Overview
This project spotlights a playful, heartwarming enamel pin crafted for a pop culture-inspired brand. Featuring two chibi-style characters enjoying a cozy moment by the fire, the design balances cuteness with premium craftsmanship. The pin not only showcases refined hard enamel artistry but also reflects a creative, character-driven narrative—a perfect collectible for fans of stylized character merchandise.
Pin Design Details
These details included:
Crafting Process
From the start, this was a technically layered project. Here’s how the production unfolded:
- Design Transfer & Approval Using the client’s full-color illustration, we developed a production-ready vector artwork. Key adjustments were made to accommodate metal outlines and ensure printing areas were balanced with enamel fill zones.
- Mold Development & Cutlines A custom mold was created to capture the pin’s outer shape and interior details. The flame accents, character outlines, and fine features (like the marshmallow and chocolate bar) were carefully separated with raised metal lines.
- Hard Enamel Fill Each color—ranging from bright yellows (Pantone 7404) to deeper reds and blues—was hand-filled using hard enamel, then baked at high temperatures to cure the enamel solid. This ensured a glassy, scratch-resistant surface with a smooth feel.
- Silkscreen Printing Fine facial details and the s’more texture required precision screen printing. These features were printed directly atop the polished enamel base, allowing for crisp expressions without losing visual clarity.
- Polishing & Plating Once cured, each pin was carefully polished to bring out the shine in the raised gold metal lines. A final gold plating step unified the piece with a bright, premium finish.
- Attachment & Packaging Pins were fitted with durable rubber clutches and individually packed in protective PVC bags—a collector-friendly touch that also simplifies fulfillment.
Client Interaction Highlights
Communication with the client remained open throughout the process. During proofing, the client approved a revised version of the marshmallow flame area to make it more vibrant. We also coordinated the dual-brand backstamp layout to ensure both trademarks were legible without crowding the reverse side.
“The client noted: ‘You really captured the playfulness we imagined—especially the s’mores expression! It’s adorable and high-quality.’”
Their approval of the pre-production sample was swift, with no changes needed to the enamel tone or mold finish—a testament to the clear briefing and effective collaboration.
Post-Production Results
The final pin met all visual and functional expectations. Colors were vibrant, print lines sharp, and the gold finish reflective without being overpowering. Thanks to consistent communication and a carefully managed production process, the result was a polished collectible pin that resonated with both the client and their target audience.
Conclusion
This chibi campfire enamel pin is a perfect example of merging fandom-inspired storytelling with artisanal craftsmanship. With rich color fills, expressive character work, and durable finishes, it reflects the best qualities of enamel pin making. Whether worn on a jacket or displayed on a pinboard, this piece brings warmth, humor, and a little spark of nostalgia.