Tag Hard Enamel Pins

Overview

A client approached us with a playful yet refined design concept: a collection of custom enamel pins featuring expressive hippos. The goal was to create a five-piece series that captured humor and charm through diverse character expressions, while maintaining a high-end, collectible quality. The final result? A stunning collection of hard enamel pins, each with gold-plated edges, vibrant PMS-matched colors, and polished to a flawless gloss.

This project exemplified the full capabilities of our team—from design adaptation to high-precision die-striking, hard enamel craftsmanship, and meticulous quality control.

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Pin Design Details

From the outset, the client emphasized a few critical points:

• A uniform size range (28.5mm–40mm) to keep the collection cohesive
• Hard enamel process to ensure a smooth, jewelry-like surface finish
• Gold metal plating across all pins for an upscale look
• Accurate Pantone color matching
• Detailed facial expressions and accessory effects
• A custom backstamp featuring their logo
• Retail-ready packaging with PVC + bubble wrap protection

The client aimed to market the pins both as fashion accessories and collectibles for young adults and lifestyle consumers.

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Design Development

The client supplied high-resolution illustrations of five hippo characters, each conveying a different emotion or scenario:

1. A calm hippo being gently patted
2. A startled hippo with a large exclamation mark
3. A front-facing hippo roaring dramatically
4. A hippo smiling with a bird sitting atop its head
5. A surprised hippo splashed by water

Each design was converted into vector outlines using Adobe Illustrator and underwent several optimization steps:

• Adjusting line thickness to ensure clean mold engraving
• Mapping PMS colors for enamel filling (e.g., PMS 7418, 504, 324)
• Identifying raised metal lines for plating
• Defining UV print areas for facial details like blush and highlights
• Integrating the backstamp for brand visibility

After three rounds of revisions, the client approved all proofs and the production plan.

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Crafting Process

Our production team applied the hard enamel technique, known for producing a smooth, polished finish where enamel fills are flush with the surrounding metal. This process involves:

1. Mold Creation & Die Striking
   Using CNC engraving, each character’s outline and cutline was engraved into a high-strength steel mold. The designs were then struck into thick zinc alloy base blanks—ideal for capturing both detail and strength.
2. Gold Plating
   The entire surface was electroplated with a rich gold tone. This not only enhanced the visual appeal but also provided corrosion resistance.
3. Enamel Filling
   Individual enamel colors were hand-filled into recessed areas using PMS color guides. The hippo cheeks, for example, featured a warm blush tone (PMS 7418), while the water splash used a pearlescent aqua (PMS 324 + shimmer additive).
4. Oven Curing
   After filling, each pin was cured at high temperatures to “bake in” the color and hardness.
5. Grinding & Polishing
   Multiple polishing passes were used to remove excess enamel and reveal a perfectly flat surface. The result was a smooth and lustrous finish—indistinguishable from traditional cloisonné to the naked eye.
6. UV Printing (Selective)
   For added expression, fine lines and blush spots were UV printed, giving the faces more life and charm.

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Quality Control

Each of the 400 pins underwent strict inspection. The breakdown was:

• 70 pcs: Patting hippo
• 80 pcs: Exclamation hippo
• 80 pcs: Roaring hippo
• 90 pcs: Smiling hippo with chick
• 80 pcs: Splashing hippo

QC Focus Areas:

• Color Accuracy vs PMS standard
• Surface Smoothness and polish consistency
• Backstamp Readability
• Clutch Attachment Test (pull resistance)
• Packaging Sealing & Labeling

The customer commented: “We were impressed by the high-quality finish and polished detailing. The color fill was flawless across all designs.”

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Packaging & Delivery

To ensure retail readiness, each pin was:

• Individually bagged in PVC sleeves with bubble wrap
• Grouped by design into labeled inner packs
• Shipped with a digital QC report and sample photos

Thanks to precise planning and streamlined production, the entire batch was completed and shipped within 16 working days, including mold time and UV print setup.

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Post-Production Support

Following the client’s initial launch, feedback from their community was overwhelmingly positive. Customers appreciated the sturdy feel and smooth texture of the pins, along with the vivid expressions and glossy finish. The splash effect pin, in particular, received standout reviews for its pearlescent detailing.

The client has since confirmed a follow-up project involving:

• Seasonal variants (e.g., winter accessories)
• Matching keychains and charms
• Eco-friendly card packaging with branding

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Conclusion

This hippo enamel pin series highlights how charming design and industrial craftsmanship can unite in a product that resonates with customers emotionally and aesthetically. From the first vector line to the last polish, our team ensured that every detail met premium standards.

If you’re a designer, brand, or retailer seeking to turn your characters or stories into tactile, collectible items, we’re here to bring your vision to life—with guidance, transparency, and expertise at every step.

Overview

The rapunzel pins are meticulously designed with a floral theme that combines elegance and intricate details. The rapunzel pins feature a character surrounded by delicate flowers, designed in two distinct color schemes, each showcasing the versatility of enamel pin production techniques. These rapunzel pins serve as a prime example of how thoughtful design and high-quality craftsmanship can result in a unique, eye-catching product. In this case, the project employed many effects.

Pin Design Details

• Style: Hard Enamel Pin Featuring an elegant character adorned with flowers
• Size: 4 inches
• Plating: Gold
• Effect: Gradient Pearl no Swirls/Pearl no Swirls/Glow in Dark/Glitter/Translucent Enamel/Gemstone/UV Print
• Backside: Custom Backstamp
• Accessory: Rubber Clutches
• Packaging: Pvc Bag+Bubble Bag

Artwork Process

The design process of rapunzel pins began with our talented in-house artists working closely with the client to fine-tune the concept. The character’s posture, accessories, and flowers were carefully mapped out to ensure that every detail was accounted for. Once the design was finalized, we would send the artwork to the client for approval. Then we would make changes based on the client’s suggestions until the client approved artwork for production.

Materials Selection

The rapunzel pins were crafted from zinc alloy, which offers the durability needed for high-quality enamel pin production. This material was chosen for its ability to capture fine details while remaining lightweight enough for comfortable wear. For the color elements, the client chose hard enamel. Of course, the client also chose UV print and screen print.

Client Interaction Highlights

Throughout the design and production process, our client was involved at every step. Regular updates and approval stages ensured that the design met their exact specifications. The client particularly appreciated our ability to adjust color palettes to match their vision, as well as our suggestions for metallic finishes that would complement the design’s intricate details.

Our production team also worked closely with the client to ensure that the size and shape of the pins were perfect for their intended purpose, allowing for easy attachment to clothing or bags. Adjustments were made based on the client’s feedback, with several revisions to ensure the overall appearance met their expectations.

Production Workflow

Once the design was approved, the production process began with the creation of molds. The first step involved precision die-striking, followed by the application of enamel. The hard enamel was carefully applied by hand to the recessed areas. After the enamel was set, each pin underwent a high-temperature baking process, which ensured that the colors were fixed in place for lasting vibrancy.

After the enamel work was completed, the rapunzel pins needed to go through wet grinding to make the metal lines on pin visible and polishing to remove some blemishes. The addition of metallic gold plating provided a refined finish, accentuating the intricate details of the design. After plating, these rapunzel pins would be sent for print. The pins were then carefully inspected to ensure that every product met our rigorous quality standards.

Post-Production Details

Once the pins were fully crafted and quality-checked, they were packaged individually to ensure safe delivery. The client was provided with options for packaging, and after selecting the appropriate option, the pins were ready to be shipped.

Client Feedback

After receiving the final products, the client expressed great satisfaction with the outcome. They noted the smooth finish and vivid colors of the floral details, which aligned perfectly with their expectations. The client was especially impressed with how the enamel work brought the character to life, as the metallic borders and the carefully chosen enamel techniques highlighted the design in a way that made the pins both elegant and unique.

“Our client said: ‘The turnaround time and enamel quality exceeded expectations. The vibrant colors and high-quality materials made these pins stand out beautifully, and the intricate details really show the care that went into the design.’“

Conclusion

This project of rapunzel pins exemplifies the importance of collaboration between the client and production team, as well as the impact of thoughtful design and high-quality materials in creating an exceptional product. We were able to produce pins that captured the essence of the client’s vision while maintaining top-notch quality.

Call to Action

If you’re looking to create your own custom enamel pins with detailed, high-quality craftsmanship, don’t hesitate to reach out! Contact us today for a consultation and start bringing your design to life with our expert enamel pin production services.

Overview

The project in question revolves around a series of custom enamel pins featuring characters from a beloved animated series. The custom enamel pins depict the characters Ladybug and Cat Noir in a moment of closeness, highlighting their romantic bond. These custom enamel pins were designed to capture both the iconic style of the characters and the essence of the series, using vibrant colors and detailed craftsmanship to create unique and collectible items.

Pin Design Details

Crafting Process

The creation of these custom enamel pins involved several stages of design, production, and quality control to ensure that the final product met the client’s expectations.

1. Design Phase: The design was split into multiple colors, using Pantone color codes for accuracy. The characters were drawn in their iconic outfits, with intricate details like the red spots on Ladybug’s suit and the sleek black body suit of Cat Noir.The final artwork was refined to accommodate the metal lines that would define the contours of each design. These lines were planned to be raised to create a slight texture, enhancing the tactile experience of the pin.
2. Pin Production: After finalizing the design, production started with the mold. We use zinc alloy as mold material to ensure that the base metal was strong and lightweight. For these pins, the client opted for hard enamel with raised metal lines that would create a smooth, shiny finish. Workers carefully filled in the areas that needed to be colored. A combination of gold plating and a pearl finish was used to accentuate the pins, giving them a glossy, premium feel. This plating process was executed with precision to avoid any discoloration or imperfections, ensuring that each pin had a perfect surface. Wet grinding made the metal lines on the pin visible. The edges of the pins were carefully polished to highlight the fine details.
3. Coloring and Details: The colors on the custom enamel pins were filled with Pantone-approved enamel colors, ensuring they closely matched the characters’ recognizable hues. Ladybug’s red spots, Cat Noir’s black suit, and their gold accents were all meticulously applied using hand-painting techniques. This helped maintain the vibrancy of the colors and ensured that every pin was unique.The glossy coating over the enamel provided an added layer of protection, enhancing the durability of the design while maintaining its visual appeal. The inclusion of a raised gold metal finish around the outline of the characters added depth to the overall design, making it stand out visually.
4. Screen Print: After plating, the pins usually were sent for screen print.
5. Quality Control: Each pin went through rigorous quality control to ensure there were no imperfections in the enamel or metal work. The pins were carefully inspected for any defects, such as color bleeding or uneven plating. Any pin that did not meet the required standards was removed from the batch.The final product was not just a pin but a collectible item.

Client Interaction Highlights

Regular updates were provided to keep the client informed of progress. Throughout the process, there was close communication between our team and the client to ensure that the designs matched their vision for the product. The client was very hands-on with the design approvals, ensuring that each detail—from the shading on Ladybug’s suit to the placement of the gold accents on Cat Noir’s suit—was perfect.

Post-Production Details

The post-production phase involved sorting, packing, and preparing the pins for shipment. The client requested a pvc bag and a bubble baf for each pin. These additional touches added to the premium feel of the pins and helped position them as exclusive collector’s items.

Client Feedback

The client was thrilled with the results. They said, “We’re so pleased with the final pins. The quality of the enamel and the craftsmanship truly exceed expectations. Fans will absolutely love them!”

The pins were received enthusiastically by the fan community, and their limited-edition status contributed to a successful launch. Fans of the series were excited to add these high-quality pins to their collections, and the product’s exclusivity helped create a sense of urgency among buyers.

Conclusion

This project was a success, blending high-quality craftsmanship with passionate fan engagement. The attention to detail and commitment to quality ensured that the pins would be treasured by collectors for years to come. This collaboration shows the importance of understanding client needs, maintaining clear communication throughout the production process, and delivering a product that exceeds expectations.

In the world of custom enamel pins, hard enamel has become one of the most sought-after styles. Known for its smooth, polished surface and high-quality appearance, it offers an elegant and professional look while remaining cost-effective. Whether for corporate branding, fan merchandise, or commemorative events, hard enamel pins continue to be the preferred choice for many businesses and collectors. But what exactly makes these pins so popular? Let’s explore their unique characteristics, advantages, and why so many brands choose them.

What Are Hard Enamel Pins

Also called epola or synthetic enamel, hard enamel pins are made through a process that combines the vibrant colors of soft enamel with the sleek finish of cloisonné. Liquid enamel is carefully filled into the recessed areas of a stamped metal base, then baked at high temperatures to harden the colors. Unlike soft enamel pins, which have a textured surface, hard enamel pins undergo an additional polishing step, ensuring a completely smooth and glossy finish.

The result is a luxurious pin with clean lines, vibrant colors, and a durable surface, making it an excellent alternative to traditional cloisonné enamel, which is often more expensive and limited in color options.

Key Advantages of Hard Enamel Pins

Many brands and organizations prefer hard enamel pins over other types due to their exceptional quality and affordability. Here are some of their biggest advantages:

1. Smooth, Polished Finish

One of the most noticeable features of hard enamel pins is their glass-like, polished surface. Unlike soft enamel pins, which have raised metal edges and recessed colors, hard enamel is polished flat, creating a sleek and high-end appearance similar to genuine cloisonné.

2. Vibrant and Long-Lasting Colors

Hard enamel pins use Pantone-matched liquid enamel, allowing for precise color reproduction. Special effects such as translucent enamel, glitter, and glow-in-the-dark can also be added to enhance the design. Since the enamel is baked and polished, it resists fading and chipping over time.

3. Sharp Metal Details

The metal outlines of hard enamel pins are well-defined and electroplated in various finishes, including gold, silver, black nickel, and antique styles. This plating enhances the pin’s visual appeal, making it stand out while adding a layer of durability.

4. Highly Durable and Scratch-Resistant

Since the enamel is polished flush with the metal surface, hard enamel pins are more resistant to scratches and general wear and tear than soft enamel pins. This makes them ideal for long-term use, whether as corporate badges, collector’s items, or fashion accessories.

Why Brands and Events Choose Hard Enamel Pins

Because of their professional and premium appearance, hard enamel pins are widely used across various industries. Here are some of the most common applications:

• Corporate and Employee Pins – Many companies use hard enamel pins for branding and employee recognition. The polished look reflects professionalism and brand prestige.
• Music and Fan Merchandise – Bands, artists, and influencers often create custom enamel pins for their fans. Hard enamel ensures a high-quality, collectible feel.
• Sports and Event Memorabilia – Ideal for tournaments, marathons, and other major events, hard enamel pins serve as durable keepsakes that participants cherish.
• Club and Organization Badges – Schools, clubs, and associations use hard enamel pins to strengthen team identity and create a sense of unity among members.

How to Customize Your Hard Enamel Pins

Ordering custom hard enamel pins is a straightforward process with HIPINS. Here’s how you can create your perfect pin:

1. Submit Your Design or Idea

If you already have a design, simply send it to us. If not, our expert team can help bring your vision to life with a custom design.

2. Choose Size, Colors, and Metal Finish

Select the pin dimensions, Pantone-matched colors, and electroplating options that best suit your brand or event.

3. Approve the Digital Proof

We will provide a high-resolution proof of your design before production begins, allowing you to make adjustments and ensure every detail is perfect.

4. Production and Delivery

Once approved, we move forward with precision manufacturing, ensuring every pin meets our high standards. Your custom enamel pins will be delivered quickly and efficiently.

Get Started with HIPINS Today

Hard enamel pins are the perfect balance between quality, affordability, and durability. Whether you need custom pins for branding, merchandising, or special events, HIPINS is here to bring your ideas to life.

Contact us today to start creating your own unique hard enamel pins.

Hard Enamel Pins are a popular choice for custom lapel pins due to their durable, smooth finish and vibrant colors. However, when it comes to applying dual-tone plating (a technique where two distinct metals are used on the same pin), it’s quite rare. While dual-tone plating adds a sophisticated touch to pins, there are several reasons why it’s not commonly applied to hard enamel pins. In this post, we’ll explore the challenges of using dual-tone plating on hard enamel pins and why this technique is less frequently used.

What are Hard Enamel Pins?

Before delving into the reasons for the rarity of dual-tone plating on hard enamel pins, it’s important to understand what hard enamel pins are. Hard enamel pins are made using a process that involves filling metal cavities with a colored enamel and then baking it at high temperatures. This results in a smooth, flat surface that is much more durable than soft enamel. The final product has a high-quality finish that resembles the appearance of jewelry, which is why they are often chosen for premium pins.

Challenges of Applying Dual-Tone Plating to Hard Enamel Pins

1. Plating Over Enamel

The challenge with dual-tone plating on hard enamel pins lies in the fact that the enamel filling has already been cured and is very smooth. During the plating process, the areas that require different metals need to be masked off carefully. Any inconsistencies in the plating can affect the overall finish, causing issues with the quality of the final product.

2. Cost and Time Complexity

Dual-tone plating requires a more intricate and time-consuming process compared to single-tone plating. The dual-tone plating process involves multiple stages, such as:

• Masking Areas: The pin must be carefully masked to protect certain areas from receiving the second metal finish. This requires precision and adds time to the production process.
• Separate Plating Baths: Each metal finish must be applied in different plating baths, which means that the production time increases significantly.

While these steps are manageable for other types of pins, they add complexity to the already elaborate hard enamel pin production process. Because hard enamel pins are often produced in large quantities, the added cost and production time can make dual-tone plating an inefficient choice.

3. Risk of Ruining the Smooth Finish

One of the biggest selling points of hard enamel pins is their smooth, polished surface. The process of applying dual-tone plating involves covering certain parts of the pin with a different metal, which introduces additional layers on top of the hard enamel. This can potentially disrupt the smooth surface finish that is so highly valued in hard enamel pins.

• Surface Disruption: The additional metal layer applied during dual-tone plating can alter the flatness of the enamel surface, leading to a less polished and less attractive finish.
• Ink Bleeding and Inconsistencies: During the masking and plating stages, there is a risk of ink bleeding into the areas that should remain untouched, causing discoloration or uneven finishes.

For this reason, manufacturers tend to avoid dual-tone plating on hard enamel pins to ensure that the smooth, high-quality surface is maintained.

4. Design and Aesthetic Considerations

Hard enamel pins typically have a clean, minimalist design that benefits from a consistent, solid finish. The aesthetic of these pins is often simple yet elegant, with each color separated by raised metal lines. Adding dual-tone plating could distract from this subtle beauty and make the design feel busier or overly complex.

• Design Focus: Hard enamel pins often rely on bold, simple designs that don’t require the extra complexity of dual-tone finishes. While dual-tone plating works well for other types of pins, such as soft enamel or die-struck pins, it doesn’t always complement the design language of hard enamel pins.

When Is Dual-Tone Plating Suitable for Pins?

Dual-tone plating can be a great choice for certain pin designs, but it’s not ideal for hard enamel pins. It is typically used for:

• Die-Struck Pins: These pins, made by pressing a metal die into the pin’s surface, have a more traditional design, making them better suited for dual-tone plating.
• Soft Enamel Pins: Soft enamel pins have raised metal areas where the enamel is applied in a more flexible manner, making them more suitable for dual-tone finishes that can emphasize the texture and contrast.

Dual-tone plating is also commonly used for challenge coins, medallions, and commemorative items where the contrast between the two metals is part of the design strategy.

Conclusion: Why Hard Enamel Pins Rarely Use Dual-Tone Plating

Hard enamel pins are beloved for their sleek, smooth, and durable finish. While dual-tone plating offers an elegant contrast and depth, it’s not typically used for hard enamel pins due to several challenges, including process incompatibility, increased costs, and the risk of damaging the smooth enamel surface.

Manufacturers opt for single-tone plating for hard enamel pins because it ensures the polished, jewelry-like finish that makes these pins so desirable. While dual-tone plating may be an excellent choice for other types of pins, it’s not always the right match for hard enamel pins, which require a more delicate approach to maintain their distinctive look.

If you’re looking for a refined and long-lasting finish, hard enamel pins with single-tone plating are an excellent choice. However, if you’re after something with more contrast and texture, you might consider soft enamel or die-struck pins with dual-tone plating.

Want to create custom lapel pins with the perfect finish?
Contact us today to learn more about our pin production services and find the best options for your design.

In 2024, HIPINS reinforced its leadership in the global pin manufacturing industry by focusing on Hard Enamel Pins and Pearl Effects. This year, we not only consolidated our position in traditional markets but also attracted a growing number of fans and collectors through innovative designs and diverse product offerings.

Key Market Insights

• Top Pin Style: Hard Enamel Pins
  Hard enamel pins continued to dominate sales due to their smooth surface, vibrant colors, and exceptional durability. These pins are particularly suited for intricate designs, making them a favorite in fan merchandise, commemorative pins, and art collections. From anime-themed pins to limited-edition event memorabilia, hard enamel remains the go-to option for premium-quality products.
• Most Popular Effect: Pearl Effect
  The subtle sheen and elegant texture of pearl effects have positioned them as a standout in the collectible and fan pin markets. These designs are highly valued for their thematic versatility and refined appearance, making them perfect for special occasions such as celebrations and exclusive exhibitions.

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Highlights of Craftsmanship and Innovation

Guided by our philosophy of blending tradition with innovation, HIPINS introduced a range of new techniques and styles in 2024:

• Gradient Colors: Seamless transitions that enhance modern and creative designs.
• Glitter Effects: Eye-catching visuals that resonate with younger audiences.
• Glow-in-the-Dark: A practical and fun feature for nighttime events and outdoor activities.

The Pearl Effect, with its luxurious texture and distinctive appeal, has become a symbol of excellence in the premium collectible market.

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Enhanced Customer Experience

To better serve our clients, HIPINS implemented several key initiatives:

1. Real-Time Production Updates: Clients can monitor the progress of their orders via photos and videos.
2. Unlimited Design Revisions: We offer free adjustments to ensure every detail is perfected.
3. 24-Hour Response Guarantee: Faster response times for consultations and revisions, improving efficiency.

Our optimized logistics system ensures on-time delivery for all orders, even for urgent projects.

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Market Expansion and Product Diversification

• Thematic Pin Collections
  This year, we launched a variety of themed pins, including movie and TV show merchandise, concert-exclusive editions, and city-themed commemorative pins. These products serve not only as accessories but also as unique expressions of personal identity and interests.
• Global Market Penetration
  HIPINS successfully expanded its reach across various regions with tailored market strategies. The U.S. market demonstrated strong demand for personalized fan pins, while European clients appreciated the intricate craftsmanship and artistic value. Emerging markets such as Southeast Asia and South America also showed growing interest in hard enamel and pearl effect pins.
• Online and Offline Integration
  By leveraging social media and showcasing case studies online, we continued to engage new prospects. Participation in industry exhibitions further elevated our brand visibility and strengthened our presence in international markets.

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Conclusion and Future Outlook

In 2024, HIPINS excelled not only in revenue growth but also in understanding and meeting the needs of our customers. Looking ahead, we will remain focused on Hard Enamel Pins and Pearl Effects, driving innovation in design and craftsmanship to create more iconic pieces for fans and collectors worldwide.

Three FAQs for HIPINS Annual Summary

1. What makes hard enamel pins a popular choice in 2024?

Hard enamel pins remain popular due to their smooth, polished finish, vibrant colors, and long-lasting durability. They are perfect for detailed designs, making them ideal for fan merchandise, commemorative pins, and art collections.

2. How does the pearl effect enhance custom pin designs?

The pearl effect adds a subtle shimmer and elegant texture, making it suitable for sophisticated themes like weddings, celebrations, and exclusive exhibitions. This effect elevates the overall design, offering a unique and refined look for collectors.

3. What customer service improvements did HIPINS introduce in 2024?

In 2024, HIPINS enhanced customer service with real-time production updates, unlimited design revisions, and a 24-hour response guarantee. These initiatives ensure better communication, higher satisfaction, and timely delivery for all orders.