Overview
This custom enamel pin project was created for a client seeking a high-impact collectible that merges visual storytelling with interactive design. Inspired by a magical school theme, the finished product features a young female wizard character holding a delicate glass jar that houses a movable green frog charm. The pin combines premium hard enamel, 3D details, UV printing, and a functional hinge shaker component.
Pin Design Details
The client’s vision was clear: produce a large, visually striking pin with an interactive feature that would appeal to fantasy fans and pin collectors. Key details included:
- A full-body character design with detailed hair and uniform
- A hinged jar element with a movable frog inside
- Realistic UV printing and screen printing details
- High-gloss silver metal plating
- Durability and collector-grade finish
The goal was to offer something playful, elegant, and premium—something that would stand out at pop culture conventions and online marketplaces.
Crafting Process
This pin was produced using the hard enamel process, as described in industry standards. The process began with die-struck outlines on a zinc alloy base, allowing for clean metal lines to separate color areas. After multiple rounds of enamel filling and baking, the surface was ground smooth and polished, creating a luxurious finish.
The most complex element was the shaker jar. This part was made as a transparent dome with a hinged lid, secured with a rotating silver metal cap. Inside the jar, a green bug charm was inserted, measuring approximately 14.4mm. The frog was UV-printed with green shades and red eyes to enhance realism and contrast.
Printing was used for some details on the pin. This allowed for sharper facial expressions, lip color, and finger detail without overcomplicating the mold. The UV method ensured long-term durability without fading.
Client Interaction Highlights
Our client appreciated the first-round proof, noting that:
“The jar concept exceeded expectations—it looks like a real magical container! Our fans are going to love this.”
They also requested minor adjustments to ensure the jar was not too loose during movement, which we addressed by tightening the hinge torque and testing multiple samples for stability.
Some Steps
- Mold Creation: The mold was created by workers.
- Stamping & Cutting: Character body and jar parts die-cut separately for hinge alignment
- Enameling: Each section color-filled using PMS-matched hard enamel pigments
- UV Printing: Applied for facial details, frog surface, and additional shading
- Assembly: Frog inserted, dome sealed, and hinge component attached
- Polishing & Plating: Mirror-polish and silver metal plating added
- Quality Control: Manual hinge testing and visual inspection before packing
Post-Production Details
Each pin measured approximately 71.6mm tall with a thickness of 1.1mm at its base and additional depth from the 3D shaker dome. Two rubber clutches were used on the back to distribute weight evenly and ensure a stable fit on garments or display boards.
Packaging was done in PVC bubble bags to protect the shaker feature during shipping. Each unit was back-stamped with brand details for authentication.
Client Feedback
The final product received outstanding feedback:
“Our audience was amazed by the moving frog—it added life to the design. We’ve already sold out our first batch!”
The combination of hard enamel durability, character art, and interactive mechanics contributed to the success of this release.
Conclusion
This hinge shaker enamel pin is a perfect example of how storytelling, artistry, and mechanical elements can come together in a single collectible. Whether used for fan merch or boutique retail, it’s proof that functional design can elevate a pin from simple accessory to treasured keepsake.
If you’re considering a custom project with similar interactive components, we’d be delighted to help bring your vision to life.