From Sketch to Sample: 3 Steps to Nail Your Custom Pin Order

Designing and ordering custom enamel pins may sound complex, but the process is simpler than you think. With just three easy steps, you can transform your creative sketch into a polished, professional-quality enamel pin ready to wear or distribute. Whether you’re a designer, event organizer, or collector, understanding the custom pin process helps ensure you get exactly what you envisioned.


Step 1: From Idea to Design — Bringing Your Vision to Life

Every great pin starts with an idea. You can provide a hand-drawn sketch, a digital illustration, or even a rough concept, and our design team will refine it into a production-ready artwork.
Using professional tools like CorelDRAW and Illustrator, we ensure that every color, line, and contour aligns with your expectations.

During this stage, it’s important to:

  • Define the purpose of your pin — is it for a brand, an event, or a collectible series?
  • Choose the style: Soft enamel for texture and vivid color, hard enamel for a smooth, high-end finish, or printed pins for detailed imagery.
  • Select your materials: Copper, iron, zinc alloy, or stainless steel. Each offers a different balance of quality and cost.

As the guide in our training file explains, “We’ll help you step-by-step to identify the most suitable pin process and finish for your needs.”


Step 2: Confirm the Proof — Refining the Details Before Production

Once your artwork is ready, you’ll receive a digital proof showing how the pin will look once produced. This includes:

  • Accurate size and color previews (using the Pantone PMS color system)
  • Details of plating options such as gold, nickel, black nickel, or antique finishes
  • Add-ons like epoxy coating, glitter, or glow-in-the-dark enamel

You’ll also receive a quotation and production timeline at this stage. After confirmation and payment, production begins. If you’d like, we can create a sample pin first — a recommended step for ensuring every detail meets your standards.
Samples typically take 7–10 days, while full production requires 15–20 days, depending on quantity.


Step 3: Production and Delivery — Turning Design into Reality

With the proof approved, our skilled craftsmen bring your pin to life using time-tested techniques like:

  • Die striking or casting to form the pin shape
  • Color filling and baking at controlled temperatures to secure enamel durability
  • Polishing and electroplating for a smooth, gleaming surface
  • Quality inspection to ensure every piece meets our premium standards

As noted in the internal guide, “Each badge undergoes strict inspection before packaging to ensure the highest quality.”

Once complete, your pins are individually packaged — usually in small OPP bags — and shipped securely by express courier. For large quantities, we offer bulk packaging or gift boxes upon request.


Why This Process Matters

Understanding the custom pin process ensures smoother communication, accurate pricing, and consistent results. Whether you need 300 or 5,000 pieces, following these steps guarantees efficiency and craftsmanship from start to finish.

Our clients often tell us:

“We were amazed at how quickly our rough sketch turned into a beautiful pin — the colors and finish were exactly what we imagined!”


FAQs

Q: Can I order pins without a professional design?
Absolutely. A simple sketch or idea is enough — our designers will handle the rest.

Q: What’s the minimum order quantity?
Typically 300 pieces, with discounts and free mold fees for large orders.

Q: Can I choose multiple finishes or plating options in one order?
Yes, as long as each finish has at least 100 pieces.

Q: How long does shipping take?
Most shipments arrive within 2–3 days after production via express delivery.


Ready to Create Your Own Custom Pins?

Transform your concept into a lasting keepsake today. Whether it’s for branding, celebration, or collection, we’ll make sure your pins look and feel exactly right.

Contact us now to start your custom pin journey — from sketch to sample — in just three easy steps.

Cute Custom Pin with Translucent Enamel and Glitter

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.

Ratio Routine 1 pin design png
241009G01 pin photo png
241009G01 修改241214 507 Ratio Routine 1Artwork 2

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.

Elegant Custom Pin with Excellent Craftsmanship

Overview

This custom pin case study explores the design and production process of a high-quality hard enamel lapel pin featuring an elegant, royal-themed character. The custom pin project involved intricate metalwork, vibrant enamel colors, and gold plating, resulting in a premium collectible pin. From concept to final product, each step was meticulously planned to meet the client’s expectations for a polished, durable, and visually stunning accessory.

Custom Pin Design
Custom Pin Artwork
Pin Photo

Pin Design Details

The hard enamel pin design details included:

  • A gold-plated metal base to enhance the luxurious feel.
  • A detailed crown and costume accents that would stand out with fine metalwork.
  • A combination of deep blue and white enamel colors for a striking contrast.
  • Precise color application using Pantone shades to maintain design accuracy.
  • A durable hard enamel finish for a smooth, polished surface.
  • A custom size of 44.5mm, ensuring a noticeable yet wearable pin.
  • Two rubber clutches on the back for secure attachment.
  • Protective packaging using pvc bags and bubble bags to ensure the pins arrived in perfect condition.

Design & Some Production Processes

1. Digital Artwork & Color Proofing

The first step was translating the client’s concept into a detailed digital illustration. The design featured a character with white flowing hair, a royal blue outfit, and a golden crown adorned with small decorative elements. To achieve a visually appealing and accurate finish, the team carefully selected Pantone colors:

  • Gold Metal Plating for the crown, decorative trims, and border.
  • Pantone 7673, 7500, 7444, and 2925 for the various shades of blue.
  • Pantone White 2727 and 551 for highlights and details.
  • Special Effects: Pearlescent and glitter accents to enhance the depth of the colors.

2. Mold Creation

Once the design was approved, the team proceeded with the molding process. A 2.0mm zinc alloy mold was created to capture the fine details of the character’s expression, crown, and intricate outfit.

3. Hard Enamel Filling & Baking

The next step involved filling the recessed areas of the metal base with vibrant enamel colors. Each color was carefully added according to the predefined Pantone specifications, ensuring an even and smooth application. The enamel was then baked at high temperatures to achieve a hardened, scratch-resistant finish.

This process ensured that the final product had rich, saturated hues with a smooth surface.

4. Wet Grinding, Polishing & Plating

Wet grinding can make the metal lines on the pin visible.

To achieve a flawless appearance, the pins were subjected to multiple rounds of polishing. This removed any excess enamel or imperfections, resulting in a smooth, glass-like surface.

These custom pins underwent the gold plating process. This step added a shiny, elegant finish to the metal areas, further enhancing the regal aesthetic.

5. Quality Control & Inspection

Before packaging, each pin underwent a strict quality inspection to check for:

  • Enamel consistency (no color bleeding or missing areas).
  • Gold plating uniformity (no tarnishes or rough edges).
  • Smooth and polished finish (ensuring a premium feel).

Any defective pins were removed from the batch to maintain high-quality standards.

6. Secure Packaging & Delivery

To ensure safe delivery, each pin was individually packed in PVC bags with bubble wrap. This protected them from potential scratches or damage during transit. The final product was then shipped to the client, meeting the agreed-upon deadline.

Final Product & Client Feedback

The finished enamel pin was a perfect representation of the original concept, with vibrant colors, detailed metalwork, and a luxurious gold finish. The combination of deep blue enamel, pearlescent effects, and polished metal created a visually striking collectible piece.

Client Feedback:

“We are incredibly pleased with the final result! The colors are exactly as we imagined, and the gold finish gives it a luxurious touch. The attention to detail is impressive, and our customers love the intricate design. We will definitely order again!”

Conclusion

This custom pin project showcases the craftsmanship, precision, and quality control involved in creating custom enamel pins. By utilizing hard enamel techniques, precise color application, and gold plating, we were able to bring the client’s vision to life with exceptional accuracy.

Whether you’re looking for custom character pins, event merchandise, or corporate branding solutions, our team is dedicated to delivering high-quality enamel pins that stand out.

Interested in Custom Enamel Pins?

Contact us today to discuss your project and let us help you create stunning, collectible enamel pins tailored to your needs!

The Enchantress – A Masterpiece in Custom Pin Design

Pin Design Details

At HIPINS, we believe that every custom pin tells a unique story. Today, we are proud to showcase one of our most exquisite creations: The Enchantress. This project exemplifies our commitment to superior craftsmanship, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to transform a creative vision into a tangible work of art.

artwork of the enchantress

The Design Process

The creation of The Enchantress was a journey of collaboration, precision, and artistry. The client envisioned a design that blended elegance and mysticism, and our team worked diligently to bring that vision to life.

  • Concept Development: Drawing inspiration from celestial themes, our design team began with detailed sketches that captured the graceful flow and enchanting essence of the concept.
  • Material and Techniques: Crafted from durable zinc alloy, the pin features a luxurious gold-plated finish. This 4-inch masterpiece was designed to command attention while ensuring long-lasting quality.
  • Special Features: To enhance its visual appeal, we incorporated:
    • Gradient pearl enamels, offering a soft, luminous effect.
    • Glitter accents to highlight the ethereal elements.
    • A 3D embossed surface, adding depth and dimension to the design.
  • Packaging: Each pin is elegantly mounted on a custom PVC backing card and carefully protected with a bubble wrap pouch to ensure pristine delivery.

pin picture of the enachantress
Effect picture of the echantrss

Key Features of The Enchantress

  • Unparalleled Quality: Combining high-grade materials with expert craftsmanship, every detail of The Enchantress speaks of sophistication and precision.
  • Creative Collaboration: The client was involved at every step, utilizing our complimentary design revision service to fine-tune the details to perfection.
  • Advanced Techniques: By blending modern manufacturing methods with traditional artistry, this pin exemplifies the best of both worlds.

Client Testimonial

“The Enchantress is truly a masterpiece. From the intricate details to the stunning color effects, HIPINS has exceeded all our expectations. This pin has become a favorite among our customers, who frequently remark on its beauty and craftsmanship. HIPINS has proven to be an exceptional partner in creating designs that resonate with our audience.”
— L.C. Pins, Founder of a boutique pin company


Why Choose HIPINS

  • Seventeen Years of Expertise: Since 2007, we have been a trusted partner to businesses worldwide, known for producing high-quality custom metal gifts.
  • Design Excellence: Our team specializes in turning creative visions into reality, offering free artwork and unlimited revisions to ensure satisfaction.
  • Competitive Pricing: With factory-direct pricing, we provide exceptional value, particularly for wholesalers and small businesses.
  • Innovative Features: From glow-in-the-dark finishes to stained glass enamels, we offer diverse customization options to meet your unique needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ)?
We offer flexible solutions for businesses of all sizes, with an MOQ starting at just 50 pieces.

How long does production take?
Our standard production timeline is 15 to 20 business days, including design approvals and quality checks. Rush services are available for time-sensitive projects.

Do you provide international shipping?
Yes, we partner with reliable couriers to deliver products to clients around the globe.

Can I mix designs within an order?
Absolutely. We accommodate multiple designs or variations in a single order to offer maximum flexibility.


Explore More

Discover our extensive range of custom pins and promotional gifts:
Visit HIPINS
Explore Our Portfolio


Join Our Community

Stay updated with our latest designs and insights:


Contact Us

Let’s create something exceptional together. For inquiries or to start your custom design project, reach out to us:
Email: sales@hipins.com
Phone: +86-512-57334868


The Enchantress stands as a testament to the harmony of creativity, precision, and dedication. At HIPINS, we are not just manufacturers; we are storytellers who transform ideas into iconic designs. Let us help you bring your vision to life.

Start your journey with HIPINS today.

Small but Exquisite Speech Bubble Design – “Nah, I’d Win”

Overview

This case study highlights the design, production process, and final quality of a custom hard enamel lapel pin project. The featured product is a speech bubble-shaped pin with the iconic text, “Nah, I’d Win.” This project showcases the expertise in creating high-quality, durable enamel pins that reflect the client’s design vision with precision and attention to detail.

Pin Design Details

The “Nah, I’d Win” speech bubble pin features a bold, playful design with sharp lines and a minimalist aesthetic. Measuring 2 inches tall, it uses black nickel plating for the black areas and smooth white hard enamel for the white background. The design emphasizes clarity and contrast, making the text stand out. Custom branding, “Ragdoll Pins,” is engraved on the back for added personalization. This durable, eye-catching pin is perfect for collectors and everyday wear, offering a blend of high-quality craftsmanship and fun visual appeal.

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Artwork Process

This client told us some details of this pin. We arranged the artwork according to the requirements and sent it to the client. This client’s feedback: “It looks perfect!”

Original Design of Speech Bubble Design
Backstamp of Speech Bubble Design
Artwork of Speech Bubble Design

Crafting Process

The speech bubble pin’s production process involved several key steps, ensuring a perfect translation from design to finished product.

  1. Metalwork & Molding
    • The speech bubble pin was crafted using 1.8mm-thick zinc alloy, offering the ideal balance of durability and lightweight wearability.
    • A precise mold was created to replicate the sharp angles and unique shape of the speech bubble. The raised areas, including the outline and text, were prepared for the black nickel plating process.
  2. Enamel Filling
    • The recessed areas of the pin were filled with white hard enamel. This technique ensures a smooth, long-lasting finish that resists chipping or fading over time.
  3. Wet grinding
  4. Polishing
    • After wet grinding, the pins underwent multiple rounds of polishing to ensure a seamless transition between the raised black nickel areas and the smooth enamel surface.
  5. Plating
  6. Quality Control & Packaging
    Each pin was inspected for alignment, finish, and attachment security. The finished products were then individually packaged in protective PVC bags to ensure they arrived in pristine condition.
  7. Shipping

Final Product

The completed lapel pin was an exact match to the client’s vision. The speech bubble design stood out with its bold black nickel plating against the smooth white enamel background. The text “Nah, I’d Win” was sharp, legible, and perfectly centered, ensuring it would be eye-catching and easy to read when worn. The dual rubber clutches provided secure fastening and comfort, making the pin suitable for various uses, from everyday wear to collectible displays.

The 2-inch size added to its visual appeal, making it the perfect statement piece for enthusiasts and collectors. The added custom backstamp further enhanced the pin’s value as a branded product.

Client Feedback

Upon receiving the final product, the client was highly satisfied with the result. They noted the accuracy in design replication and the high-quality finish. They shared the following feedback:
“We were thrilled with how the final pins turned out! The production process was seamless, and the team captured every detail of our design perfectly. The backstamp branding was a nice touch that exceeded our expectations.”

Conclusion

This project demonstrated the ability to efficiently produce custom hard enamel lapel pins without compromising on quality or detail. From the precise molding to the smooth enamel finish and custom branding, the “Nah, I’d Win” speech bubble pin is a testament to craftsmanship and attention to client needs. Whether for personal use, branding, or merchandise, enamel pins like this one continue to stand out as versatile and impactful products.

For similar projects, our streamlined production workflow ensures fast turnarounds, exceptional detail, and consistent quality. Contact us today to bring your designs to life!

High Quality Custom Pin with Texture

Pin Design Overview

This custom pin beautifully combines three standout techniques: the translucent enamel creates a background that adds depth and sophistication, while the glitter effect on the vibrant red dress enhances its eye-catching appeal. Additionally, the textured finish in the background provides subtle contrast, elevating the design’s overall dimension and tactile charm. Together, these elements create a visually stunning and intricately crafted piece.

High Quality Custom Lapel Pin

The Allure of Translucent Enamel

Translucent enamel is one of the most elegant effects in modern custom pin design. Unlike traditional regular enamel, translucent enamel creates a grainy finish. This effect adds depth and dimension, making the design pop.

This effect can be used in many aspects. For example, in this custom pin, the background features a peach-colored translucent enamel. This effect highlights the elegance of the design while ensuring the text remains legible and eye-catching.

Glitter: Adding Glamour and Shine

Few effects capture attention as quickly as glitter. This shimmering detail is ideal for adding a touch of glamour, making designs sparkle under various lighting conditions. Glitter often creates a smooth yet dazzling finish.

Why Choose Glitter?

  • Enhanced Visibility: The sparkle naturally draws attention to key design elements.
  • Custom Appeal: Available in a variety of colors to match specific themes or moods.
  • Versatility: Suitable for many items from promotional products to collectible memorabilia.

In the custom pin design, glitter elevates the red dress, turning it into the centerpiece of the pin. This effect not only emphasizes the character’s personality but also adds vibrancy to the overall composition.

Textured Finish: Bringing Designs to Life

Texture is a subtle yet powerful tool in lapel pin design. By incorporating some areas, designers can add tactile elements that make the pin stand out—both visually and physically. Textures can simulate intricate patterns.

Here are some creative Uses of Texture:

  • Character Details: Highlight features like hair, clothing, or accessories with raised textures.
  • Logos and Lettering: Add a unique feel to typography or branding elements.
  • Thematic Designs: Mimic natural elements such as wood grain, stone, or fabric.

The texture on this custom pin’s background brings depth and contrast, making the enamel and glitter details even more prominent. This approach ensures the pin catches the eye from every angle.

Why Combine These Effects?

Using translucent enamel, glitter, and texture together to create a high quality custom pin. Each effect complements the others:

  • Translucent enamel adds elegance and depth.
  • Glitter provides sparkle and vibrancy.
  • Texture enhances detail and tactile interest.

Industry Insights: Why Effects Matter

The art of custom pin design lies in the details. Techniques like translucent enamel, glitter, and texture can transform a simple accessory into a cherished collectible. Whether you’re a designer looking for inspiration or a business seeking unique branding solutions, embracing these effects ensures your pins stand out from the crowd. These features appeal to customers who value originality, artistry, and quality. Moreover, they can elevate a brand’s image, making promotional pins feel less like giveaways and more like exclusive keepsakes.

FAQs

1. How does glitter enhance a lapel pin’s appeal?
Glitter adds a dazzling, sparkling effect to specific areas of a pin, drawing attention to key design features and making the pin more vibrant and eye-catching.

2. What are the benefits of using translucent enamel in lapel pins?
Translucent enamel adds depth, elegance, and a high-end look to lapel pins, making them ideal for designs that require a grainy feeling.

3. What is the purpose of textured finishes in lapel pins?
Textured finishes add a tactile and visual dimension to lapel pins, enhancing details like backgrounds, patterns, or specific elements, while providing a sense of depth and contrast.

HIPINS Pin Factory – Your Expert in High-Quality Custom Pin

HIPINS specializes in custom pin manufacturing, offering a wide range of high-quality products such as pins, medals, commemorative coins, and keychains. With years of industry experience and advanced production techniques, we deliver exceptional pin solutions for corporate branding, events, and awards.

Mermaid-themed enamel pin with red hair and green dress, set against a snowy winter background with Christmas lights and decorated pine trees.
Kawaii enamel pin featuring a cute witch girl holding a black cat, inspired by anime, surrounded by colorful flowers and a clock tower design.

Core Advantages of a Professional Pin Factory

  1. Premium Materials: HIPINS uses high-quality metal materials like brass, stainless steel, and zinc alloy to ensure durability and color retention.
  2. Advanced Techniques: Our factory employs various sophisticated techniques including die-casting, enamel filling, screen printing, and laser engraving to meet diverse customization needs.
  3. Fast Turnaround: The efficient production line and experienced team at HIPINS ensure quick delivery from design to final product, meeting tight deadlines.
  4. Custom Options: We offer a range of customization features like gold plating, silver plating, anti-oxidation coating, and 3D effects, guaranteeing outstanding visual appeal and superior quality.

Custom Pins for Various Applications

  • Corporate Gifts and Branding: Custom pins serve as effective tools for brand promotion, ideal for employee rewards, customer giveaways, and event souvenirs.
  • Sports Events and Awards: Design unique medals and commemorative pins for sports events and school competitions, adding significant value to your events.
  • Government and Organization Memorabilia: We offer specialized production of commemorative coins and pins for government bodies and non-profit organizations, enhancing ceremonial events.
  • Personalized Gifts: Provide unique custom pins for personal clients, such as wedding commemoratives and anniversary pins.

HIPINS Custom Pin Production Process

  1. Requirement Consultation: Discuss the client’s needs and offer professional design advice.
  2. Design Confirmation: Provide sample design drafts and make revisions as needed.
  3. Manufacturing: Ensure meticulous craftsmanship with strict quality control throughout the process.
  4. Packaging and Shipping: Use elegant packaging to protect the pins during transit and ensure they arrive in perfect condition.