-Free Reordering

Our reorder process is simplified for returning customers:

• Instant reference to past orders
• Re-confirmation of shipping address and timeline
• Option to adjust details (color, quantity, packaging) without full redesign

This streamlined system saves the client time and eliminates the back-and-forth they often experienced with other suppliers.

3. Transparent Communication

No ghosting. No vague timelines. We keep our clients in the loop, whether it’s a quick question or a last-minute change. In one instance, the client needed an urgent batch for an upcoming comic convention. Our team worked overnight shifts and managed to deliver it three days ahead of schedule, earning heartfelt appreciation from the client.

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From One Pin to a Series

What started as a one-time order turned into a full series of themed pins, each with its own character, color palette, and finish. The client explored different effects with us, including:

• Glow-in-the-dark enamel
• Epoxy coating
• Pin-on-pin structure for 3D layering
• Custom backing cards with branded prints

With every new idea, we provided design insights and technical suggestions to make the vision come alive.

“Your team really understands how to translate art into metal. You’re more than a manufacturer—you’re our creative partner.”

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Trust, Beyond Transactions

It’s easy to measure orders in numbers. But what truly matters is the trust behind those numbers. This customer has now placed more than 12 separate orders, with each new project reflecting a higher level of creativity and complexity.

They’ve even recommended Hipins to other small creators and brands in their circle—something we never take for granted.

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Our Promise to Returning Customers

At Hipins, every repeat customer is treated with the care of a first-time client, and the efficiency of a long-term partner. Here’s what you can expect:

• Archived artwork and mold data for seamless reorders
• Bulk pricing advantages
• Dedicated account manager for real-time support
• Free rush production for urgent timelines
• Ongoing technical advice for new concepts

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Conclusion: A Relationship Forged in Metal

This case isn’t unique—it’s a reflection of how we work with every customer. We know that in the custom pin business, clients don’t just return because of price—they return because they feel understood, supported, and valued.

To our loyal customers: thank you for trusting Hipins with your ideas, again and again.
To future clients: we’re ready to earn your trust—one pin at a time.

✅ FAQs About Repeat Orders with Hipins

Q1: How do I place a repeat order for my custom pins?
A: Simply email us with your previous order number or artwork. We keep all mold and production records on file, so reorders are quick and easy—no need to start from scratch.

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Q2: Will the colors and quality match my previous pin order?
A: Yes. At Hipins, we archive all Pantone color references, plating types, and finishing details to ensure your reorder matches the original perfectly. Every batch is inspected under the same quality standards.

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Q3: Is there a price discount for repeat orders?
A: Absolutely. Since we already have your mold and design on file, you save on mold fees. We also offer bulk pricing and loyalty discounts for returning customers.

At Hipins, we believe that a great pin is not just a product — it’s a promise. A promise of quality, detail, and craftsmanship. In this article, we’d like to take you behind the scenes of one of our recent standout projects: a complex, multi-part pin that required meticulous precision and flawless execution.

This wasn’t just any pin. It was a split-design structure featuring a detailed character piece and a separate metal frame — two components that had to be engineered to fit together seamlessly. A small deviation in size, shape, or alignment would ruin the final effect. But thanks to our experience, technical capabilities, and relentless quality control, Hipins delivered it perfectly — and our client couldn’t have been more satisfied.

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The Challenge: A Pin with Two Perfectly Aligned Parts

Split-structure pins, sometimes called layered or assembled pins, are not for the faint of heart. Unlike standard single-piece pins, this design required two distinct molds — one for the character and one for the decorative border frame. These two parts needed to interlock without gaps, shifts, or warping.

Here’s what made it challenging:

• Tight tolerance control: Even a 0.1mm error in mold production could cause a misalignment.
• Material consistency: Metal expands or contracts slightly during plating and polishing. Without full control of the process, sizing becomes unstable.
• Assembly complexity: The two parts had to be soldered, mounted, or connected without damaging the color fill, plating, or surface texture.

To make this work, the Hipins team brought together expertise from across departments — from our mold technicians to our QC staff — to ensure the project was successful from concept to delivery.

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The Hipins Advantage: What Sets Us Apart

So, what made this project a success? It wasn’t just about machinery — it was about people, process, and precision. Here’s how Hipins stands out:

🔍 1. Engineering Accuracy

Our design and mold team work directly with the client’s artwork to calculate precise dimensional requirements. Every mold we create is CNC-milled to the tightest tolerances to guarantee consistency between parts.

🧠 2. Experienced Staff

With over 17 years in the industry, our workers are experts in handling high-complexity pins. Whether it’s detailed polishing around tight corners or manual color filling within small cavities, our team ensures every step is done right.

🛠️ 3. Full In-House Production

Unlike many suppliers who outsource, Hipins handles every stage in our own facilities — from die-striking and trimming to plating and assembly. That means better control, faster adjustments, and more accountability.

🔄 4. Strict Quality Control

Each pin is inspected multiple times throughout the process. For this project, we even produced 1:1 test samples to ensure the character component fit perfectly within the frame before proceeding with mass production.

🚚 5. On-Time Delivery with Progress Updates

We understand deadlines. That’s why we offer free rush service and regular progress updates throughout production. Our client knew exactly when to expect their pins — and got them right on schedule.

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Final Result: A Pin That Fits Like Magic

The end result? A striking, high-quality pin with two perfectly aligned components — just as the client envisioned. The layered effect added depth and texture, while the precision fit demonstrated the craftsmanship behind the scenes. Whether displayed, traded, or worn, this pin stood out as a true collector’s piece.

Projects like this aren’t just jobs for us — they’re opportunities to push the limits of pin design. And at Hipins, we’re always ready for the challenge.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can Hipins make multi-layered or assembled pins like this one?
A: Absolutely! We specialize in complex pin structures — including pin-on-pin, rotating pins, sliding pins, and multi-part assembled pins. Just share your concept and we’ll handle the engineering.

Q2: How do you ensure parts fit together perfectly in assembled pins?
A: We use precise CNC machining for our molds, control every production step in-house, and perform real-time fit testing before mass production.

Q3: What file do I need to start a custom pin order?
A: A vector file like AI, PDF, or EPS is best. If you only have a sketch or image, our design team can help turn it into production-ready artwork — free of charge.

Some pins are simple. Some are beautiful. And some… challenge everything we know about craftsmanship.

Today, we want to tell the story of one extraordinary pin — a piece so intricate, so imaginative, that most manufacturers turned it away. But at Hipins, we saw something more: a challenge worth accepting, a vision worth realizing, and a team ready to prove that no dream is too complex for those who love what they do.

🎨 The Design That Dared to Dream Big

This pin was not ordinary. It featured an elegant girl in traditional dress, surrounded by floating rabbits, floral clusters, dreamy lanterns, and a sky awash in pastel stars — all enclosed in layers of metallic lines and shimmering enamel.

With over 15+ individual enamel colors, fine gold-plated detailing, layered depth effects, and a unique silhouette, it was unlike any standard pin.

The client — a talented independent designer — had tried reaching out to various pin suppliers. Most of them declined. “Too detailed.” “Too risky.” “Too hard to produce.”

Then they found Hipins.

✋ When Others Said No, We Said “Let’s Try.

From the moment we saw the artwork, we understood two things:

1. This wasn’t going to be easy.
2. It was absolutely worth doing.

We knew the project would require a custom mold, multi-step enamel filling, manual polishing in layers, and expert-level color separation to preserve the integrity of the design. But most importantly, it required faith — both from the customer, and from our team.

At Hipins, we don’t shy away from complexity. We welcome it — because we know what it means to the creator behind the vision.

🔍 Communication Was Key

From day one, we worked hand-in-hand with the customer, reviewing every detail — from umbrella patterns to cloud gradients. We offered pre-production mockups, digital proofs, and guided the client through every manufacturing constraint and solution.

Each suggestion was met with honest, constructive feedback, and our team worked late nights to adjust outlines, resize elements for mold compatibility, and fine-tune color palette transitions.

What could’ve been a frustrating experience turned into something inspiring — a real-time collaboration built on transparency, trust, and a shared love for beauty.

✅ The Moment of Magic: Delivery Day

After several weeks of meticulous production, we finally completed the pin. When the client received the final product, they were speechless. The pin didn’t just meet their expectations — it exceeded them.

The soft gradients, shimmering gold lines, and delicate character expressions came together in a way that no image alone can describe. It was more than just a pin. It was a dream, forged in metal.

💡 The Impact on Our Team

This wasn’t just a customer win. It was a Hipins team milestone.

To every member of our workshop — from the mold engineers to the color technicians — this pin became a symbol of what we stand for. It reminded us that we’re not just making pins. We’re helping people bring their art to life.

The experience strengthened our belief: Hipins exists not just to manufacture, but to create with purpose. When we commit to a project, we’re not just taking on a job — we’re supporting an artist’s vision.

❤️ For Artists Who Dream Big

If you’re an artist with a complex, unconventional idea, we want you to know: Hipins is here for you.

Even if other factories say no, even if the details feel overwhelming — let us take a look. We love a challenge, and we love bringing imagination into reality.

Whether you’re making one pin or building an entire collection, our team will treat your artwork with the respect and dedication it deserves.

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📌 Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can Hipins handle highly complex designs with fine details?
A: Yes! As this project shows, we specialize in difficult, layered, and color-intensive pin designs. Our in-house team knows how to break down art into manufacturable components without losing artistic integrity.

Q: What if I only have a rough sketch or concept?
A: No problem — we offer free artwork assistance. Whether it’s a full illustration or just a visual idea, we’ll help turn it into a production-ready pin design.

Q: How do I know what’s possible or not in pin production?
A: Our team will walk you through it! From mold shaping to enamel limits, we explain everything clearly and help you adjust without compromising your vision.

At Hipins, we don’t just make custom pins — we build long-term creative partnerships. Behind every pin is a story of trust, collaboration, and a shared commitment to excellence. Today, we’re proud to share one such story from a customer who came for a custom design, stayed through the revisions, and returned for more.

🎨 A Vision, Turned into Metal

This journey began when an independent designer approached us with a bold and imaginative idea for a limited-edition enamel pin. The artwork was detailed, layered, and emotionally meaningful — exactly the kind of challenge we love.

From the first sketch to the initial mockup, our team at Hipins worked closely with the client to bring the vision to life. Every detail — from the shape, color palette, and metal finish to the type of backing — was carefully reviewed and adjusted based on the customer’s feedback.

🔄 The Power of Flexibility and Communication

As with many creative projects, the first proof wasn’t perfect — and that’s okay. We believe great pins are built through great collaboration. There were multiple rounds of small adjustments: tweaking the shading on a character’s face, adjusting the gradient in the background, even modifying the enamel color slightly to match the client’s brand tone.

Our promise? Unlimited revisions before production — and we stand by it.

Throughout the process, our design team responded within hours, shared digital proofs, and explained every production detail to ensure our customer felt informed and confident at every step. When changes were needed, we never hesitated to implement them quickly and professionally.

✅ Final Product, Real Results

After a few weeks of close communication and fine-tuning, we reached the final version. The finished pin was vibrant, sturdy, and precisely what the customer had envisioned — with subtle improvements made possible by our experience in pin manufacturing.

We handled the full production, quality control, packaging, and international shipping. When the client finally received the pins, their message was simple: “Perfect. Better than I imagined.”

Nothing motivates us more than that.

🔁 Trust That Brings Customers Back

The real highlight? Just a few months later, this same customer returned to Hipins for a second pin project.

This time, the process was even smoother — because we had built a shared understanding. They trusted our workflow, and we already knew their preferences. The design was completed in just two rounds of revision, and the pins shipped ahead of schedule.

For us, this isn’t just a win — it’s proof that professionalism, patience, and personal attention turn one-time orders into long-term collaborations.

🔍 Why Customers Choose Hipins Again and Again

At Hipins, we’ve been helping artists, small brands, and creators transform their ideas into high-quality pins and challenge coins for over 17 years. What makes our customers return?

• Unlimited Free Revisions Before Production
  We work until you’re 100% happy — no hidden charges, no limits.
• Responsive & Friendly Service
  You’ll always get updates within 24 hours. We listen, adapt, and explain every step.
• Factory-Direct Prices
  Because we manufacture everything ourselves, you get premium quality without the middleman markup.
• Free Artwork Assistance
  Even a rough sketch is enough — we’ll take care of the rest.
• Reliable Delivery & Transparent Logistics
  From tracking numbers to detailed packing lists, we make sure nothing gets lost in the process.

✨ Start Your Own Pin Journey

If you’re an artist, brand owner, or just someone with a unique idea, let’s bring it to life together — one pin at a time. Whether you have a detailed design or just an idea in your head, we’re here to support you from concept to delivery.

📩 Contact us today to start your custom pin project — and maybe, like many others, you’ll find your go-to pin partner in Hipins.

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1. Project Overview

A boutique collectibles brand approached Hipins with a romantic concept: a sleeping‑beauty‑inspired couple captured in a single pin, destined to be the centerpiece of a limited‑edition drop. The vision was clear—storybook lines, cinematic shading, and regal colors—but the execution required absolute precision. Over two formal revision rounds plus dozens of micro‑tweaks, Hipins’ design, production, and service teams worked in lockstep to transform early sketches into a flawless, hand‑polished reality.

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2. Client Brief & Initial Challenges

Key objectives

1. Screen‑accurate palette. The client demanded Pantone‑perfect blues, golds, and romantic reds.
2. Graceful line work. Fine outlines had to remain crisp after plating; no loss of definition allowed.
3. Large format without warping. At 80 mm tall, the pin needed reinforced posts and anti‑warp gating.

Pain points identified

• The client’s initial art used CMYK references rather than Pantone chips, introducing color‑matching risk.
• Several curls of hair and the male lead’s sleeve required line thickness below 0.15 mm—near the tolerance limit of soft enamel.
• A layered shading request (subtle dress highlights) challenged traditional color boundaries for a single‑layer pin.

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3. The Iteration Journey

Milestone	Action Taken	Result
Version A	Imported CMYK art, generated Pantone conversion, flagged 11 risky lines, shared mock‑up.	Client approved palette but requested brighter skin tone & adjusted hair curl.
Revision 1	Modified skin to Pantone 2367, thickened five hair strands, added shading split lines.	Client loved hair but wanted deeper red on sleeve; line adjusting still needed.
Revision 2	Switched sleeve red to Pantone 2077, re‑tuned line weight under microscope, added a 0.05 mm offset to avoid merging after plating.	Client signed off 100 % on digital proof; green‑lit mold cutting.
Pre‑Production Sample	Delivered fully plated, enamel‑filled sample with high‑resolution photos and a hand‑held video under daylight.	Client requested only one micro‑adjustment: crown gem sparkle screen‑print layer.
Final Approval	Added screen‑print highlight, shipped second sample within 48 h.	“Perfect—go to mass production.”

Total calendar time from first contact to mass‑production green light: 26 days.

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4. Innovation Highlights

Innovation	Why It Mattered
Digital Shadow Simulation	Our CAD team overlaid semi‑transparent layers to preview enamel depth, ensuring the dress highlights didn’t flatten after fill.
AI‑Assisted Pantone Mapping	A custom script compared CMYK source values with our 1,800‑color Pantone database to recommend the top three matches by ΔE < 2.0.
Micro‑laser Line Thickeners	For sub‑0.15 mm paths, we used laser engraving to deepen channels by 0.02 mm, allowing enamel to seat without overflow.
Reinforced Post Architecture	Two 0.9 mm posts sit on a hidden crossbar to resist bending at large format sizes.
Eco‑Choice Plating Baths	We switched to a cyanide‑free gold bath; same luster, reduced environmental load, approved by the client’s sustainability team.

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5. Quality Assurance & Delivery

1. Mold Precision — CNC‑milled steel die with <0.01 mm variation, verified by optical comparator.
2. Enamel Filling — Soft enamel placed by syringe, followed by a two‑stage bake: 160 °C for base cure, 180 °C flash set.
3. Polishing — Three‑step (coarse, fine, jewel rouge) hand polish beneath 600‑lux lighting for scratch detection.
4. Electro‑Plating — 0.25 µm gold layer, then anti‑tarnish dip for extended shelf life.
5. Screen Print & Epoxy — Crown gem received a micro sparkle print beneath optically clear epoxy, adding jewel depth.
6. 100 % Inspection — Every pin viewed under 5× optic; tolerance for enamel pits: ≤0.05 mm. Final batch defect rate: 0.6 % (well below our 1.5 % ceiling).
7. Protective Packaging — Each pin mounted on velvet‑touch backer, inserted into plant‑based OPP sleeve, topped with corner‑guard carton inserts.

Dispatch left Shanghai on a Wednesday and hit the client’s U.S. fulfillment center the following Monday—two days ahead of launch.

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6. Project Outcome

• Sell‑through: Entire 500‑piece edition sold out in 41 minutes.
• Social Buzz: #FairyTalePin received 1,600 user posts within 72 h; most praised color accuracy and romantic pose.
• Client Quote: “Hipins lived up to every promise—fast, flexible, and pixel perfect. Our toughest revision cycle to date, yet the smoothest execution.”
• Return Business: Client placed two follow‑up orders the next quarter, including a glitter variant and matching charm series.

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7. Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ	Answer
How many revision rounds are included in standard pricing?	We include up to three digital revision rounds at no extra cost. Minor color swaps or line tweaks inside those rounds are unlimited.
What if I need physical samples before mass production?	One painted sample is complimentary. Extra variants incur only the courier fee.
Can Hipins match non‑Pantone references?	Yes. Provide RGB, CMYK, or physical swatches; our AI mapping tool converts them into the closest Pantone formulas.
How do you prevent large pin from warping?	We add hidden crossbars, use thicker brass (≥1.8 mm), and employ controlled cooling racks to relieve thermal stress.
What plating options are eco‑friendly?	Our cyanide‑free 14 K gold, nickel‑free black dye, and recycled copper plating meet RoHS & REACH standards.
Typical timeline from concept to shipping?	Digital proofing: 5‑7 days. Mold & sample: 10‑12 days. Mass production: 12‑15 days. Shipping: 3‑5 days express.
Minimum order quantity?	50 piece per design, but volume discounts trigger at 100, 250, and 500.
Are there hidden fees?	No setup or mold charges are hidden; all costs appear in the first quotation, including optional add‑ons like glow enamel or glitter.

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8. Key Takeaways & Next Steps

1. Transparent Communication Saves Days. Real‑time photo and video proofs eliminated guesswork and kept the project under 30 days.
2. Tech + Craft = Zero‑Compromise Detail. AI color mapping and laser‑enabled micro‑lines let us honor the original art without inflating cost.
3. Eco Minded, Premium Finish. Clients no longer have to choose between sustainability and shine.
4. Flex Wins Loyalty. Accommodating late‑stage color tweaks built trust that translated straight into repeat orders.

1. Setting the Stage: A Client with a Celestial Vision

When an American art brand approached Hipins to create a Sailor‑inspired collectible, their brief was crystal clear: “We want a layered pin that captures cosmic energy, pastel magic, and uncompromising detail.” The concept called for a two‑tier pin on pin structure—an upper character layer floating over a dreamy background scene—so that every fan could hold a miniature galaxy in the palm of a hand. From day one, both teams agreed that only meticulous craftsmanship could transform such an ambitious idea into a tangible, shimmering reality.

2. From Sketch to Digital Blueprint

Our in‑house design crew kicked off with iterative sketches to lock down proportions between the primary hero layer and the background disc. Once our client approved the silhouettes, we converted artwork into vector files, assigned Pantone references for each enamel fill, and simulated shadow depth to ensure that, once stacked, the upper layer would cast just enough natural shade to achieve a 3‑D pop. Early digital proofs also mapped drill points for the posts that would ultimately unite the two metal layers into one sturdy, seamless pin.

3. Engineering the Pin on Pin Architecture

A pin on pin project is always an engineering dance:

1. Mold & Die Creation – We milled two separate steel dies, each engraved with a different tier of the design.
2. Blank Stamping – Brass sheets were stamped, trimmed, and deburred to produce perfectly crisp blanks for both tiers.
3. Post Alignment – We added extra‑long posts on the top tier so they could pass through the lower tier and solder cleanly, guaranteeing durability without visible weld marks.
4. Tolerance Testing – Micron‑level checks confirmed that stacked layers would align under ±0.05 mm variance—critical for symmetrical visuals.

4. Breathing Color into Metal

With raw metal anatomy perfected, we moved to the color lab:

• Soft Enamel Filling – A pastel palette of blush pink, starlight yellow, and galaxy violet filled recessed areas. Capillary action ensured even spread without overflow.
• Glitter & Transparent Inks – For the magical staff and gemstone elements, we mixed iridescent flakes with transparent base to catch light from every angle.
• Spot Screen Printing – Micro printing added white highlights in the eyes, giving life to the character layer.
• Epoxy Dome for the Crystal – A micro dome over the top gem brought extra depth, magnifying the geometric facets underneath.

Drying rooms set at 180 °C locked color in under ten minutes per cycle, preventing dust intrusion and color shift.

5. Perfecting the Finish

Surface finishing can make or break a pin. We chose:

• 14 K Champagne Gold Plating – Warmer than standard gold, it complements pastel colors without overpowering them.
• Luxury Hand Polishing – Each edge and star was buffed three times, moving from 320‑grit to jewel rouge, achieving a mirror sheen.
• Anti‑Scratch Clear Coat – A nano‑layer seal keeps the front face fingerprint‑free during handling at conventions.

Only after all finishing steps were both tiers ultrasonically cleaned, oven‑dried, and moved to the assembly line.

6. Assembly: Where Two Become One

Using custom jigs, our technicians inserted extended posts of the upper layer through the background tier, applied lead‑free silver solder, and flash‑heated joints for two seconds. This rapid, localized heat prevented enamel reflow yet delivered rock‑solid bonding. Each assembled unit then underwent a drop test—80 cm onto softwood—to verify no lateral shift between tiers.

7. Quality Control & Client Communication

Throughout the 28‑day cycle, we issued four milestone reports:

1. CAD approval
2. First article photo set
3. Mid‑production color check video
4. Final assembly inspection sheet

Real‑time messaging ensured our client could request tweaks—like widening the gemstone outline by 0.1 mm—without disrupting the timeline. In the final QC round, we scrutinized 100 % of units under 5× magnification, rejecting any with color pits larger than 0.05 mm. The accepted batch posted a defect rate of just 0.8 %, well below our 1.5 % internal threshold.

8. Packaging & Logistics

Collectors value presentation, so each pin rested on a custom‑printed backer card wrapped in a biodegradable OPP sleeve. We added corner guards to carton interiors, reduced vibration with eco‑friendly honeycomb pillows, and provided our client with a detailed packing list plus FedEx tracking before departure. Delivery reached the U.S. West Coast warehouse in four days—two days ahead of schedule—thanks to our complimentary priority upgrade.

9. Results & Client Feedback

Post‑launch, the art brand sold out its limited 200‑piece run in under 38 minutes. On social media, the hashtag #SailorSkyPin racked up 1,200 user‑generated posts within a week, many praising the layered depth and glimmering details. The client’s founder called it “our smoothest custom pin project to date—flawless execution from sketch to doorstep.” They have since re‑ordered a second batch and green‑lit two new concepts, cementing a long‑term partnership.

10. Key Takeaways for Your Next Pin on Pin Project

• Early Layer Planning – Define depth hierarchy in the first sketch to avoid costly re‑tooling.
• Post Length Matters – Longer posts equal stronger bonds; never compromise on stability for aesthetics.
• Color + Metal Harmony – Match plating warmth to enamel tone to keep the overall palette cohesive.
• Transparent Communication – Scheduled milestone reports slash uncertainty and keep creatives in control.
• Collector‑Ready Packaging – The unboxing moment is part of the value; invest in thoughtful presentation.

11. Ready to Build Your Own Layered Masterpiece?

Hipins has delivered high‑detail pin on pin projects for artists, studios, and brands worldwide since 2007. Whether you want two layers or a daring triple stack, our one‑stop workflow—from free digital mock‑ups to priority shipping—turns your concept into a hand‑held art piece without the stress.

1 | The Creative Brief

When a long‑time client approached us with a dynamic fantasy character wielding elemental magic, they had one goal: turn a flat illustration into a collectible pin that felt alive in the hand. Our design team examined the artwork and immediately proposed a pin‑on‑pin structure plus translucent clouds to capture motion and depth. Within 24 hours the client received three rendering options, free of charge, each showing how extra layers, selective plating and special enamels would amplify the art while protecting every fine line.

2 | CNC Mold‑Carving: Precision in Steel

Great pins start with great molds. In our Kunshan facility we run a dedicated, climate‑controlled mold shop equipped with 5‑axis CNC mills and fine‑wire EDM. The character’s hair strands, weapon filigree and swirling smoke were first separated into two mold levels: a primary plate for the main silhouette and a secondary plate for the raised foreground layer. Cutting tolerances stay within ±0.01 mm, ensuring metal walls are sharp enough to hold even the thinnest enamel cells.

3 | Stamping the Blanks

Once the hardened molds passed inspection, we transferred them to our 80‑ton hydraulic presses. Copper sheets—selected for their balance of malleability and edge retention—were stamped repeatedly to form crisp, burr‑free blanks. Because the design has multiple internal cut‑outs, we used a progressive die that punches and trims in one cycle, minimizing alignment error and giving each blank an ultra‑clean profile ready for plating.

4 | Fusing Layers – The “Pin‑on‑Pin” Advantage

To deliver genuine three‑dimensionality (without exotic casting costs), we soldered a second, smaller blank to the base at exact datum points laid out during CAD planning. This pin‑on‑pin method creates real height—not just etched recesses—and lets colors on different planes stay perfectly flush. Customers love the tactile step effect; we love that it requires zero extra mold fees once the secondary plate is made.

5 | Mirror‑Polish & Micro‑Deburring

Before any metal touches a plating bath, our polishing team uses a three‑stage workflow: rough wheel, sisal wheel, then cotton buff with jeweler’s compound. Corners are taped off so high points keep their definition while broad surfaces reach a mirror finish. We also do a vibro‑tumblestone pass to remove microscopic burrs; smoother walls mean cleaner color fills later and reduce the risk of dust specks that can ruin clear enamel.

6 | Dual‑Tone Plating: Gold + Black Nickel

For drama we suggested a combination the client hadn’t tried: 24 k gold on the upper layer and black nickel on the base. Our automated 12‑station barrel line applies each finish in computer‑controlled cycles, then seals them with an eco‑friendly anti‑tarnish coat. Because different metals demand different voltage curves, we plate the pieces in separate baskets and assemble the layers after plating to keep color boundaries razor‑sharp.

7 | Color Lab – Where Pigments Become Magic

This pin showcases five enamel styles:

Effect	Where Used	Benefit
Hard enamel	Armor plates, boots	Flush glossy surface, feels premium
Translucent enamel	Smoky cloud	Lets engraved texture shine through
Glitter enamel	Gemstones at the base	Adds light‑catching sparkle
Pearlescent additive	Energy swirl	Subtle iridescence when tilted
Screen‑printed highlight	Facial linework	Ultra‑fine details not possible in metal

Every pigment is mixed in‑house against a digital photo‑spectrometer, guaranteeing repeat batches land within ΔE 2.0 of the approved proof.

8 | Oven‑Curing & Ultra‑Flat Sanding

After color filling, pins travel through a 200 °C conveyor oven for 60 minutes to hard‑cure the enamel. Once cooled, the piece is block‑sanded on precision grinders so every color sits perfectly level with the metal borders. The result is that smooth, “one‑piece” feel collectors expect from top‑tier pins.

9 | Epoxy Dome? Optional, but We Innovated

Most factories simply add a clear epoxy dome, but that can mute metallic shine. Instead, we offered the client our “Halo Clear” finish—a 50 µm optically clear resin applied only to the translucent clouds. It deepens color without hiding gold lines and protects against scratches where it matters most.

10 | Laser Engraving & Serialization

Collectors love authenticity, so each pin back received a fiber‑laser engraving with the edition size and unique serial number. Our conveyor setup engraves 300 units/hour while vision cameras auto‑reject any plate with off‑center marks.

11 | 40‑Point Quality Check

Quality isn’t a buzzword—it’s a checklist. Highlights include:

• 2× magnification inspection of every enamel cell
• Tape‑pull adhesion test on screen‑printed highlights
• 48‑hour salt‑spray on random samples for plating durability
• Drop test of mounted posts to ensure solder joints won’t fail

Only pins scoring 98 % or higher progress to packaging.

12 | Sustainable Packaging That Sells

Our design team provided a recycled‑paper backing card printed in soy ink, plus a compostable PLA zip‑pouch. The client’s logo is UV‑spotted to pop on retail shelves, and each pouch includes a QR code linking to a short “Making Of” video—turning simple packaging into a marketing asset.

13 | Logistics & After‑Sales Transparency

Because we are factory‑direct, the finished order moved from our dock to the client’s warehouse in six days via UPS Expedited. A real‑time tracking dashboard (unique to Hipins) pushed automatic milestone emails—“QC Complete,” “Packed,” “In Transit”—so the client never had to ask for updates. Post‑delivery, we followed up within 24 hours for feedback and offered a free design review on their next concept.

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Why Clients Choose Hipins

• Speed with zero compromise – 10‑day turnaround on complex multi‑layer pins
• In‑house everything – molds, plating, color lab, laser marking and packaging under one roof
• Creative agility – unlimited free revisions until the proof feels perfect
• Data‑driven QC – every batch logged, graded and traceable for five years
• Sustainability – RoHS‑compliant metals, water‑recycling plating lines, eco‑packaging by default
• People who care – specialist account managers who answer within two business hours, every time

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Ready to Transform Your Idea into a Collectible Pin?

Whether you have a polished illustration or just a rough sketch, Hipins can help you engineer it into an unforgettable pin that dazzles fans and drives revenue. Send your concept today, and let’s start crafting your next bestseller.

Pin on Pin is a layered pin-making technique where multiple metal pieces are stacked and permanently attached to create a three-dimensional effect. Instead of a flat, single-layer pin, Pin on Pin allows for separate elements—like logos, characters, emblems, or text—to be elevated above the base design. This gives the pin both visual and physical depth, making it more engaging to the eye and to the touch.

Each layer can be produced using different colors, finishes, or even materials. The result? A pin that looks complex, polished, and premium—perfect for those who want more than just the basics.

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How It’s Made: A Layered Process

Creating a Pin on Pin pin is more complex than a standard enamel pin—but the result is worth it. Here’s a simplified version of the production workflow we follow at Hipins:

1. Design & 3D Modeling
   We begin with your artwork or idea. Our in-house design team creates a layered digital mockup showing how each component will stack and interact.
2. Mold Creation
   Each layer requires its own mold. Our factory uses high-precision CNC and die-casting to produce molds that ensure perfect fit and alignment.
3. Base & Layer Production
   Base pins and top pieces are cast or struck separately, often using materials like copper, zinc alloy, or iron, depending on the design’s complexity.
4. Plating & Surface Treatment
   We offer a wide range of finishes—gold, silver, antique brass, matte black, rainbow anodized, and more. Each piece is plated individually before assembly.
5. Color Filling
   Soft or hard enamel is filled into recessed areas. This step is often done separately for each layer to preserve clean lines and color separation.
6. Assembly
   Layers are fixed using rivets, welding, or industrial adhesive, depending on the design’s needs. We ensure zero movement and perfect alignment.
7. Final Polishing & QC
   The fully assembled pin is polished, cleaned, and inspected. Our team performs multiple quality checks to guarantee consistency across the order.

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Why Choose Pin on Pin?

So what makes Pin on Pin worth the extra steps? Here are some key benefits:

• True 3D Effect
  Unlike faux 3D printed textures or embossed surfaces, Pin on Pin physically raises parts of your design to a new level—literally.
• Color and Finish Separation
  Want a matte background and a glossy logo? Gold behind a colorful mascot? Pin on Pin lets you mix and match effects without compromise.
• Greater Design Flexibility
  You can include more detail, finer lines, and layered storytelling in your design. This is especially valuable for fantasy pins, gaming pins, and character art.
• Luxury Look and Feel
  Because of the added weight and depth, Pin on Pin feels more substantial in hand. It instantly communicates higher quality and exclusivity.
• Collectibility
  Limited-edition series, artist collabs, and convention exclusives benefit hugely from the Pin on Pin format. Collectors love them—and notice the difference.

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Use Cases: Who Should Use Pin on Pin?

Pin on Pin is popular across a wide range of industries and communities. Some of our most frequent customers include:

• Corporate Clients: Custom logo pins for executives, events, and VIP recognition
• Collectors & Artists: Limited runs of fantasy pins or highly detailed fan art
• Events & Conventions: Premium pin passes, con-exclusive collectibles
• Schools & Organizations: Honor pins, award pins, and alumni keepsakes
• Retail Brands: Boutique product drops with high perceived value

If you’re looking to create a product that represents your brand with style and craftsmanship, Pin on Pin is the way to go.

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Why Hipins? Factory-Direct Excellence

At Hipins, we don’t just offer Pin on Pin—we master it.

• 🏭 Factory-Owned: We produce everything in-house at our facility near Shanghai. No outsourcing. No delays.
• 🎨 Free Design Service: You send an idea—we’ll send back a free design and unlimited revisions in 24 hours.
• 📦 Fast Production: Standard turnaround in 3–4 weeks. Need it fast? Ask us about free rush options.
• 💰 Wholesale Pricing: Factory-direct pricing means you get better value for high-volume orders.
• 🔧 Customization Control: Choose from dozens of plating, enamel, and accessory options.
• 📈 Reliable Service: We’ve worked with U.S. brands and pin artists since 2007. Over 80% of our customers return for repeat orders.

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Start Your Pin on Pin Project Today

Whether you’re designing for a brand, a fandom, or a milestone event, Pin on Pin can take your project from good to unforgettable. With Hipins, you’re not just ordering pins—you’re building a piece of wearable art.

When people think about custom pins, they often focus on design, enamel type, or plating finish. But here’s the truth:

A great pin isn’t complete without the perfect accessory.
And at Hipins, we don’t just make high-quality pins—we engineer complete pin experiences.

🧷 Why Accessories Matter in Custom Pin Design

Pin accessories are not just functional tools that keep your pin in place—they define how your pin is worn, where it’s displayed, and who it speaks to.

At Hipins, we offer a full range of pin accessories to meet different needs, styles, and scenarios. Whether it’s for fashion, commemoration, corporate identity, or creative expression, our accessories add that extra spark that transforms a pin into something personal.

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🧩 Real Use, Real People: Accessory Scenarios That Work

💼 Case 1: The Corporate Executive – Magnetic Backing

A Fortune 500 client recently approached us to produce a series of elegant recognition pins for their leadership program. The challenge? Their employees wore tailored suits every day, and punching holes through expensive fabrics wasn’t an option.

Our Solution: A polished pin design with strong magnetic backings, allowing secure wear without damaging clothing.
Result: A classy, hole-free solution that reflected the brand’s prestige—delivered with style and precision.

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🎒 Case 2: The College Club – Rubber Clutches in Colors

A university’s LGBTQ+ alliance wanted to create pins for their Pride event—something fun, safe, and full of color. They wanted to hand them out during campus activities and wear them on backpacks and jackets.

Our Suggestion: Soft enamel pins paired with colorful rubber clutches—pink, blue, purple—to match the theme.
Why it worked: Rubber clutches are not only comfortable and secure but also playful and youth-friendly—perfect for their active crowd.

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🎁 Case 3: The Collector’s Edition – Decorative Chains and Charms

A fantasy pin artist teamed up with us to release a limited edition series of galaxy-themed pins. She wanted something more than just enamel and metal—she wanted the pin to tell a story.

Our idea: We added silver chains and dangling star-shaped charms to each pin.
The result? Her customers raved. The accessory transformed a beautiful pin into a collectible art piece, complete with movement and visual impact.

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🛠️ Types of Accessories We Offer

• Butterfly Clutch & Safety Clasp: Classic, secure, and ideal for general wear.
• Magnetic Backing: Perfect for suits, uniforms, and premium gift pins.
• Rubber Clutch: Comfortable grip, available in multiple colors. Great for kids or event pins.
• Chains & Key Rings: Turn your pin into a keychain or bag charm.
• Decorative Charms: Add beads, mini pendants, or dangles to make your pin pop.
• Custom Requests: Have a unique idea? We can source or create a custom accessory just for you.

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🎨 Accessory as an Extension of Your Brand

A pin isn’t just a pin—it’s a statement. And the accessory you choose speaks volumes.

• Want elegance? Go magnetic.
• Need durability? Go safety clasp.
• Selling merch? Add a keyring.
• Designing for kids or events? Rubber clutches are your friend.

At Hipins, we’re not just manufacturers—we’re your creative production partner. Our accessory options allow you to match purpose with style, protect delicate garments, and extend the function of your pin beyond clothing.

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💡 Why Choose Hipins for Pin Accessories?

✅ Over 17 years of metal gift manufacturing experience
✅ In-house accessory sourcing and QC process
✅ Creative support for custom requests
✅ Professional guidance to match pin use with the right attachment
✅ Factory-direct pricing with no middlemen
✅ Every order gets a full accessory checklist before shipping

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📦 One Pin, Endless Possibilities

No matter who you are—a business leader, collector, artist, or event organizer—we help you make pins that work for real life.

From formalwear to backpacks, commemorations to everyday carry, Hipins accessories make sure your pin stays secure, looks great, and fits your world.

Let’s build your next pin—and everything that comes with it.

Small Pins, Big Stories. Since 2007, We Turn Your Ideas into Wearable Art

In 2007, a small factory was born in Kunshan, China, just 40 miles from Shanghai. At a time when most were focused on mass production and low-cost shortcuts, we at HIPINS decided to pursue a different path — one paved with craftsmanship, creativity, and above all, trust.

What started as a modest workshop for custom metal gifts has since evolved into a full-scale manufacturing powerhouse specializing in lapel pins, challenge coins, medals, patches, and other promotional collectibles. Today, HIPINS stands as a trusted partner to artists, designers, wholesalers, and brands around the world.

Built on Trust, Designed with Heart

We live by the principle: “Built on trust, designed with heart — HIPINS crafts every pin like it’s our first.”

Trust isn’t just a value for us; it’s the foundation of every order we take. From our earliest clients in 2007 to global partners today, we’ve built long-term relationships by honoring deadlines, providing fair pricing, and communicating with clarity.

When a U.S. military memorabilia brand approached us for their challenge coins, they were hesitant. They had tried several suppliers and faced delays and inconsistent quality. We not only delivered on time but also created coins with a refined antique finish that exceeded their expectations. Today, they are one of our most loyal clients, with over 50 custom designs produced annually.

Every Pin is a Story

A lapel pin may be small, but it tells a story. Whether it’s a Disney-inspired fantasy world, a punk rock logo, or a pride flag worn on a jacket, each pin is an idea made real.

In 2021, an indie game developer from Canada reached out with a dream: to create a pin set that reflected the characters from their game. These were complex designs, involving multi-layered enamel fills, transparent gradients, and UV highlights. Our design team provided free digital mockups within 12 hours. The final set included glow-in-the-dark effects and layered metal, shipped in custom backing cards. The result? Their Kickstarter campaign hit its funding goal within 48 hours, with fans raving about the pins.

Technical Excellence, Artistic Passion

Our production process is more than just machines. It’s a blend of precise technique and human artistry:

• Die-striking and Molding: Every mold is carved with sharp precision to ensure clean edges.
• Color Filling and Epoxy: We apply each color by hand. Our epoxy is crystal-clear, bubble-free, and hardened to perfection.
• Plating and Polishing: Whether it’s gold, antique silver, or rainbow plating, every finish is chosen to elevate your design.
• Strict QC Standards: Every batch undergoes multiple inspections before packaging. No shortcuts. No compromises.

One of our proudest innovations came in 2023, when we introduced multi-texture layering. A designer from the UK wanted a 3D dragon pin that looked “alive.” Using a blend of raised lines, recessed soft enamel, and sandblasted backgrounds, we gave the dragon scales a shimmering, lifelike appearance. That pin became a best-seller at London Comic Con.

Service Beyond Production

What truly sets HIPINS apart is not just what we make, but how we serve:

• Free Artwork & Unlimited Revisions: Delivered in 24 hours, because we know timing matters.
• Factory Direct Pricing: No middlemen. Better margins for wholesalers.
• Rush Delivery with No Extra Cost: Your deadlines are our mission.
• Real-Time Order Updates: From mold approval to plating, you stay in the loop.
• Complete Transparency: Packing lists, shipping details, QC photos — you see it all.

A Factory That Feels Like Family

Many of our workers have been with us for over a decade. Their experience shows in every perfect polish, every tiny hand-filled detail. In 2017, we expanded to a larger facility in Anhui, giving us more space to innovate and more capacity to serve large-scale orders without compromising quality.

Looking Ahead: Your Story, Our Mission

As we grow, we remain anchored to our original promise: to turn your ideas into wearable art. Whether you’re a small artist launching your first merch, or a global brand seeking a trusted production partner, HIPINS is here not just to produce, but to create, collaborate, and deliver.

Small pins. Big stories. Let us help you tell yours.

A Vision with Heart 🎨racters. Their goal was to create a pin that not only looked beautiful but carried emotional meaning — a tribute to legacy and nostalgia.

The original artwork was detailed and ambitious, with multiple characters, overlapping color zones, and a braided ornamental border. We provided mold guidance, suggested line optimization to prevent color overflow, and recommended antique gold plating to elevate the vintage fantasy tone 👑. The client was delighted with the digital mockup, and mold carving began immediately.

Everything Was on Track… Until It Wasn’t 🔄

Midway through the sampling phase — mold finished, enamel zones mapped, and plating approved — the client sent us an unexpected message: their illustrator needed to make significant revisions. One of the magical characters had to be redrawn, and the background scene adjusted for better balance.

At this stage, most suppliers might push back or charge reworking fees. But at Hipins, we didn’t flinch. We knew the story behind this piece meant a lot to the client. Our project manager quickly responded: “Don’t worry, we’ll take care of it. Just send the updated artwork, and we’ll walk you through what needs adjusting.”

Realignment in Action 🛠️

Our design department halted the mold approval and re-processed the new artwork within 24 hours. Because the character position changed, the outline needed to be fully remapped, which also meant editing enamel regions. We provided a new technical proof with color swatches and gold fill options the same day.

Meanwhile, production re-allocated time on the engraving machine to ensure this new mold could be fast-tracked without impacting other customers. Our plating team double-checked the antique finish samples under natural and artificial light, ensuring the background and braided frame would still maintain depth without overpowering the newly rebalanced character designs.

Every time the client had a concern — from eye detail to cape fold direction — we answered with direct side-by-side visuals. Within 3 days, the revised mold and enamel proof were fully confirmed.

No Delays, No Shortcuts ✅

Despite the rework, the production timeline remained unchanged. The entire batch was filled, baked, polished, and plated with the same attention to detail we give all premium projects. Our QC team triple-checked each pin: the braid border was symmetrical, colors were properly separated, and the expressions on the three figures were sharp and expressive.

When the client received the photos of the final samples, they replied instantly:

“I actually teared up — this came out even better than I had imagined. Thank you for not only adjusting quickly but treating this with care.”

We shipped the full order on time, packed with our custom card backing and protective velvet pouch.

The Hipins Difference 🌟

What this project showed wasn’t just technical expertise — it was empathy in action. Every department at Hipins, from design to plating to packing, aligned under one purpose: support the customer, no matter what changes come.

• When design changes came last minute, we adapted 🔧
• When the client asked for visual comparisons, we over-delivered 📸
• When deadlines felt tight, we pulled resources to stay on track ⏱️

Why It Matters 💡

This isn’t a story about a mistake — it’s a story about how good manufacturers work when real life happens. Your illustrator might revise a sketch. Your layout might evolve. Your vision might shift. That’s normal. What matters is having a partner that doesn’t panic or point fingers — one that rolls up their sleeves and says, “Let’s make this work.” 💼

So if you’re searching for a pin manufacturer who won’t just deliver products, but who understands the creative process, the human part of collaboration, and the pride behind every idea — we’re right here, ready to work with you. 🤝

At Hipins, we don’t just make pins. We bring stories to life. 💫

A Deep Dive into Two Fantasy-Inspired Pins That Redefine Custom Craftsmanship

When it comes to custom pin manufacturing, consistency, craftsmanship, and trust are everything. At Hipins, we’re proud to be more than just a factory — we’re a trusted creative partner for collectors, artists, and small brands around the world.

Two of our most recent creations — stunning, fantasy-inspired character pins — are perfect examples of how high standards, seamless communication, and expert execution can come together to create something exceptional.

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🌟 From Concept to Completion — With No Sampling Needed

While most manufacturers require multiple rounds of sampling, color tests, or even significant design changes to get a pin right, these two pieces were approved for full production with zero revisions and no sampling phase. That’s right — we went directly from artwork to mass production.

Why? Because the client trusted us.

And we earned that trust by doing what we do best: asking the right questions, offering guidance early, and ensuring that our process is built to support creative accuracy from the start.

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✨ A Closer Look at the Pins

The first pin features an elf-like female archer set against an intricate Art Nouveau-inspired background. Details like metallic vines, ancient text, and soft pastel tones create a layered and elegant design that required exacting precision in mold carving and enamel color separation.

The second pin features a dual-character profile — a warrior and a wolf in perfect harmony — framed with laurel leaves and gold lines. The design required balanced layering, sharp edge definition, and a flawless transition between multiple metal and enamel finishes.

Both pins are crafted using hard enamel, with polished gold plating and delicate screen printing for the smallest text. No bleeding, no overfilling, no misalignment — just clean, professional execution from top to bottom.

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🧠 Professionalism Beyond Production

What truly set this project apart was not just the beauty of the final result, but the professionalism of the journey.

From the first message, our team provided prompt technical feedback, recommended the best plating and enamel combinations, and ensured that the designer’s original vision remained intact.

Our production managers reviewed the artwork with both engineering and artistic insight, suggesting mold depths, outlining areas for screen printing, and double-checking proportions before casting began. This level of proactive communication meant fewer surprises and faster timelines.

No detail was left to chance — because for us, “custom” doesn’t just mean unique designs. It means custom attention, custom support, and custom excellence.

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🔁 Fewer Revisions = Faster Delivery

One of the biggest advantages of working with a professional pin manufacturer like Hipins is speed without compromise.

By eliminating unnecessary sampling steps, we were able to move into mass production much faster than average — without risking quality. This not only saved our client time and budget, but also reinforced our reputation as a factory that gets things right the first time.

When artists or brands are launching time-sensitive collections or limited edition drops, this kind of reliability makes all the difference.

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💬 Why Our Clients Trust Us

This project is just one of many where clients have expressed deep appreciation for our skill, speed, and care. Here’s what we often hear:

• “You understood my artwork better than I expected.”
• “The pins came out exactly like the mockup — or better.”
• “I felt like you were on my team, not just taking an order.”

Trust is earned — not claimed. At Hipins, every order is a chance to prove that we deserve it.

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🔍 Behind the Scenes: How We Do It

Here’s a quick look at what happens behind every flawless pin we deliver:

1. Artwork Review – We check your file for technical precision, color accuracy, and production feasibility.
2. Mold Development – 3D engraving or die struck mold carving, optimized to retain line detail.
3. Enamel Filling – Either soft or hard enamel depending on the project, filled with Pantone-matched colors.
4. Polishing & Plating – Smooth finish, sharp shine, and high-end plating (gold, nickel, black dye, etc.)
5. Screen Printing – For small details or text too fine for mold carving.
6. Quality Control – Every pin is inspected by hand before packaging.

All steps are performed in-house, under the same roof — which means tighter control and faster response time.

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🚀 Let’s Bring Your Vision to Life

Whether you’re an experienced pin designer or just starting your first fantasy concept, Hipins is here to support you with expert guidance, top-tier craftsmanship, and responsive service.

These two stunning pins are a testament to what happens when art meets experience — and when quality is not just promised, but proven.

If you’re looking for a manufacturer that respects your vision, delivers without excuses, and turns ideas into collector-worthy pins, we’d love to chat.

At Hipins, pins aren’t just products — they are symbols of stories, brands, achievements, and creativity. For over 17 years, we’ve specialized in manufacturing high-quality custom pins, challenge coins, medals, and other metal promotional items. But beyond the years of experience lies a much deeper strength: a team of craftsmen, engineers, and service professionals committed to excellence at every stage.

If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to turn a rough sketch into a shimmering, perfectly detailed enamel pin, this post takes you behind the scenes — into the process, people, and purpose behind Hipins.

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🎯 Who We Are

Founded just outside of Shanghai in Kunshan, China, Hipins has grown from a small pin workshop to a full-scale production factory with in-house design, mold-making, casting, coloring, polishing, and plating capabilities. Since 2007, we’ve served thousands of customers across North America, Europe, and beyond — from artists and indie brands to global wholesalers and event organizers.

What sets us apart isn’t just what we make — it’s how we make it.

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🛠️ What We Do Best: Crafting High-Quality Custom Pins

Our specialty is custom pins of all kinds — from soft and hard enamel pins to 3D die-cast styles, glow-in-the-dark finishes, glitter accents, translucent enamel, and more. Whether you’re after a fantasy-style collector’s pin, a branded product for retail, or a high-volume order for events or campaigns — we can handle it.

Every pin begins with artwork — yours or ours. We offer free artwork and unlimited revisions, delivered within 24 hours. Our design team will help you optimize every detail: line thickness, enamel fill, glow placement, metal finishes, and even back stamp engraving.

From there, our in-house team takes over:

• Mold making & die striking — precision molds for sharp details
• Zinc or iron base casting — durable, high-quality foundations
• Enameling — manual or machine coloring for accuracy
• Polishing — smooth finishing without damaging recessed areas
• Plating — options include gold, silver, antique brass, rainbow, black nickel, and more
• Packaging — bulk, backing cards, or retail-ready display boxes

We control every step — which means better quality, faster lead times, and consistent results.

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👷 Skilled Workers. Real Craftsmanship.

Many of our team members have 10+ years of experience in the promotional metal gift industry. From enamel application to plating quality control, they are true masters of their craft.

This matters especially in intricate or fantasy-style designs, where small errors can ruin the visual integrity. Our artisans work with extreme precision — often under magnification — to ensure that colors stay sharp, lines are clean, and every pin looks just like the approved artwork.

We don’t just make pins — we craft collectibles.

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💡 Innovation + Responsiveness = Long-Term Trust

Being a trusted partner means more than just delivering a product. We pride ourselves on being responsive, flexible, and proactive. Our clients get:

• Regular order updates
• Production previews upon request
• 24/7 support via email or message
• On-time delivery, with RUSH options available at no extra charge

This is one reason we’ve been working with U.S. and European wholesalers for over a decade. We’ve helped them scale their pin businesses confidently — without the stress of delayed deliveries or inconsistent quality.

In fact, one of our clients, a major comic event organizer in California, once said:

“Working with Hipins feels like having an extension of our own team overseas. They care about our timeline and our fans just as much as we do.”

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🌍 Responsible Production in a Changing World

Today’s clients want more than just quality — they want accountability and sustainability. That’s why Hipins uses:

• Non-toxic, eco-friendly enamels and glow pigments
• Reusable packaging options on request
• Strict internal QC processes to reduce waste
• Worker safety & ethical production standards

In a time where cheap copies and unethical sourcing are common, we offer peace of mind and full transparency.

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🧲 Who We Work With

Over the years, we’ve collaborated with:

• Disney-style fan creators and collectors
• Kickstarter & Etsy artists
• Corporate teams, sports clubs, and schools
• Non-profits running awareness campaigns
• Pop culture conventions and event organizers
• Military and firefighter challenge coin buyers
• Global wholesalers and brand merchandisers

Whether you’re placing an order of 50 or 50,000 pieces, we give you the same level of care, precision, and service.

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📈 Why Choose Hipins?

• ✅ Over 17 years of manufacturing experience
• ✅ Factory-direct pricing — no middlemen
• ✅ Expert design team with free mockups in 24h
• ✅ Skilled production staff focused on details
• ✅ Flexible order volume, fast turnaround
• ✅ English-speaking service team with fast communication
• ✅ RUSH orders accepted — no extra charge
• ✅ Trusted by clients since 2007

We’re here to make your ideas real, and make the process smooth from start to finish.

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🔔 Ready to Create with Hipins?

If you’re looking for a reliable pin partner who takes your designs as seriously as you do — Hipins is the factory behind thousands of pins around the world.

📩 DM us, send a sketch, or email your idea.
Let’s build something amazing — together.

At Hipins, we pride ourselves not only on producing high-quality metal pins, but also on collaborating deeply with our clients to bring their visions to life — no matter how creative, technical, or challenging. One of our recent projects involved a returning client who came to us with a unique request:

A fantasy-style pin with Glow in the Dark features that would shine vividly during a nighttime cosplay convention.

What followed was a production journey marked by creativity, precision, and trust — and a final product that far exceeded the client’s expectations.

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🔍 Understanding the Client’s Vision

From the very first message, the client had a clear concept:

“We want the pins to have a magical, glowing effect — something that captures attention in dark environments. These pins are for a fan convention, so they need to be impressive even under low lighting.”

They sent over a rough sketch and a few reference designs. The idea was strong, but the client needed guidance on how to make the glow functional and visually impactful without compromising the original design details.

This is where our experience came in. Our team, with over 17 years in the pin industry, instantly recognized which design elements would benefit most from Glow in the Dark pigment, and how to balance the effect to ensure optimal glow, durability, and overall aesthetic.

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🎨 Free Artwork and Strategic Design Advice

Within 24 hours of receiving the request, we provided:

• A full-color artwork mockup with proposed glow areas
• Suggestions for color enhancements to amplify the glow
• Advice on recessed zones to protect the glow pigment
• Clear visual comparisons of day vs. night effects

We also included examples of previously completed glow pins, helping the client visualize what to expect.

The client said:

“Your artwork preview and explanation gave us so much confidence. We contacted other factories, but none were as detailed and helpful.”

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🛠 Production with Precision

After two complimentary revisions, we finalized the artwork. Our engineering and production team took extra care in the following steps:

• Material selection: Durable, eco-friendly zinc alloy base with hard enamel for surface strength.
• Glow pigment application: Embedded in recessed areas to preserve brightness over time.
• Color testing: Ensured contrast between the enamel base and glowing sections for maximum visual impact.
• Mockup simulation: Provided clients with digital mockups of how the pins would glow in both dim and full darkness.

The production was completed in under 10 working days, with rush delivery at no extra charge, ensuring the pins arrived on time for the event.

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📦 Delivery & Client Feedback

Upon receiving the shipment, the client contacted us with enthusiastic feedback:

“These pins are incredible. They charged under normal light in just minutes, and once the lights went off, they GLOWED. Everyone at the convention was asking where we made them. Our table was so easy to spot thanks to these pins.”

“We’ve done many merch runs before, but this is by far the best production experience we’ve had. From design to delivery — everything was smooth, professional, and fast.”

They placed a second order within a week for another design featuring similar night-use functionality.

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✨ Why Glow in the Dark Pins Are So Effective

Glow in the Dark technology works by incorporating non-toxic, rare-earth phosphorescent elements into the recessed or selective areas of a pin. These pigments absorb light during the day and release a glow in dark environments. The advantages are significant:

1. Eye-catching Appeal

The luminous effect attracts instant attention in dim conditions, creating a memorable impression.

2. Practical Application

Glow pins are perfect for:

• Cosplay events
• Fan conventions
• Awareness walks or marathons
• Nighttime promotions
• Sports medals
• Security or team identifiers

3. Safety & Sustainability

Modern glow pigments are safe for direct skin contact and environmentally friendly, offering long-term durability without toxic ingredients.

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🤝 Why Clients Trust Hipins

This case is a perfect reflection of why so many brands, artists, and wholesalers continue to choose Hipins for their custom pin production:

• Free design service with 24-hour turnaround
• 17+ years of manufacturing experience
• Factory-direct pricing with no hidden fees
• On-time delivery — even for urgent deadlines
• Transparent production process & regular updates
• Highly skilled team with specialty in intricate, fantasy-style pins
• Excellent English communication and fast response

Since 2007, we’ve proudly served hundreds of clients across North America and Europe, building strong, repeat partnerships through reliable craftsmanship and customer-first service.

“Strict Quality Control”

When it comes to custom pins, there are many manufacturers out there. But what truly sets Hipins apart? It’s not just the product. It’s the process. From your first message to the final delivery, we follow your order with unmatched care, communication, and precision.

We Treat Every Order Like It Matters — Because It Does

At Hipins, we believe every pin has meaning. That’s why every order is treated like a project, not a transaction. Once production begins, you’ll receive regular updates—not just generic messages, but actual photos and details of what’s happening with your pins, stage by stage.

We don’t wait for you to ask. We proactively update you on key steps such as:

• Picture During Making: As your pins are being crafted, we’ll send photos of mold engraving, color filling, or even polishing stages. You see your product taking shape in real time.

• Plating Notification: Once the pins are ready for electroplating (gold, silver, black nickel, etc.), we send an update. If you’re considering a special effect (like dual plating), we confirm with you before proceeding.
• Sent for Printing: For pins requiring screen print or UV printing (often for tiny details or textures), we let you know when this step starts. We often send a close-up image of one piece for your confirmation before mass printing.
• Production Is Complete: You’ll be the first to know when production wraps up. We send clear images of the finished product for your review.
• Quality Check in Progress: Before anything is packed, a full QC process begins. We check for defects, dust, plating flaws, and missing parts. If any issue arises, we fix it before shipment.
• “Can We Pack After QC?”: We always confirm with you before packing — giving you peace of mind that everything looks exactly the way you want. Only after your green light do we start final packing.

It’s Not About Sending Pins. It’s About Sending Confidence.

These steps might seem small, but they make a huge difference.

Most clients are surprised by how involved and visible our production process is. You don’t need to chase updates or ask what’s happening—we’ve already told you. Every photo, every message, every check-in is part of our philosophy: make clients feel informed, respected, and in control.

A Seamless, One-Stop Experience—Built on Detail

• Design Assistance: From the beginning, we optimize your artwork for the best result, advising on color separation, text legibility, and effect choices.
• Sample/Proof Approval: You receive digital mockups or pre-production photos to ensure full clarity.
• Progress Transparency: Every key milestone is documented with a real photo and a quick update. No vague promises. Just proof.
• Shipping Clarity: Once your approval is given, we pack with care and provide full logistics: packing list, box size, weight, and tracking number.

Skilled Craftsmanship, From the Inside Out

Hipins has over 17 years of manufacturing experience, and our factory team has deep expertise in both soft enamel and hard enamel pins, as well as 3D, antique, and fantasy-style designs.

Every craftsperson understands how to match creative complexity with production feasibility. We don’t guess. We calculate. We test plating thickness, review polishing angles, and verify that every line, letter, and color block turns out clean and durable.

Fast Replies. Honest Feedback. Zero Delays.

A huge part of our quality isn’t just physical—it’s communication. We reply fast, confirm small things you might have overlooked, and alert you when something seems off.

For example:

• If a tiny line in your artwork might not show well after color fill, we’ll point it out and suggest changes.
• If your design has fine gradients or shadows, we’ll advise whether to print or simulate using enamel.

That’s how we reduce risk and guarantee results. This kind of communication is why many of our clients have worked with us for over a decade.

Final QC = Final Peace of Mind

Before any pin leaves our workshop, we conduct a meticulous quality check. This includes:

• Surface Inspection: Checking for scratches, bubbles, or dust under the enamel
• Color Accuracy: Matching colors to Pantone codes
• Attachment Testing: Ensuring clutches, magnets, or keyrings are firm and secure
• Logo Placement & Text Sharpness: Checking for alignment, spelling, and print quality

Only after passing this final QC do we pack and ship — and even then, only after your approval.

Pins You’ll Be Proud to Show — and Reorder

Once our clients receive their pins, they often send us excited feedback, photos, and social media shoutouts. Many say the quality surpassed expectations — especially the attention to detail.

And they come back. Again and again.

Why? Because with Hipins, they don’t just get great pins. They get a great process.

✨ Behind every custom pin is a story. Behind every detail, a team.
Here’s a deep dive into one of our recent collaborations — a breathtaking Snow White-themed 3D pin, created in partnership with a visionary client who entrusted Hipins to bring their magical concept to life.

🛠️ What you’re seeing here is the raw metal blank and a pre-production sample, captured straight from our workshop. With meticulous craftsmanship and a streamlined workflow, this pin journeyed from a hand-drawn sketch to a tangible, sculpted art piece — embodying both fantasy and fine metalwork.

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🌟 What Makes This Project Exceptional?

• 3D Sculpted Detail: Unlike flat pins, this piece features elevated relief and multi-level depth, achieved through advanced CNC mold carving. The folds of Snow White’s dress, the strands of her hair, and the tiny bird she holds all come to life in stunning three-dimensional clarity.
• Premium Finishing: A deliberate contrast between glossy and matte surfaces creates an eye-catching visual play. This elevates not only the look but also the tactile experience — the pin feels as good as it looks.
• Double-Sided Design: While most pins only focus on the front, this collectible features intricate branding and limited-edition numbering on the back. It’s not just decoration; it’s storytelling on metal.
• Collector’s Format: Sized and detailed for the collector’s market, each piece is individually numbered as “Limited Edition 50” — offering a sense of exclusivity that turns a pin into a keepsake.

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👨‍🏭 Inside Hipins: Precision in Every Phase

This project is a testament to our end-to-end manufacturing capability. With full in-house production, Hipins managed the complete lifecycle — from artwork to mold, from blank pressing to surface treatment. Most impressively, this project passed our sample confirmation on the first try, eliminating the need for revisions.

Here’s what happens behind the scenes:

• 🧠 3D Model Engineering: Our technicians interpreted 2D artwork into a layered 3D structure that retains all fine lines and elements.
• ⚙️ CNC Mold Carving: Using micron-level CNC engraving, we achieved depth and texture impossible in standard die struck methods.
• 🎨 Finish Customization: The customer opted for a dual-texture surface and antique polish, creating a vintage-yet-modern look.
• 🔍 Detailed QA Inspections: Every batch is checked for clarity, edge definition, and mold consistency. Even back engravings are carefully inspected.

All steps are documented in our production records, which include photos, design files, and mold serial numbers — enabling fast reorders or style upgrades.

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💬 Feedback from the Client

“This is exactly what I imagined — no adjustments needed. You guys nailed it first try.”

Such feedback is what drives our passion. It means we saved the client time, avoided unnecessary revisions, and delivered a product they’re proud to associate with their brand.

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🏆 Why Choose Hipins for Custom Pins?

With over 10 years of experience and thousands of successful orders, Hipins is the trusted partner for custom enamel pins, 3D pins, and collectibles across the globe.

Here’s what sets us apart:

✔️ Complete In-House Manufacturing — From design to shipping, no outsourcing.
✔️ Pin Experts — We specialize in pins. That means sharper details, cleaner molds, and faster turnaround.
✔️ Flexible Order Quantities — Whether 50 pieces or 50,000, we maintain the same high standard.
✔️ Tailored Communication — Our sales and project team speak your language — literally. Bilingual support means smooth collaboration.
✔️ Material Versatility — Brass, zinc alloy, copper — matched to your aesthetic and budget.
✔️ Finish Mastery — Antique bronze, gold, matte black, satin silver — we guide you through all plating and texture options.
✔️ Trusted Worldwide — Our pins have appeared at Comic-Con, in Kickstarter campaigns, museum gift shops, and premium corporate collections.

From fantasy characters to corporate identities, our clients count on Hipins to translate creativity into tangible metal expressions.

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✉️ Ready to Start Your Own Custom Pin Journey?

Whether you’re an independent artist, a brand owner, or a creative director, Hipins is your go-to partner for premium-quality custom pins.
We don’t just manufacture — we co-create, advise, and deliver excellence.

In the world of custom pin manufacturing, precision is everything. At Hipins, we take great pride in helping our clients bring their creative visions to life with absolute accuracy, consistency, and reliability. One recent case stands out as a perfect demonstration of how our integrated production system, experienced team, and advanced techniques allow us to exceed client expectations — even on the very first sample.

This post walks you through a real client success story, where a custom-designed pin was successfully approved on the first try, with no revisions required. From concept to completion, this project showcases what makes Hipins a trusted and professional pin manufacturer for clients around the globe.

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1. The Challenge: A Complex Design with Strict Expectations

The client came to Hipins with a detailed pin design that featured multiple color segments, fine metal outlines, and a precise brand shape. Their top priorities were color accuracy, surface polish, and a premium finish that would reflect their brand quality. This wasn’t just a standard promotional item — it was a statement piece, designed to be part of their high-end product line.

Given the complexity, many manufacturers would require two or even three rounds of sampling to get it right. But thanks to our in-house design support and tightly managed production protocols, we were confident that we could deliver a flawless first sample.

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2. Pre-Production: Cross-Functional Alignment

Before even starting physical production, our project manager initiated a detailed pre-production checklist with the client. Our customer service team translated the client’s digital artwork into a full spec sheet including:

• Pantone color codes for each enamel area
• Pin dimensions and thickness
• Electroplating type (black nickel in this case)
• Attachment type (butterfly clutch)
• Finish preference (glossy with soft enamel)

The spec sheet was cross-checked by our technical drawing team, who prepared production-ready blueprints that were then reviewed by our engineers and metalwork team leads. This multilayer review significantly reduces room for error and speeds up downstream processes.

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3. Why It Passed First Time: Quality Systems + Skilled Workforce

The success of this order wasn’t accidental — it was the result of years of experience and a deeply embedded quality culture at Hipins. Here’s what made the first-time approval possible:

a. Skilled Artisans

Our color technicians have an average of 7–10 years of hands-on experience, especially with Pantone color matching and manual filling. They’re trained to identify nuances that machines can’t detect — such as enamel viscosity, leveling depth, and flow control — ensuring zero overflow and even fill.

b. Technology-Driven Mold Engraving

We use CNC precision engraving for molds, ensuring the sharpness of every metal line and the consistency of design contours. For this pin, fine text and small curves were flawlessly reproduced, something that impressed the client immediately.

c. Controlled Plating & Finishing

The pin’s electroplating was carried out in our automated black nickel line, calibrated for timing, temperature, and bath purity. Our QC team uses microscopic inspection tools to confirm uniform coating, no pitting, and mirror-like shine before approving any piece.

d. Layered Quality Checks

Each pin passed through at least three inspection phases — during mold, post-enamel, and pre-shipment — including physical durability tests, scratch resistance checks, and color consistency measurements. These steps ensured the pin wasn’t just beautiful, but also ready for real-world use.

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4. Client Feedback: “Perfect — No Changes Needed”

When we shipped the sample pin to the client, we included:

• HD photos of the finished piece
• A PDF quality report with 5 key metrics
• A live update on the tracking and delivery timeline

Within 48 hours, we received the most satisfying message:

“This is exactly what we wanted — the pin looks amazing. No need for revisions.”

The client not only approved the sample immediately but also placed the full production order without delay. This resulted in one of the most efficient project timelines in that product category, saving them both time and money.

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5. The Hipins Advantage: More Than Manufacturing

This case isn’t an exception — it’s a reflection of our standard approach. At Hipins, we believe that great pins come from great communication, detailed planning, and a hands-on commitment to quality. Here’s what sets us apart:

• In-House Factory: No outsourcing — every step from die-striking to plating happens under our roof.
• Professional Updates: We send over 100 status update emails per day to keep clients informed in real-time.
• Customer-Centric Workflow: Each client is assigned a dedicated project manager who ensures all steps are aligned.
• Scalable Production: Whether it’s 100 pins or 100,000, we maintain the same attention to detail.

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6. Final Thoughts: The Power of Getting It Right the First Time

In custom manufacturing, the first sample is more than just a trial — it’s a test of competence, clarity, and commitment. At Hipins, we take every order personally, ensuring that even your first sample reflects the final vision. Our teams work not in silos but in synchronization, ensuring timelines are met and expectations exceeded.

If you’re looking for a partner who combines artisanal skill, modern tools, and transparent communication, Hipins is ready to help you turn your idea into a pin worth wearing.

Let your first sample be your final choice — choose Hipins.

At Hipins, we don’t just manufacture pins; we breathe life into ideas through precision craftsmanship and collaborative excellence. Our process reflects a seamless blend of artistic vision, engineering discipline, and operational rigor—a combination that defines who we are and what we deliver. Behind every custom pin lies a symphony of coordinated steps and professional dedication, making Hipins not just a supplier but a strategic partner in quality.

Understanding the Pin-Making Process at Hipins

1. Color Filling: Where Designs Come Alive

The first visible transformation in the production process happens during color filling. Using Pantone Matching System (PMS), our trained technicians manually inject enamel into recessed areas of the metal base. This isn’t just about color; it’s about precision alignment, fluidity control, and achieving uniformity across hundreds or thousands of units. This step is executed by hand, ensuring that each pin reflects the client’s design intent with perfect accuracy.

Color technicians are trained to mix and match shades precisely, accounting for drying curves and enamel thickness. The paint must flow just enough to settle into every crevice but not overflow the metal walls. At Hipins, this delicate balance is achieved through rigorous testing and SOP-based instruction.

2. Wet Grinding: Achieving a Seamless Surface

Following color filling, hard enamel pins undergo a wet grinding process. This step flattens the enamel to the level of the metal lines, creating a flush, glass-like surface. Done improperly, this step can damage the enamel or compromise the metal relief. At Hipins, we use fine abrasives and multi-angle equipment to grind the surface gently, ensuring clarity in detail and uniform texture across every pin.

Grinding parameters, such as wheel pressure, speed, and water volume, are carefully monitored and logged. Our technicians understand that a single miscalculation can compromise a full batch. That’s why we invest in both machine accuracy and human craftsmanship.

3. Plating: Enhancing the Aesthetic and Durability

The visual character of the pin is significantly influenced during the plating phase. Our electroplating tanks are precisely calibrated for metals such as gold, nickel, black nickel, antique bronze, and silver. With tight control over timing, temperature, and bath composition, we achieve both visual consistency and long-term durability.

Hipins also offers custom finishes like satin, sandblasted, or dual-tone plating, all executed under controlled conditions. Every piece is individually checked for flaws like pinholes, peeling, or uneven coating.

4. Mass Production and Quality Synchronization

Large-scale orders at Hipins are never synonymous with mass neglect. Every production batch is tracked with a unique order ID, real-time dashboard updates, and cross-departmental communication. We implement layered quality control with inline inspection, post-processing checks, and final product reviews.

We’ve integrated barcode scanning, inspection checklists, and approval loops into every production round. This means that every pin undergoes visual, dimensional, and adhesion testing—ensuring not just volume, but verified quality.

Behind the Scenes: A Human-Centric Production Ecosystem

What truly sets Hipins apart is not just machinery or process—it is the human network that powers them. Every order activates collaboration between our design engineers, production technicians, colorists, quality assurance specialists, and customer service coordinators. Our internal platform registers over 100 micro-updates per order, fostering transparent communication across departments.

Each step is traceable, and each responsibility clearly defined. Weekly status reports with photo evidence are shared directly with clients, offering full visibility into their order.

Why Hipins? Beyond Manufacturing

Clients who work with Hipins stay with us because we offer more than a finished product—we offer an experience built on precision, integrity, and responsiveness. Our pins are worn at global expos, awarded in international competitions, displayed by influencers, and collected by passionate fans. Whether you’re ordering 100 or 100,000 pieces, Hipins aligns scalable production with artisanal quality.

With Hipins, every pin is a statement—a testament to care, collaboration, and craft.

What Makes Die Struck Pins So Special?

In a world filled with flashy colors and high-speed production, Die Struck Pins remain a symbol of tradition, prestige, and craftsmanship. Unlike enamel-filled pins, die struck pins rely on the metal itself to tell the story—through depth, texture, and polished contrast.

These pins are made by pressing a custom-designed mold into solid metal, resulting in raised and recessed areas that beautifully capture every detail. There’s no color added—just pure metal artistry.

At Hipins, we’ve been mastering the process of producing die struck pins for over 17 years. From military emblems to corporate gifts and collector’s items, we know how to transform metal into meaning.

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A Look Inside the Die Struck Pin Process at Hipins

Producing high-quality die struck pins involves a multi-step process that requires precision, experience, and full internal control—something Hipins is uniquely positioned to deliver thanks to our wholly-owned factory and in-house team.

1. Mold Creation

We begin with your idea, sketch, or logo. Our design team turns it into a 2D rendering and then a 3D steel mold. This mold is engraved with your custom design, which forms the foundation of your pin.

2. Die Striking

We use metals like brass, copper, or stainless steel and press the mold into them under high pressure. This creates a deep impression with clean edges and rich surface depth.

3. Trimming & Deburring

Each piece is carefully trimmed and smoothed, eliminating sharp edges and ensuring uniformity in every piece.

4. Polishing

We polish the raised areas to create contrast with the recessed parts. The result? A luxurious finish that catches the light—and attention.

5. Plating Options

Choose from antique bronze, shiny gold, silver, black nickel, or dual-tone plating. Each option gives your pins a different personality, from vintage to modern.

6. Inspection & Packaging

Every pin passes through five stages of inspection, including plating quality, edge finishing, and dimensional accuracy. Once approved, they are packed with care and shipped globally.

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Why Customers Choose Hipins for Die Struck Pins

Hipins isn’t just a pin supplier—we’re your custom pin partner. Here’s why more than 80% of our customers return for repeat orders:

✅ Full In-House Production: From die creation to delivery, everything is done under one roof.
✅ Precision Quality Control: Every pin undergoes strict inspection at each key stage.
✅ Timely Communication: We send real-time photo and video updates. Our service team replies to over 100 update emails per day.
✅ Design Assistance: Need help turning a rough concept into a professional pin? Our design team can refine or redraw your artwork for free.
✅ Fast Turnaround: Orders ship as fast as 10-12 working days, depending on complexity.

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Customization Options That Set You Apart

Every brand is different—and your pins should be, too. At Hipins, we offer:

• Custom Sizes and Shapes
  From standard round pins to complex silhouettes, we adjust cutting dies to suit your design.
• Laser Engraving
  Add serial numbers, initials, or hidden details.
• Back Options
  Butterfly clutch, magnetic back, safety pin, rubber clutch—fully customizable.
• Packaging Add-ons
  Individual opp bags, velvet boxes, card inserts, or custom backer cards.

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Where Die Struck Pins Shine

🏢 Corporate Use

Perfect for years-of-service awards, conference giveaways, or executive recognition.

🎖 Military and Government

Trusted by institutions for official insignias and commemorative badges.

🎓 Education and Associations

Used by alumni groups, honor societies, and universities to celebrate achievement.

🧑‍🎨 Collectible Culture

Their durability and detail make them perfect for artists, limited-edition runs, and hobbyists.

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Real Results from Hipins Clients

• A tech startup launched a die struck campaign pin in antique silver to build internal pride—it became their most shared employee swag item on LinkedIn.
• A museum commissioned a series of historic landmark pins—each delivered in a custom velvet box, with rave feedback from gift shop customers.
• A veterans’ association ordered custom pins for a reunion—our team worked closely to match historic insignias, ensuring accuracy and emotional impact.

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Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a custom pin that communicates elegance, authority, and permanence, die struck pins are your answer. At Hipins, we combine traditional metal artistry with modern customer service and production control to ensure your vision becomes a pin you’ll be proud of.

Take Your Brand to the Next Dimension with Custom 3D Pins from Hipin

In today’s fast-paced visual world, standing out requires more than just a logo—it requires presence, craftsmanship, and attention to detail. That’s where custom 3D pins come in. At Hipins, we specialize in bringing your ideas to life in sculpted metal, transforming your artwork into wearable mini-sculptures with depth, texture, and lasting impact.

With over 17 years of hands-on manufacturing experience, Hipins has helped thousands of global clients—from Fortune 500 companies to indie creators—turn simple ideas into premium, dimensional pins that capture attention and tell stories.

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What Are 3D Pins?

Unlike flat 2D pins, which are limited to printed or recessed enamel designs, 3D pins feature intricate relief created through die-casting or die-striking, resulting in pins with raised and recessed areas that feel tactile, luxurious, and visually captivating. These pins allow for contoured surfaces, rounded edges, and complex detailing not possible in traditional enamel work.

From human faces and animal textures to architectural icons and abstract branding, 3D pins deliver a sense of realism and sophistication that 2D pins simply can’t replicate.

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🏭 Why Choose Hipins for Your 3D Pins?

✅ 1. Factory Direct Production

At Hipins, everything is made under one roof. Our production facility in Kunshan, China, is fully equipped to handle all stages of 3D pin creation:

• 3D design modeling
• Mold engraving
• Die-casting or striking
• Polishing, plating, coloring
• Packaging and final QC

We don’t outsource. This means faster lead times, full quality control, and real-time progress updates—we send over 100 production update emails daily to clients around the world. You always know the status of your order.

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🎨 2. Precision Design Process

Every 3D pin project starts with a digital 3D CAD model. Our experienced designers evaluate each angle and curve to ensure smooth transitions, defined layers, and optimal visual impact. We provide digital previews and expert feedback to help enhance your original concept and avoid production surprises.

Whether you’re aiming for bold branding or delicate detail, we’ll optimize the depth and shape of every element.

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🛠️ 3. Premium Materials & Plating Options

We work with high-quality metals like zinc alloy, copper, and brass, ideal for holding fine detail and achieving long-lasting structure. Clients can choose from a wide array of plating and surface finishes, including:

• Polished gold or silver
• Antique bronze or antique nickel
• Matte black, satin gold, or dual-tone plating
• Textures like sandblasting, brushed metal, or frosted finish

Want color? Though 3D pins are often all-metal, we can add spot enamel, glow-in-the-dark pigment, or a clear epoxy dome for extra character.

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🔄 4. Consistent Updates & Transparent Communication

At Hipins, we treat communication as seriously as production. Every order is assigned a dedicated project coordinator who will:

• Share mold photos, plating results, and pre-shipping images
• Provide updates at each critical production stage
• Coordinate revisions quickly and efficiently

This level of transparency is one reason we maintain a high re-order rate and strong long-term relationships with our clients in the US, Canada, Japan, Germany, and more.

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✨ 5. Applications that Go Beyond the Expected

3D pins are not just products—they’re representations of value, creativity, and prestige. Hipins has created custom 3D pins for:

• Corporate awards and commemorative milestones
• Artist & music merch
• Anime conventions and esports team branding
• Souvenir collections for museums and tourism boards
• Luxury brand packaging and giveaways

These pins are often perceived as collectibles rather than promotional items. The added weight, depth, and tactile quality make them memorable and desirable—perfect for both marketing and monetization.

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🔧 What Sets Hipins Apart?

• Real factory, not a middleman: We own the production line. Faster response, tighter control, better results.
• 17+ years of focused experience: Our team understands the fine balance between technical production and visual storytelling.
• High flexibility: From low MOQs to complex designs—we adapt to your needs.
• Strict multi-point QC system: Each pin passes through multiple inspections—from mold accuracy to plating finish to final polish.
• Cultural understanding: We’ve served diverse clients worldwide, understanding cultural preferences in both design and service.

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📩 Want to See What We Can Make for You?

If you’re looking to create 3D pins that resonate with your audience and reflect the quality of your brand, Hipins is your ideal partner. Reach out to our team and let’s bring your vision to life—one sculpted pin at a time.

1. What Exactly Are Hard & Soft Enamel Pins?

Both styles start the same way: your artwork is stamped or die‑struck into a metal blank, plated, filled with colored enamel, then baked. The difference arrives after the baking: hard enamel is polished until the enamel is flush with the metal ridges; soft enamel is not—leaving color recessed and metal lines raised.

That single process split changes feel, finish, price, and life span. Let’s dig deeper.

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2. Hard Enamel – Luxury You Can Wear Every Day

2.1 Premium Look & Feel

Hard enamel finishes resemble jewelry: a glass‑smooth surface, mirror reflections, and perfectly sealed color wells. Shoppers and award recipients instinctively perceive it as worth more.

2.2 Built‑In Durability

The extra polishing step compacts the enamel; the pin resists scratches, pocket keys, and UV fading. Brands use hard enamel when longevity is the KPI—think corporate identity pins, military insignias, luxury product bundles, or high‑end collector drops.

2.3 Pantone‑Perfect Accuracy

Because the surface is absolutely flat, colors read true under any lighting. Hipins matches 100% Pantone codes in our color lab and logs every formula for seamless reorders—critical for strict brand guidelines.

2.4 Best‑Fit Scenarios

• Executive gifts that must scream prestige
• Retail SKUs priced above $10
• Uniform pieces worn daily for years
• Limited‑edition collectibles that appreciate in value

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3. Soft Enamel – Texture, Pop, and Budget Freedom

3.1 Vivid, Layered Color

Because color wells sit lower than metal lines, light hits edges differently, creating natural shadows that make art pop. Add-ons like glitter, glow‑in‑the‑dark, translucent tints, or dyed‑metal plating intensify that effect.

3.2 Cost‑Effectiveness at Scale

Skipping the labor‑intensive polishing means 15–30 % lower cost. For campaigns needing thousands of pieces—conventions, esports drops, subscription boxes—soft enamel stretches marketing dollars further.

3.3 Playable Texture = Fan Engagement

Collectors love “feeling” the ridges; kids love rubbing the design. That physical interaction increases dwell time with your logo—exactly what experiential marketers aim for.

3.4 Rapid Turnaround

Fewer finishing cycles also shave days off production. Hipins can ship soft enamel orders in as fast as 7 business days, ideal for last‑minute event swag.

3.5 Best‑Fit Scenarios

• Bulk giveaways where reach > price per unit
• Youth & fandom markets that value color excitement
• Fast campaigns needing quick design tweaks
• Designs demanding special effects or deep relief detail

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4. Head‑to‑Head Comparison Table

Key Factor	Hard Enamel	Soft Enamel
Surface	Flat, glassy, mirror‑like	Raised metal, recessed color
Durability	Very high (scratch & fade resistant)	High for short‑to‑medium term
Perceived Value	Luxury/jewelry	Fun/collectible
Cost	Higher	Lower
Special Effects	Limited (must stay flat)	Extensive (glitter, glow, etc.)
Production Speed	10–15 days avg.	7–12 days avg.
Ideal Quantity	100–10 k premium pieces	500–100 k promo pieces

(Save this table; it converts indecisive clients in under a minute.)

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5. Four Customer Pain Points and How Each Style Solves Them

1. “My pins keep scratching after a month.” Upgrade to hard enamel; the flush surface eliminates abrasion.
2. “I can’t afford $5 per unit for a freebie.” Choose soft enamel; bulk pricing can drop below $0.90 at 5 k pieces.
3. “Our brand green must match Pantone 348 C exactly.” Both styles pass, but Hipins’ hard enamel polishing guarantees an absolutely even reflection, so color reads cleaner.
4. “I need 3,000 pins in two weeks.” Soft enamel with Hipins’ rush line hits that timeline; hard enamel might miss it.

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6. Inside Hipins: Why Factories Matter

Most suppliers trade pins they don’t make. Hipins owns land, machinery, and talent—giving you:

• Live production photos emailed daily (we send 100+ updates across all clients each day).
• A dedicated project manager who tracks mold cutting, plating baths, color lab, and QC scans.
• Five inspection gates (mold, plating, coloring, final QC, pre‑ship) to intercept defects early.
• Direct factory pricing—not reseller margins.

That’s why our reorder rate exceeds 78 %.

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7. Decision Workflow – 30‑Second Checklist

1. Define purpose: Premium keepsake or mass outreach?
2. Set budget ceiling: $1–$3 per unit → soft; $3+ → consider hard.
3. Assess art style: Fine gradients → hard; bold lines/effects → soft.
4. Timeline pressure: Need it yesterday? Soft rush.
5. Longevity need: Years of wear? Hard.

If three or more answers land in one column, that’s your winner.

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8. Real‑World Case Snapshots

• Luxury Watchmaker – Hard Enamel
  Quantity: 1,200 Turnaround: 14 days
  Pins were boxed in velvet with gold‑foil certificates, sold for $25 each—sold out in 48 hours.
• Anime Convention – Soft Enamel
  Quantity: 50,000 Turnaround: 9 days
  Metallic glitter plus glow outline; attendee social media mentions jumped 37 % compared to previous year’s sticker swag.

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9. Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I add serial numbers? Yes—hard or soft can be laser‑engraved on the back.
Q: Are soft enamel pins nickel‑free? Absolutely; we offer nickel‑free plating on request.
Q: What is the minimum order? 100 pcs for either style; sample sets ship in 5 days.

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10. Next Steps – Get Your Perfect Pin Today

Receive a free digital proof in 24 hours, color‑matched to your Pantone codes, plus a transparent quote showing both hard and soft enamel pricing tiers.

Make your brand unforgettable—one perfectly crafted Pin at a time.

Precision, Passion, and Partnership

At Hipins, we don’t just manufacture metal pins—we bring your ideas to life with precision, care, and dedication. With over 17 years of experience in the promotional gift industry, we’ve built a reputation on one simple promise: every custom pin deserves our full attention, from concept to delivery.

Whether it’s a fantasy-style collectible, a commemorative challenge coin, or a brand’s promotional pin, our in-house teams work hand-in-hand across more than 100 well-defined production checkpoints to ensure the final product is exactly what the customer envisioned—if not better.

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Every Pin Begins With a Conversation

Every successful project starts with clear, timely, and professional communication. Our business team engages in thorough discussions with each client, ensuring all specifications, deadlines, and expectations are aligned before production begins.

Once payment is confirmed, we immediately place the order and assign a dedicated project manager to oversee every step. Our clients are never left in the dark—over 100 email updates are sent out daily from our customer service department, covering everything from mold confirmation to final shipment tracking.

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A Process Built on Precision and Departmental Collaboration

What makes Hipins unique isn’t just our technology—it’s how each department contributes seamlessly to the final product. Below is just a glimpse into the interdepartmental effort that goes into crafting a single pin.

🎨 Color Development – The Paint Lab

Color is emotion—and we treat it with care. Our color specialists begin by adjusting pigment ratios to match the client’s Pantone or custom color requests. From trial coloring to adjusting tones, weighing, and proportion mixing, everything is scientifically measured and thoroughly tested before ink touches metal. Once confirmed, colors are stored and tracked in our dedicated paint warehouse for consistency in future orders.

🧩 Die-Cutting and Mold Engraving – Engineering Excellence

Each design requires its own custom mold. Our mold carving and metal pressing teams use CNC and laser engraving machines to create fine details with 3D effects. Whether it’s a soft enamel or imitation cloisonné (hard enamel) pin, our goldsmith department ensures the mold is calibrated for precision, polished, and tested before production begins.

🔧 Metalworking – The Heart of Production

Our metal pressing department handles everything from raw material cutting, edge trimming, hole punching, polishing, and plating preparation. Using friction presses and hydraulic systems, we form the base pin with exact force and measurements, ensuring even the smallest components, like rubber clutches or spring keychains, are a perfect fit.

🌈 Coloring and Decoration – Adding Personality

This is where creativity shines. After base preparation, our coloring team applies enamel with extreme care. Whether it’s glitter, pearl gradient, or glow-in-the-dark, each coloring method is applied using precise tools and temperature-controlled ovens. Defects are immediately corrected during the touch-up phase before being cured in a vacuum chamber for lasting durability.

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Every Detail Checked, Every Step Verified

We have one of the strictest quality control systems in the industry, involving five distinct checkpoints:

• Coloring inspection
• Printing inspection
• Plating inspection
• Finished product QC
• Customer feedback loop

Each department is required to submit a report and photos of the work before proceeding to the next stage. This layered approach prevents errors, maintains accountability, and ensures we deliver only the best.

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Custom Service, Beyond the Product

Our relationship doesn’t end with production. The customer service team follows up with post-delivery support, tracking feedback and offering free after-sales consultations. If there are any issues, we act immediately—because your satisfaction is our success.

From sending real-time updates during production to offering design adjustments after the first sample, our clients often tell us how much they appreciate our transparency and dedication. One buyer from the U.S. recently said:

“Working with Hipins feels like having an extension of our own team in China. Every question I had was answered within hours, and the end product was exactly what we envisioned.”

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Technology Meets Tradition

Hipins blends traditional hand-finishing craftsmanship with modern technology. Techniques like laser edge engraving, vacuum drying, and vibration polishing are used side-by-side with artisan brushing, hand coloring, and polishing. Every pin is not just a product—it’s a piece of art.

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All Departments, One Purpose: Client Satisfaction

We firmly believe that everyone in the company plays a role in making the perfect pin. From the business team initiating the order, to the painting specialists, engravers, metalworkers, quality inspectors, and packaging experts, everyone is aligned with one mission: deliver pins that wow the client.

In fact, even the packaging department has its own SOPs—whether it’s bubble wrapping, applying 3M adhesives, attaching keyrings, or adding custom presentation cards, no detail is too small to be overlooked.

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Final Thoughts: Why Clients Keep Coming Back

At Hipins, we don’t just sell pins—we build relationships. Our clients return because they trust our process, our people, and our product. Every pin that leaves our factory is a symbol of our commitment to excellence, and we take that responsibility seriously.

So whether you’re ordering 100 pieces or 100,000, know this: we’ll treat your project with the same level of care, passion, and precision. Because that’s the Hipins way.

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1. Project Overview

When indie art collective Client 509 approached Hipins, they pictured a miniature “mother-board-meets-graffiti” artwork that would glow under club lights yet feel premium in the hand. The brief was ambitious: only 60+ pieces, but the pin had to combine hard enamel, screen-printed neon symbols, multiple specialty pigments, and even a tiny cut-out loop so it could double as a pendant. Hipins accepted the challenge, determined to demonstrate how small runs can still yield big-impact, fully customized products.

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2. Design Detail & Production Specifications

Attribute	Specification
Dimensions	28.5 mm tall, irregular gear silhouette
Base Metal	1.5 mm pressure-cast zinc alloy
Plating	High-polish gold
Enamel Type	Hard enamel, flush to metal after wet grinding
Color Formulae	• PMS 2727 “Blue Glow” (phosphorescent) • “Black Transparent Sandblast” for texture & depth • PMS 421, Cool Gray 9, PMS 133 • PMS 7525 Pearlescent (non-yellowing) • PMS 478 warm brown accents
Screen Print Overlay	Neon teal 333, magenta 807, and slate 425 graffiti marks
Special Features	Precision laser X-cut-out, raised gold circuitry, polished bevel edges
Back Stamp	Custom “Jinx Board 509 × Hipins” micro engraving
Attachment	Dual-post rubber clutches for stability
Packaging	Anti-scratch PVC sleeve + bubble bag, recyclable inkjet card backing

Why these choices?

• Hard enamel delivers jewelry-like durability and a perfectly level surface for the over-printed graffiti symbols.
• Blue-Glow 2727 charges quickly under daylight and radiates an electric cyan at night—ideal for Client 509’s late-night fan base.
• Transparent sandblast black adds a diffused matte window that contrasts dramatically with the plated gold.
• The pearlescent PMS 7525 inserts subtle shimmer under room light without overpowering the central glow effect.
• A 1.5 mm alloy body ensures weight and rigidity, while the X-cut-out keeps the design airy and functions as an optional chain loop.

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3. Production Workflow & Quality Control

1. Digital Proof & Pantone Lock-in
   Hipins’ in-house designer translated the client’s rough sketch into vector art, overlaying each enamel well and print layer. Three rounds of virtual mock-ups explored color swaps and the size of the negative-space loop until all stakeholders approved the final 28.5 mm layout.
2. CNC Mold Cutting
   A high-precision steel die captured every micro-line of the gear teeth and graffiti splatters. The mold incorporated a center sand-blast texture to keep recessed zones crisp during plating.
3. First-Article Inspection (FAI)
   Before mass filling, one blank was struck, plated in gold, ground flat, and returned to the art team. Using a digital loop camera, both teams confirmed bevel integrity and zero pitting—key for hard enamel’s flush finish.
4. Color Filling & Wet Grinding
   Each cavity received its specific pigment in sequence, starting with opaque tones, then glow enamel, and finally pearlescent. After high-temperature curing, the pin surface was stone-ground wet to achieve the seamless glass-like plane unique to hard enamel.
5. Silk-Screen Overlay
   Neon graffiti symbols were screen-printed in three passes (teal, magenta, slate) with 0.08 mm line width accuracy. UV curing locked the colors without bleed.
6. Transparent Sand-Blast & Clearcoat
   The black translucent areas were sand-etched then sealed with a satin clearcoat, creating a depth effect under the printed layer.
7. Final QC & Packing
   Each piece underwent a 100 % visual check: glow consistency test (30 s under 500 lux), plating reflectivity meter, and clutch pull-testing. Pins were then wiped with anti-tarnish cloths and slipped into recyclable PVC sleeves with bubble padding.

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4. Communication & Management Strategy

• Dedicated Project Channel – We opened a shared Slack workspace where Hipins’ production manager, color technician, and Client 509’s art director could exchange images in real-time.
• 48-Hour Milestone Snapshots – Factory floor photos documented every key stage (mold strike, plating rack, color fill, grinding). This kept decisions fast and eliminated guess-work.
• Live Pantone Verification – Hipins mailed a small swatch panel with cured enamels so the client could sign off on exact glow intensity and pearlescent sheen before mass production.
• Agile Adjustments – When the client requested a deeper sand-blast texture mid-run, our technicians paused the line, re-dialed blast pressure from 55 psi to 70 psi, and showed side-by-side results within the same shift, avoiding delays.

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5. Client Feedback & Outcome

“The pins are insane—exactly the cyber-punk energy we wanted, right down to the glow and etched texture. Fans at our launch event thought we’d hit a volume order, not a run of sixty. Hipins treated our boutique project with AAA studio attention.”
— Art Director, Client 509

The client reported a 100 % sell-through within the first 48 hours, and social media engagement for the launch post reached 4× their average. Several followers have since requested variant colorways, opening doors for future micro-runs.

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6. Why This Pin Stands Out

• Multi-Effect Palette – Combining glow-in-the-dark, pearlescent, and transparent enamel in one 28 mm frame is rare; Hipins executed it without compromising line sharpness.
• Jewelry-Grade Finish – Hard enamel’s wet-ground surface sits flush with the polished gold, giving the piece the feel of a premium accessory, not a trinket.
• Functional Design – The X-cut-out loop transforms the pin into a pendant, broadening use cases without extra hardware.
• Eco-Smart Packaging – By opting for PVC sleeves and bubble bags produced from 30 % recycled material, the project hit the client’s sustainability checklist.

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7. Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What is the minimum order quantity for a hard-enamel pin with multiple specialty pigments?
Hipins can start at 50 pcs per design, even with add-ons like glow or pearlescent—ideal for creators testing the market.

Q2. Can I combine printing and enamel on one pin?
Absolutely. We screen-print over hard enamel after wet grinding, achieving precise neon details without sacrificing durability.

Q3. How long do blue-glow areas stay luminous?
After a full daylight charge, the 2727 pigment glows vividly for about 60 minutes before tapering to a subtle halo.

Q4. Is the transparent sand-blast effect scratch resistant?
Yes. The sand-blast is sealed under a satin clearcoat tested to 100 rub cycles on a Crockmeter with no visible abrasion.

8. Key Takeaways

The “Jinx Board” project proves that micro-batch orders do not have to compromise on creativity or craftsmanship. Through meticulous color science, agile communication, and integrated finishing techniques, Hipins delivered a collectible pin that punches far above its production size. For brands or artists craving true personalization—whether that’s glow effects, textural contrasts, or unconventional silhouettes—Hipins offers a turnkey pathway from concept to fan-worthy reality.

A Case Study of a Custom-Made Butterfly Pin

Hipins was approached by a client looking to design a premium-quality butterfly-shaped pin. The goal was to produce an elegant, colorful pin with high visual detail and sturdy structure. The project involved multiple stages: from design conception and mold creation to post-production finishing and client feedback. The entire process exemplifies our commitment to quality craftsmanship and responsive client communication.

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1. Mold Process

The first step involved creating precision metal molds for the butterfly design. The client provided initial reference images, and our design team translated this into a vector-based mold design suitable for CNC engraving.

Each mold is machined from a solid block of hardened steel using CNC and EDM (Electrical Discharge Machining) to capture fine line details—essential for the intricate patterns on the butterfly wings.

Image Reference: The second image shows the engraved mold plates, with the butterfly mold located in the top left corner.

Key Steps:

• Digital design conversion
• CNC + EDM mold creation
• Polishing and testing for clean impressions

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2. Blanks Done Process

Once the molds were ready, we began pressing zinc alloy (using the die-casting method) into the molds to form “blanks”—unpainted, uncolored pin bases. These pieces were then trimmed, deburred,and polished to ensure a clean shape.

Image Reference: The last image shows both the front and back of the finished blanks, displaying the detailed embossed surface and pin attachments.

Key Steps:

• Die-casting the butterfly shape
• Trimming and deburring
• Attaching pin hardware

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3. Filling Colour Process

This butterfly pin design featured vibrant color fills. We used soft enamel coloring, hand-filled into the recessed areas of the pin. A dual-tone color scheme was applied: the first version had a light green and silver theme, while another had a blue, gold, and silver palette.

Each color is filled individually and then baked to harden the enamel. This part of the process demands patience and accuracy to ensure no color bleeding.

Image Reference:

• The first image shows pins with bright green wings post-color fill.
• The third and fourth images show progress of the blue-and-silver variant during and after the coloring stage.

Key Steps:

• Hand-filled soft enamel
• Multiple rounds for multi-color design
• Baking to set the colors

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4. Wet Grinding Process

After color filling, the next step was wet grinding—a polishing method that smooths out the enamel so it sits flush with the metal edges, giving the pin a premium, smooth finish. This step also enhances the metallic outline of the pin.

The pins were submerged in water and polished on a rotating grinding wheel. This prevents overheating and preserves the enamel integrity.

Key Steps:

• Submerging the piece in water
• Polishing with wet-grinding tools
• Checking for surface flatness and finish

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5. Communication Process

Throughout the project, communication between the client and our team was clear, transparent, and responsive. Key highlights of the communication process included:

• Initial Briefing: Understanding client requirements regarding shape, color preferences, pin back style, and intended use.
• Design Preview: Sharing 2D renderings and mockups before mold cutting.
• Production Updates: Frequent image updates were shared during blanking, coloring, and polishing stages.
• Approval Rounds: Each step was confirmed with the client before proceeding.

This back-and-forth ensured that the final product aligned precisely with the client’s expectations.

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6. Post-Production and Client Feedback

Once all units were completed, the badges went through a final quality control check to inspect for any defects in enamel, metal edge quality, or pin alignment. The completed pins were individually packaged for shipping.

Client Feedback:
The client expressed high satisfaction with the final result, particularly appreciating:

• The clean, professional finishing
• Vivid color quality
• Quick turnaround time
• Responsiveness of the Hipins team

The success of this project has led to discussions about future designs and repeat orders.

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FAQs About the Custom Badge Process

Q1: What materials are used for these pins?
We primarily use zinc alloy for its durability and ease of molding. For coloring, we use soft enamel paint, which allows for vibrant color applications.

Q2: Can I choose custom colors?
Yes, all enamel colors can be customized based on Pantone codes or reference images.

Q3: How long does the whole production process take?
From design approval to finished product, it typically takes 10–15 business days, depending on order size and design complexity.

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Conclusion

This butterfly pin project is a testament to Hipins’ dedication to precision craftsmanship and collaborative customer service. From mold design to color fill and wet grinding, every detail was handled with care. The end result was a vibrant, detailed pin that exceeded the client’s expectations and reinforced our reputation for delivering top-quality custom work.

I. Introduction

In the custom – design industry, successful projects hinge on precise design and production specifications, seamless communication, and meticulous post – production evaluation. This case study delves into Hipins‘ work on a custom pin design for Jinx Board Fillers, highlighting these key aspects.

II. Design and Production Specifications

A. Design Elements

The pins present a captivating array of designs. The first collection features characters with striking and vibrant colors like purple, yellow, and gold. These colors are not only visually appealing but also help the pins stand out. The second collection showcases unique hand – gesture designs, each with distinct patterns and color – coding. These designs are rich in detail, making them both interesting and unique.

B. Material and Technique

1. Material

The pins are crafted from zinc – alloy, a material known for its durability and ability to hold fine details. The first set of pins utilizes 1.5MM zinc – alloy, while the second set employs 1.8MM zinc – alloy. This choice of thickness ensures that the pins are sturdy yet manageable.

2. Finishing Techniques

• Plating: Gold plating is applied to the pins, imparting a luxurious and high – end appearance. This gold finish enhances the visual appeal and gives the pins a premium look.
• Enamel and Printing: The production employs hard enamel imitation enamel + print printing techniques. This combination results in vivid and long – lasting colors. For instance, the gold – metal finish with transparent sandblast (264, 266) adds a sophisticated touch. Other color – coded finishes like white (425), gold metal (5807), Pearlescent (807, 2727), cool gray 7, and black with transparent sandblast contribute to the diversity and uniqueness of each pin.

3. Size

The pins are available in two sizes: 1″ and 1.5″. These sizes are carefully chosen to balance visibility and wearability. The 1″ size is compact and suitable for subtle display, while the 1.5″ size makes a bolder statement.

4. Attachment and Packing

Rubber Clutches (rubber pads) are used for attachment, ensuring that the pins stay securely in place. The packing is done in PVC + bubble bags, providing protection during transportation and storage.

III. Communication Process

A. Order Placement

Jinx Board Fillers placed two orders (250109F04 and 250109F05) with Hipins, each with a quantity of 60 +. This initial order placement set the stage for the project.

B. Special Requirements

1. Production Progress Updates

The client requested regular updates on the production progress. Hipins established a robust communication protocol to meet this demand. From the moment the design was approved, Hipins provided timely updates at each stage of production. This included sharing details of the manufacturing process, such as when the molds were being prepared, when the plating was taking place, and during the finishing touches.

2. No Sampling Required

The client expressed unwavering confidence in Hipins’ capabilities, waiving the need for product sampling. This decision streamlined the production process, saving both time and resources. It also demonstrated the client’s trust in Hipins’ quality – control mechanisms.

C. Production Steps Communication

Hipins maintained an open line of communication regarding the production steps. Detailed information was shared with the client, covering crucial aspects like first – article inspection, electroplating, and the final review. The use of technical terms such as “hard enamel imitation enamel” and “print printing” ensured that the client had a comprehensive understanding of the techniques being used.

IV. Post – Production and Client Feedback

A. Quality Assurance

Hipins implemented strict quality – control measures throughout and after production. The first – article inspection was carried out with great precision to ensure that the initial product met the design specifications. Electroplating was closely monitored to guarantee an even and high – quality finish.

B. Client Feedback

Since the client did not require samples, the post – production feedback was of utmost importance. The pins were delivered to the client as scheduled. The client expressed high satisfaction with the final product. The pins not only met the design expectations but also exceeded quality requirements. The smooth communication and adherence to the client’s special requirements were instrumental in achieving this success.

V. Conclusion

The custom pin design project for Jinx Board Fillers at Hipins stands as a testament to successful collaboration. The well – defined design and production specifications, efficient communication process, and thorough post – production evaluation ensured that the client received top – notch custom – made pins. The client’s trust in Hipins’ capabilities, combined with hipins‘ commitment to fulfilling client requirements, makes this project an exemplary model for future custom – design undertakings.

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• This case study documents the design and manufacturing process of a custom lapel pin titled “Pow! Pom!” for Client 509, ordered through Hipins. The vibrant and comic-inspired design exemplifies both creative branding and high-quality craftsmanship. With a quantity exceeding 50 units, the client requested a direct-to-production approach without sampling, highlighting their confidence in the process and the end result.

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Design and Production Specifications

• Order Number: 250109F02-Jinx_board fillers
• Item: Lapel pin
• Type: New custom order
• Process: Hard enamel with screen printing
• Plating: Gold
• Polish: Thick metal
• Attachment: Rubber Clutches
• Backside: Backstam
• Packing: PVC + Bubble Bag
• Metal Thickness: 1.5mm Zinc Alloy
• Dimensions: 1.25 inches
• Base metal: Gold
• Fill colors:
  • White
  • 807 Glitter Pink
  • 2727 Glitter Blue
• Special Features:
• No sample needed
• Gold outline and glitter infills
• Cutouts marked with red “X”

This design integrates pop art elements and bold typography to create a visually dynamic pin. The usage of glitter enamel enhances visual interest and appeal, especially for collectors and fans of street-style aesthetics.

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Communication Process

The order was placed through Hipins with a clear and detailed brief. The client provided a specific design concept, including color choices (Pantone 807 and 2727 with glitter effects), dimensions, and text formatting. Communication was smooth and efficient due to the following:

• Clear Artwork Submission: The client submitted precise artwork, including both colored mockups and metal cut templates.
• No Sample Required: The note “No Sample Needed” indicated that the client trusted Hipins’ production quality. Instead, photo documentation of the production process was to be shared.
• Inspection Tags: Labels such as “initial inspection” and “plating” ensured that internal quality control checkpoints were followed.
• Language Clarity: Both English and Chinese were used in the production sheet, facilitating bilingual coordination across teams.

This streamlined communication reduced production lead time and eliminated the sampling stage, allowing the factory to move into bulk manufacturing immediately after confirmation.

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Post-Production and Client Feedback

Once production was completed, photos were sent to the client for record and approval. Because the process was pre-agreed upon and samples were waived, the visual updates helped ensure transparency and manage expectations.

Client Feedback Highlights:

• Design Accuracy: The client appreciated that the glitter enamel matched their selected Pantone references.
• Build Quality: The pins were reported to be well-polished, with no visible bubbles or uneven fill in the enamel.
• Packaging: The individual PVC and bubble bags provided adequate protection during shipment, ensuring no damage occurred.
• Timeliness: The order was completed and shipped on time, further reinforcing the client’s confidence in Hipins’ reliability.

FAQs

Q1: What does “hard enamel” mean?
Hard enamel refers to a technique where colored enamel is filled into recessed areas and polished flat, resulting in a smooth, durable surface that’s resistant to scratching. It gives a high-end, glossy finish.

Q2: What is the advantage of using glitter enamel?
Glitter enamel adds a sparkling effect, enhancing the pin’s visual appeal. It is particularly popular for novelty designs, events, or collectors’ items.

Q3: Why was no sample needed?
Some clients, especially repeat customers or those confident in the supplier’s capability, opt to skip the sample phase to speed up production. In such cases, photographic updates during production serve as a substitute.

Q4: What is a backstamp?
A backstamp is custom text or logo engraved on the reverse side of the pin, often used for branding, authentication, or serial numbering.

Q5: Can I change the attachment type?
Yes, clients can choose from different attachments such as butterfly clasps, magnetic backs, or rubber clutches depending on their needs.

Q6: How are colors matched?
Colors are selected based on Pantone codes, and glitter or plain versions can be used. It’s important to specify if glitter enamel is desired, as shown here with “807 glitter” and “2727 glitter”.

Q7: Is gold plating real gold?
No, gold plating in this context typically refers to a gold-colored metal finish (usually imitation gold) applied over a base metal. It’s mostly for aesthetic purposes.

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Conclusion

This “Pow! Pom!” pin project exemplifies the power of clear design, efficient communication, and quality manufacturing. From vibrant pop art aesthetics to robust metal plating and glitter detailing, the final product met all client expectations. The ability to skip sampling without compromising results shows that with the right systems in place, speed and quality can coexist. This case continues to stand as a benchmark for smooth custom production at Hipins.

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