Black Pink Enamel Pin Collection – Custom Design by HIPINS

Client Overview

HIPINS had the opportunity to work with Client 563, who ordered a custom enamel pin series inspired by the internationally renowned K-pop group BLACKPINK. The project included three uniquely designed character pins featuring Rosé, Jisoo, and Lisa. These were high-quality hard enamel lapel pins enhanced with UV printing and detailed decorative finishes.

The client’s order required 30+ units of each design, and they opted for the “No Sample Needed” approach, relying on digital proofs for approval and proceeding directly to mass production. With a solid history of cooperation and mutual trust, the design-to-production process was seamless and efficient.

Design and Production Specifications

Each enamel pin in the Black Pink collection was crafted using 1.8mm imitation gold-plated metal with detailed mold etching and sandblasting. The designs featured a combination of hard enamel fill, custom Pantone colors, glitter accents, translucent finishes, and UV printed highlights for facial details and accessories.

ROSE (Order #250221W01)

• Dimensions: 1.5 inches tall
• Materials: Gold-plated thick metal, hard enamel, UV printing
• Color Palette: Standard black and white, 475 (30%), 7624 + glitter (C22), 7630 translucent, 7499, 183, 405 (70%), and pearl no swirl black
• Features: Rosé is shown holding a microphone with soft facial expressions, a detailed black leather jacket with stud embellishments, and necklace accessories highlighted using UV red print.
• Back Details: Includes a custom BLACKPINK backstamp and two rubber clutches for secure wear.

JISOO (Order #250221W03)

• Dimensions: 39mm
• Materials: Gold-plated metal, hard enamel, UV print
• Color Palette: Includes black, white, 475 (20%), 7621, 438, 707, and glitter for floral details
• Features: Jisoo is shown holding a red rose with intricate glitter detailing on the flower and flowing hair. Her elegant look is emphasized with strong, vivid contrast between dark tones and highlighted features.
• Back Details: Same mold used as Rosé for cost efficiency. Custom backstamp included.

LISA (Order #250221W04)

• Dimensions: 40.8mm
• Materials: Gold-plated metal, hard enamel, UV print
• Color Palette: Skin tones like 7520 and 7514, blues like 7685 and 5415, and multiple glitter-embedded accents
• Features: Lisa’s pose captures a confident, modern fashion aesthetic. Unique design elements include a glittery earring, trendy outfit, and a bold pose with hand on her face.
• Back Details: Shared mold with Rosé. BLACKPINK backstamp and dual rubber clutches.

Communication Process

HIPINS maintained active and professional communication with the client throughout the design and production process. After receiving the initial digital artwork mockups for the three members, the client provided positive feedback almost immediately:

• Feedback 1: “The artwork looks great!”
• Feedback 2: “Thank you for the update. Approving both of these for enamel mass production.”

Because the client had worked with HIPINS previously and trusted the digital renderings provided, they confidently chose the No Sample Needed route. This decision streamlined the timeline and enabled faster mass production without compromising quality.

All artwork was reviewed internally for technical feasibility. Adjustments were made in line with manufacturing standards, including:

• Setting precise UV print layers for delicate facial details.
• Confirming mold alignment for dual-use (e.g., Jisoo and Rosé sharing the same base mold).
• Ensuring color separation for glitter and translucent areas.

Production Execution

Once approved, the designs were sent to the mold production team for final etching. The molds were then prepared for sandblasting, followed by gold electroplating and enamel filling. HIPINS used a multi-layer hard enamel technique, ensuring each color was individually baked and polished for a smooth, glass-like finish.

For areas with complex gradients or tiny features, HIPINS used precision UV printing, especially on facial expressions and text labels. The results were crisp and vibrant.

The pins were then assembled with two rubber clutches on the back for secure attachment. Each was packaged in a PVC bag with bubble protection to prevent damage during shipping.

Post-Production and Client Feedback

Once the pins were delivered, the client responded with enthusiastic feedback. They were especially pleased with the:

• Sharp print clarity
• Consistent enamel polish
• Faithful color matching to the approved artwork

They noted that the glitter and translucent finishes exceeded expectations, particularly on Lisa’s earrings and Jisoo’s rose. The pins were distributed for collector purposes and were also used in limited promotional drops.

There were no returns, complaints, or revisions post-delivery. The success of this production reaffirmed the client’s confidence in HIPINS’ quality and process reliability.

FAQ

Q1: Can I get a physical sample before mass production?
Yes, but in this case, the client chose to skip the sample phase. If you’re unsure, we always recommend requesting a pre-production sample for approval.

Q2: What is the benefit of using hard enamel over soft enamel?
Hard enamel is smoother, more durable, and has a high-end jewelry-like finish. It’s ideal for collectible pins or high-value items like the Black Pink series.

Q3: Is it possible to reuse molds across multiple designs?
Yes, if designs share structural similarity, we can reuse molds to save costs—as done for Rosé and Jisoo in this project.