1. Overview
Mystery enamel pins have become one of the most engaging collectible formats in recent years. The excitement of unboxing, the challenge of completing a full set, and the thrill of finding rare chase variants make mystery pins an ideal product for brands, artists, and fan communities. This case study highlights how we helped our client develop a full mystery box pin series, combining multiple enamel techniques, premium blind-box packaging, and smooth production coordination from concept to final assembly.
Mystery pin sets require thoughtful design, precise color control, and dependable quality. Because collectors often compare pins side by side, consistency is essential — and every detail, from plating to finish, matters. For this project, we delivered a polished, cohesive mystery pin line that balanced creativity with manufacturing precision.
2. Client Requirements
Our client approached us with a clear goal:
- Produce a 10-pin mystery enamel series, including 2 rare chase variants.
- Blind-box packaging with QR code storytelling elements.
- Smooth enamel surfaces on premium hard enamel pins.
- Distinct effects on select variants to increase collectibility.
- High-quality plating and scratch-resistant surfaces.
They wanted the collection to feel premium yet affordable for mass retail. The client specifically emphasized:
“We want every pin to feel like a small treasure — something collectors would proudly trade or display.”
Because the collection included chase variants, we also planned special finishes such as glitter enamel, glow-in-the-dark accents, and selective sandblasting textures to differentiate them. To support SEO on their future product pages, we also recommended including informational internal links, such as resources on epoxy coating, plating options, and translucent enamel effects.
Relevant guides that helped the client during planning:
3. Crafting Process
Designing mystery pins requires a careful balance between production feasibility and artistic expression. We guided the client through the creation of enamel-ready vector artwork and helped refine line thicknesses to ensure enamel separation during die striking.
Material & Process Choices
- Base metal: Brass for durability and clean line clarity.
- Craft: Hard enamel (imitation enamel) for a smooth, polished surface.
- Plating: A mix of gold, nickel, and dyed black to highlight different themes.
- Special effects: Glow-in-dark, glitter, and translucent enamel for the chase variants.
During consultation, the client asked about increasing the design’s shine without adding gloss resin. We explained that hard enamel naturally provides a smooth, polished finish without needing epoxy. However, for certain pins, applying epoxy can create a subtle dome effect (reference: Epoxy Coating insights via the internal link above).
Balancing Creativity With Production Reality
Some of the original concept sketches included extremely fine linework under 0.8mm. Based on our experience, we suggested adjusting the details to ensure clear die-struck metal lines.
The client appreciated this guidance, noting:
“Your team made sure the designs stayed faithful while still manufacturable — that was a huge relief.”
4. Client Interaction Highlights
Throughout the project, communication played a key role. We provided pre-production proofs, plating samples, and effect demonstrations — such as glitter density options and glow brightness levels.
One of our favorite moments was when we sent the client the first full printed proof sheet. They replied:
“Seeing the whole collection together for the first time was honestly exciting. The colors look so much better than we imagined.”
We also scheduled milestone updates so the client could follow each stage of production:
- Mold carving confirmation
- Base metal stamping
- Enamel sample testing
- Plating and polishing checkpoints
- Final assembly and blind-box packaging verification
This not only increased client confidence but also ensured we delivered exactly what they envisioned.
5. Production Workflow
Our production flow ensured consistent quality across all 10 designs:
Step 1: Mold Creation & Die Striking
Using high-resolution vector graphics, we carved individual molds for each pin. The brass material allowed crisp line formation, ideal for hard enamel.
Step 2: Outline Cutting
Custom cutting molds shaped the pins precisely. Since mystery pins must feel premium in hand, we maintained clean edges and comfortable thickness.
Step 3: Enamel Filling
Hard enamel color pastes were filled by hand. Each color layer was baked and polished before adding the next, giving the iconic hard enamel smoothness.
Step 4: Special Effects for Chase Pins
The rare variants received additional treatment:
- Glitter suspended in enamel for high sparkle.
- Glow-in-the-dark pigments for nighttime appearance.
- Translucent enamel for a stained-glass style finish.
Internal link reference for effects used:
Step 5: Polishing & Plating
Each pin was individually polished and electroplated. Consistency was key — mystery series require identical quality across units to avoid collector dissatisfaction.
Relevant plating reference: https://hipins.com/plating-options/
Step 6: Quality Inspection
We conducted several rounds of QC:
- Color consistency check
- Smoothness verification
- Scratch test
- Plating durability check
- Attachment welding inspection
Step 7: Blind-Box Packaging
The packaging included:
- Sealed inner foil bags
- QR code storytelling insert
- Recyclable printed outer box
We produced equal distribution of all 10 standard designs and randomized placement of the chase variants.
6. Post-Production Details
After production, our team prepared the pins for shipment in climate-safe cartons. We also provided the client with:
- Photography-ready product shots
- Suggested ALT text for their website images
- Recommended SEO keywords for each pin design
- Ideal publishing structure for their collection launch
Example ALT text we prepared for them:
“Hard enamel mystery pin with gold-plated finish, smooth polished surface, and collectible blind-box packaging.”
Additionally, we recommended linking relevant effect pages on their site to increase internal link value — such as epoxy coating, glow enamel, and plating finishes.
7. Client Feedback
When the final shipment arrived, the client shared their thoughts:
“The whole series turned out incredible. The polish, the color accuracy, the glow effect — everything is exactly what we hoped for. Our testers loved the blind-box experience.”
They also mentioned that the chase variant reveal video received high engagement on social media, thanks to the glow enamel and glitter effects that made the rare pins instantly recognizable.
The client’s marketing team later added:
“Your attention to detail made this product line feel cohesive and premium. We’re already planning our next mystery set.”
8. CTA Section
Thinking about creating your own mystery enamel pin series?
Whether you already have artwork or just an idea, we can help bring your concept to life — from vector design and mold creation to final blind-box packaging.
Our team specializes in:
- Soft enamel & hard enamel pins
- Glitter, glow, translucent, and sandblasted effects
- Custom plating and premium finishes
- Full mystery box packaging solutions
Contact us today to start designing your next mystery pin collection!