Project Overview
In a design world dominated by color and detail, the “Ratio Routine 1″ custom pin project took a strikingly different path—one grounded in pure form, balance, and thoughtful minimalism. This custom pin project wasn’t just about creating a pin; it was about visualizing a concept—structure through simplicity. The client, with a clear vision rooted in design theory, came to us with the intention of turning a flat, graphic idea into a tangible, beautiful object that conveyed intention without explanation.
Our goal? To make this deceptively simple design come to life with impeccable craftsmanship and a finish that felt timeless.
Design Adaptation & Technical Challenges
Translating this into a custom pin presented several production-specific challenges. First, we had to ensure the ultra-clean lines and geometric spacing remained true in die struck metal. Slight shifts—even fractions of a millimeter—could disrupt the balance. The physical properties of enamel and metal, such as enamel shrinkage and plating bleed, required proactive design compensation.
We chose hard enamel for this custom pin project, which allowed for a flat, polished surface while retaining slight tactile definition at the edges of the shapes. This was crucial to maintain the clean divide between black and white.
Production Specifications
Once the design was finalized, we moved forward with full production using the following specifications:
Each custom pin was subject to manual inspection to ensure line sharpness, color fill consistency, and surface polish. No pin left the line without passing visual QC.
Collaboration and Iteration
During sample stage, we arranged the sample for this client’s approval. This client made some suggestions. We made some modifications to the sample according to the customer’s requirements. A revised version was created and sent to the client for review.
This collaborative attention to detail made a clear impact on the final result. Their feedback was incredibly positive:
“Thank you for refining the spacing—we see the difference immediately. This version perfectly preserves the visual rhythm we aimed for.”
Presentation and Post-Production Touches
The “Ratio Routine 1” custom pin was presented not just as a product, but as a collector’s piece. We worked with the client on creating a backer card that mirrored the minimalist aesthetic. The result was a near-museum-quality accessory—understated, striking, and versatile enough for various wardrobes or design-conscious displays.
Each pin was individually checked for enamel smoothness, plating consistency, and sharpness of the black-and-white contrast. Final packing used anti-scratch foam inserts to protect the polished surface during shipping, ensuring the product arrived in pristine condition.
The result? A finished piece that looks just as thoughtful in-hand as it does in a digital storefront.
Client Feedback
After receiving this shipment, the client shared the following:
“This is exactly what we were hoping for. The precision, the weight, the finish—it all speaks to the philosophy behind the design. You’ve made a piece that feels more like a design object than a pin.”
Such feedback validates our dedication to not just making products—but making meaning.
Why This Project Stands Out
The “Ratio Routine 1” custom pin is a textbook example of how less can truly be more—when backed by thoughtful execution. It also highlights the value of collaboration between designer and manufacturer, especially when it comes to projects rooted in abstract or conceptual design.
Rather than treating the pin as a promotional object, we treated it like a piece of design merchandise—worthy of the same attention as a boutique art print or a limited-edition zine. The result? A clean, confident enamel pin that embodies restraint and power in equal measure.