Key Points to Consider When Turning Complex Designs into Lapel Pins

When designing lapel pins, especially when the design is intricate, transforming it into a functional pin is a challenge. Lapel pins are powerful tools for conveying brand messages, emotions, and culture. However, translating complex designs into pins requires attention to several important factors. Here are some key considerations when turning a complex design into a lapel pin:

Disney Princess Collection Hard Enamel Pins on a Dreamy Pink Background

1. Simplify Design Elements

Complex designs often include numerous small details. While these details may be meaningful in the original design, they can easily get distorted during the pin-making process. Therefore, simplifying the design is necessary to ensure the pin’s recognizability. Consider what elements are most essential and represent the core message, while reducing less important details.

2. Choose the Right Material

The material of the pin directly affects the final result. Different materials have different abilities to present details, such as metals, hard plastics, and soft materials. Metal pins are ideal for sharp, clear lines and details, while soft materials may be better for gradient colors or more intricate patterns. The material choice should be based on the pin’s purpose, target audience, and the specific design needs.

3. Control Colors and Layers

Complex designs often use multiple colors, but too many colors on a pin can make the design look chaotic and cluttered. To ensure visual clarity, it’s essential to use simplified color schemes and blocks to enhance the design. Especially on smaller pins, excessive colors may confuse the design, so controlling contrast and layers is key.

4. Adjust Fonts and Layout

If the design includes text, choosing the right font and layout is crucial. Too much text can make the pin feel overcrowded and affect its legibility. Simplifying the text and choosing clear, readable fonts, while adjusting the text layout to match the pin’s shape and size, will ensure the pin is both stylish and informative.

5. Consider Pin Size

Lapel pins are typically small, meaning even complex designs must be effectively displayed within limited space. When designing, consider the actual size of the pin and avoid excessive details to maintain recognizability in a compact form. Adjust proportions appropriately to avoid overcrowding.

6. Ensure Feasibility of Production Techniques

Different production techniques (such as die-struck, uv printing, or spraying) have varying capabilities in handling design details. Before making the pin, it’s important to understand the limitations of the production process. For example, die-struck pins may struggle with intricate gradients or fine details, while screen printing is ideal for flat designs. Designers should adjust their designs according to the capabilities of the production method.

7. Create Prototypes and Evaluate

After finalizing the design, it’s essential to create prototypes and evaluate them under different lighting and angles. Prototype evaluation helps identify potential issues such as color distortion, loss of detail, or unclear text. This step is critical in ensuring the final product achieves the best possible result.

Conclusion

Turning a complex design into a lapel pin is not an easy task. It requires careful attention to simplifying the design, choosing the right materials, controlling colors Refer to Pantone colorand layers, adjusting fonts, and considering pin size. By combining these considerations with production techniques, designers can ensure that the final pin is both beautiful and functional. Through continuous optimization and adjustments, the final pin will effectively convey the design’s essence, becoming an important tool for branding and marketing.

Zelda Crystal Lapel Pin Design

Overview

The “Zelda Crystal” lapel pin is a stunning example of collaborative creativity and precision craftsmanship. This hard enamel pin features a detailed Art Nouveau-inspired design and was developed as a reorder project for our valued client, utilizing a mold we retained for three years to ensure seamless production continuity.

Design and Production Specifications

  • Size and Material: The pin measures 118mm and is crafted from zinc alloy with gold plating, offering a polished and elegant finish.
  • Color Palette: A diverse selection of PMS colors was used, with a focus on subtle gradients, raised metal under translucent enamel, and sandblast textures for added depth and contrast.
  • Attachment and Packaging: The pin includes two rubber clutches for secure attachment and is packaged in PVC bags with bubble wrap for protection.
  • Special Details: Features intricate details, including:
    • Transparent enamel under 1365 PMS.
    • Areas with sandblast effects and pearl gradients.
    • Raised and recessed metallic elements to highlight the design.

Communication Process

The collaboration process was a testament to our client-centric approach. During production, the client provided specific feedback, which we implemented promptly:

  1. Color Adjustments: The client requested changes to specific color elements:
    • PMS 7410 and 472 sandblast areas were changed to PMS 1365.
    • PMS 7410 gradients were adjusted to PMS 600 with a pearl finish (no swirl).
    • Certain areas without sandblast were also updated to PMS 1365.
  2. Timely Updates: Our team maintained clear communication at every step, providing progress updates and visual proofs to ensure alignment with the client’s vision.
This is the artwork we made according to the customer's request.
Here's the client's beautiful design

Production Workflow

  1. Initial Review: Leveraging the existing mold, we verified its condition to ensure it was production-ready.
  2. Color Matching: Adjustments were made based on the client’s PMS requirements, incorporating sandblast effects and pearl finishes as specified.
  3. Sample Development: A sample was produced with the requested changes and shared with the client for approval.
  4. Final Production: Following approval, full-scale production was completed with meticulous quality checks to meet our high standards.
Here's the raw we made from mold
Here's the flowchart we updated for our client during production.

Post-Production and Client Feedback

Once the production sample was shared with the client, they responded with glowing approval:
Looks great, thank you! Approved.
Their feedback highlights their satisfaction with both the design fidelity and the quality of execution.

Conclusion

The “Zelda Crystal” lapel pin demonstrates the importance of preserving molds for reorder projects and fostering open client communication to achieve exceptional results. Our ability to adapt to specific client needs while maintaining production efficiency underscores our commitment to excellence.

For your own custom enamel pin design or reorders, contact us today to bring your vision to life!

FAQs for Zelda Crystal Lapel Pin

  1. How long do you keep molds for reorders?
    We retain molds for up to three years, allowing clients to reorder designs without additional mold fees and ensuring production consistency.
  2. Can I request changes to colors or finishes for a reorder?
    Yes, we accommodate custom requests for color or finish adjustments during the reorder process. Simply provide the specific PMS codes or finishes you’d like to update.
  3. What packaging options are available for pins?
    We offer protective PVC bags with bubble wrap by default, but custom packaging options are available upon request.

HIPINS:The Creative World of Cube Pins

Cube Pin Design Overview

Cube pins are inspired by the geometric elegance of cubes, offering a three-dimensional aesthetic that stands out in any setting. HIPINS excels in providing custom design options tailored to your specific needs. From sleek minimalism to bold and colorful combinations

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Cube Pin Design at HIPINS

At HIPINS, we don’t just create pins – we craft experiences. Cube pins are designed to stand out with their 3D appeal and creative versatility. Here are some key features we specialize in:

  • Custom Shapes: From standard cube designs to intricate patterns, HIPINS ensures precision in every cut and detail.
  • Vibrant Colors and Effects: Choose from glitter enamels, gradient finishes, glow-in-the-dark coatings, and pearl enamels to elevate your designs.
  • Durability: Made with top-grade metals and finishes, our cube pins are built to last.

Whether it’s a corporate event, a commemorative keepsake, or a creative branding project, HIPINS’ cube pins are tailored to meet your exact needs.

Why Choose HIPINS Factory for Your Cube Pins?

As a trusted name in the metal pin manufacturing industry, HIPINS offers unmatched value to clients worldwide. Here’s why we’re the perfect partner for your cube pin projects:

  1. Expert Design Assistance
    Need inspiration? HIPINS provides free design services with unlimited revisions, delivered within just 24 hours.
  2. Factory-Direct Pricing
    With no middleman, our pricing is designed to support bulk orders and wholesale clients without compromising on quality.
  3. Advanced Techniques
    From laser precision to hand-polished finishes, HIPINS employs cutting-edge manufacturing techniques for flawless pins.
  4. Real-Time Updates
    Stay in control with real-time production updates, complete with photos and videos at every stage.
  5. On-Time Delivery
    Whether you’re on a tight deadline or planning ahead, HIPINS guarantees timely delivery without hidden rush fees.
  6. Eco-Friendly Materials
    Sustainability matters. HIPINS uses environmentally friendly materials and processes to ensure a greener future.

Summary: Make a Statement with Cube Pins by HIPINS

HIPINS is more than a manufacturer – we’re your creative partner in bringing ideas to life. Our custom cube pins are perfect for:

  • Enhancing your branding efforts.
  • Creating meaningful giveaways for events.
  • Designing memorable keepsakes for your audience.

At HIPINS, we turn ordinary ideas into extraordinary products. With our expertise, your cube pins will be a masterpiece of design and craftsmanship, guaranteed to impress your audience.

Ready to Get Started?

Create stunning cube pins that set your brand apart!
Visit HIPINS Factory or reach out to our team today to explore how we can make your vision a reality.

Custom Fantasy Pins: A Must for Pin Collectors on Instagram

Custom fantasy pins have captivated a vast community on Instagram, where fans, makers, and collectors connect over these imaginative designs. Whether it’s dragons, enchanted forests, or celestial themes, fantasy pins allow enthusiasts to share their love for mythical worlds. Here’s why fantasy pins have become a must-have for the Instagram community, offering a unique blend of art, storytelling, and connection.

Custom fantasy pins have captivated a vast community on Instagram, where fans, makers, and collectors connect over these imaginative designs.

Why Instagram Fans and Collectors Love Custom Fantasy Pins

1. A Platform for Unique Artistic Expression

Instagram has provided a space where pin makers can showcase their creations, and collectors can discover unique, one-of-a-kind designs. Fantasy pins embody intricate designs with vibrant colors, and many incorporate advanced effects like stained glass enamel and glitter finishes. For inspiration, platforms like Pinterest are also popular for finding creative pin designs.

2. Customizable Designs Reflecting Personal Stories

Instagram’s custom pin community values personal storytelling through design, and fantasy pins allow for endless customization. Whether it’s a favorite mythical creature or a cosmic scene, pin makers can bring fans’ visions to life. With companies like HIPINS, Instagram pin makers can access high-quality customization options, making each pin a personal and meaningful piece of art that collectors love to showcase. For insights into the design process, tools like Canva can be used for drafting pin concepts before production.

3. A Growing Collectible Community on Instagram

For collectors, Instagram offers a community to share their favorite pins, discuss new releases, and even trade pieces. The platform’s visual nature makes it ideal for showcasing fantasy pins with unique effects, such as translucent enamel, adding depth and intrigue to fantasy designs. Communities like the Reddit Pin Collecting Forum also provide a great space for connecting with like-minded enthusiasts.

4. Durability for Long-Term Collecting

Instagram collectors often showcase their pins as lasting pieces of their collections. High-quality materials, like those used in hard enamel finishes, ensure these pins maintain their color and appeal over time. Collectors appreciate knowing that their pins will look great for years, enhancing their lasting value as collectible items.

How HIPINS Supports Instagram Fantasy Pin Makers

HIPINS specializes in helping Instagram pin makers create quality custom fantasy pins by offering a range of design effects like:

  • Hard Enamel Finishes: Durable, polished, and smooth for high-quality collections.
  • Stained Glass Effects: Light-catching, translucent details perfect for mythical themes.
  • Gradient Prints: Blended colors that add depth to cosmic and magical designs.

For more design ideas, check out HIPINS’ full selection of enamel pin options or explore the Glow-in-the-Dark Pin Guide.

FAQ

1. Why are custom fantasy pins so popular on Instagram?

Instagram’s visual nature makes it an ideal platform for discovering and sharing custom fantasy pins. Fans can connect with talented makers and share their collections, while unique effects like glitter, stained glass, and gradient prints add a magical aesthetic that resonates well with the Instagram audience.

2. How can I start a fantasy pin collection on Instagram?

Start by following popular Instagram pin makers and exploring styles that align with your interests, such as mythical creatures or celestial themes. Using companies like HIPINS can ensure quality pieces for your collection. Sharing posts and using hashtags like #FantasyPins and #EnamelPins can also help connect you with the broader Instagram pin community.

3. Can I use Instagram to customize my own fantasy pins?

Yes! Many Instagram pin makers offer custom design options. Partnering with experienced manufacturers like HIPINS allows you to bring your personal vision to life with professional quality. Customizing designs directly through Instagram contacts makes it easy for fans to turn their ideas into collectible artwork.

Pin Trading: A Complete Guide to Starting and Maximizing Your Collection

Pin trading has captivated enthusiasts worldwide, drawing them to its fun, creativity, and sense of community. Whether at a bustling event or online, collectors seek pins that tell a story, reflect personal interests, or commemorate special moments. With roots in early 20th-century events like the Olympics and theme parks, pin trading has become a vibrant marketplace with endless styles and themes. This guide will help you start and maximize the value of your collection, making your pins even more desirable in the community.

Pin trading 4

Getting Started with Pin Trading

Starting your collection can be as simple as choosing a theme you’re passionate about. Popular categories include animals, pop culture, symbols, and unique abstract designs. Many collectors begin by purchasing a few pins from online marketplaces or local events. Joining local or online pin trading groups allows you to meet other enthusiasts and opens doors to exclusive exchanges and rare finds.

Boosting Your Pin’s “Trading Power”

Certain factors can increase your pins’ desirability and trading value in the community:

  • Distinctive Design and Quality: Pins with unique shapes, vibrant colors, and intricate details stand out. High-quality craftsmanship and special finishes, like soft enamel or hard enamel, add appeal.
  • Limited Edition and Rarity: Limited-run pins, artist collaborations, or rare designs hold higher value due to their exclusivity. Collectors are often drawn to pins with special effects like glow-in-the-dark or glitter finishes.
  • Story and Meaning: Pins associated with memorable events, limited releases, or personal milestones have added sentimental value, enhancing their trading power. Sharing a pin’s background—where it was obtained or what it represents—often boosts interest.
  • Condition and Packaging: Mint-condition pins with intact backings or original packaging retain premium appeal. Displaying pins in cases or on boards also helps keep them in pristine condition.
  • Customization Options: Collectors enjoy pins that reflect their unique style. Customizable elements like engraving or color options add a sense of exclusivity and personal connection.

Types of Collectible Pins

Here are some popular pin styles to consider as you build your collection:

For broader insights, explore this WikiHow guide on pin collecting and The Spruce Crafts article on collectible pins.


FAQs About Pin Trading

  1. How do I find limited-edition or exclusive pins to boost my collection?
    Limited-edition pins are often available at events (theme parks, conventions, concerts), through artist collaborations, or on resale platforms like eBay, Etsy, and pin collector forums. Online communities and social media groups are also great for networking and finding rare pins.
  2. Where can I trade pins and meet other collectors?
    Pin trading events, online platforms like Etsy and eBay, and social media groups are great places to trade and connect. Dedicated forums offer a space to discuss trends, trade, and share insights into rare finds.
  3. What’s the best way to store and display my collection to keep pins in excellent condition?
    Use display boards, shadow boxes, or pin binders with foam pages to protect and organize your pins. When traveling to events, consider padded cases or protective pouches. Regular care, like cleaning and proper storage, helps maintain their value and appearance.

Pin trading is more than a hobby; it’s a way to express interests, commemorate experiences, and connect with a global community. Enjoy building your collection!

How Factory-Made Pins Help Your Brand Shine Above the Rest

In today’s competitive marketplace, branding is essential for standing out. While many companies turn to digital marketing and large-scale promotions, the power of small yet impactful items like custom pins is often underestimated. Factory-made pins are an affordable, customizable, and creative tool that can elevate your brand’s image in remarkable ways. Let’s explore why factory-made pins are a smart choice for any brand looking to make an impact.

3D hard eanmel frame
3D Frame Hard ENamel

1. High Quality, Guaranteed

Factory-made pins undergo rigorous quality checks that ensure consistency and durability. With precise manufacturing standards, these pins are made to last, providing a product that reflects well on your brand. High-quality pins are less likely to break, tarnish, or lose their color, meaning customers will enjoy them for longer — and in turn, your brand gets extended visibility.

2. Creative Customization Options

One of the biggest advantages of factory-made pins is the extensive range of customization. From vibrant colors and metallic finishes to unique shapes and engravings, factories offer specialized techniques that bring your brand’s vision to life. With professional designers and production experts, you can create pins that capture your brand’s aesthetic, whether it’s sleek and minimal or bold and colorful.

3. Brand Recognition & Loyalty

Custom pins aren’t just decorative; they’re a means of connecting with your audience. Branded pins can be given out as part of promotional campaigns, employee recognition, or customer appreciation initiatives. When customers and employees wear your pins, they’re subtly endorsing your brand, creating a ripple effect of recognition and trust. These small accessories act as a silent yet powerful ambassador for your brand.

4. Cost-Effective Marketing Tool

Compared to large advertising campaigns, factory-made pins are a cost-effective choice that still packs a punch. Their affordability makes them accessible for businesses of all sizes, allowing you to create a unique marketing piece without breaking the bank. With bulk production options, you can distribute pins widely and maximize your brand’s reach within budget.

5. Versatile and Memorable

Pins are versatile and can be worn or displayed in many settings — on jackets, bags, hats, or as part of a collection. They’re memorable, often cherished as keepsakes or collectible items, and they’re an ideal way to create brand impressions in both personal and professional environments. Unlike other marketing materials, pins are less likely to be discarded, providing a lasting reminder of your brand.

6. An Eco-Friendly Option

Many pin manufacturers are now offering sustainable materials and eco-friendly production methods. Choosing to work with a factory that focuses on eco-conscious practices not only enhances your brand’s image but also resonates with customers who value sustainability. This alignment can deepen customer loyalty, helping your brand to connect on a deeper level.

Conclusion

Factory-made pins are a small investment with big rewards. They help your brand stand out through quality, customization, and lasting visibility. By choosing factory-made pins, you’re choosing an effective, memorable, and impactful branding tool that resonates with customers and strengthens brand loyalty. For businesses looking to shine, factory-made pins are a creative and meaningful way to make a lasting impression.

Soft Enamel vs. Soft Enamel with Epoxy Coating

When designing custom lapel pins, you may wonder whether to choose soft enamel or soft enamel with epoxy coating. Both options offer unique benefits, depending on your pin’s intended use and desired aesthetic. Let’s explore the differences to help you make an informed decision.

soft enamel with epoxy coating

What Are Soft Enamel Pins?

Soft enamel pins are widely popular for their raised metal edges and recessed enamel fill, giving them a vibrant and textured appearance. The raised metal lines create a 3D effect, making the design stand out. These pins are highly customizable and perfect for promotional items, collectible pins, or event giveaways. Soft enamel pins also tend to be more affordable and are an excellent option for detailed designs.

Benefits of Epoxy Coating

Adding an epoxy coating to soft enamel pins creates a smooth, glossy surface that not only enhances the shine but also protects the design from scratches, fading, and general wear and tear. The epoxy layer adds durability, making these pins ideal for frequent handling or outdoor use. However, one potential drawback is that the coating can slightly soften the crisp details of the design.

Which Option Is Right for You?

  • Soft enamel pins are best for designs where you want to maintain a tactile, textured finish with crisp, raised metal details. They are perfect for collectibles or pins that won’t experience heavy wear.
  • Epoxy-coated soft enamel pins are better suited for high-durability needs, such as pins worn regularly on uniforms or accessories. The coating provides extra protection but slightly smooths out the texture of the pin.

In conclusion, soft enamel is ideal for intricate designs and tactile appeal, while epoxy-coated soft enamel offers superior durability and a sleek, smooth finish for pins that will endure more rugged conditions.

Meta Description: Discover the differences between soft enamel and epoxy-coated soft enamel lapel pins. Learn which option offers better durability, protection, and design detail for your needs.

How Gemstones Enhance Custom Lapel Pins

With the rising popularity of personalized accessories, gemstones have become a striking addition to custom lapel pins, especially when combined with hard enamel and soft enamel techniques. These two enamel styles, when accentuated by gemstones, not only amplify the lapel pins’ visual appeal but also elevate the luxury experience for the wearer.

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gemstone

The Role of Gemstones in Lapel Pin Design

Gemstones are prized for their natural beauty and rare luster. Popular gemstones in custom lapel pins include diamonds, sapphires, emeralds, and rubies. Each gemstone conveys a distinct style and sentiment, with diamonds symbolizing eternity, sapphires representing wisdom, and emeralds exuding a sense of nature and vitality. Designers carefully match gemstones with metal backings, creating a multidimensional, vibrant look that shines when worn.

Gemstones
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Gemstones in Hard Enamel Pins

Hard enamel is a high-temperature firing technique that creates a smooth, flat surface with excellent durability. When gemstones are incorporated into hard enamel lapel pins, they add an enduring luster and a polished look that shines in various lighting conditions. Gemstones like diamonds, sapphires, and emeralds paired with hard enamel enhance the pin’s refined and elegant character, making it ideal for formal settings and luxury events.

Gemstone Embellishments in Soft Enamel Pins

In contrast, soft enamel creates a slightly textured surface that emphasizes depth and dimensionality. Gemstones embedded in soft enamel pins create rich variations in light and color, enhancing the gemstone’s tonal qualities. The combination of soft enamel with colorful gemstones, such as rubies or amethysts, is perfect for designs that highlight unique personal style, suited for everyday wear or creative events.

Differences Between Hard Enamel and Soft Enamel

The main distinction between hard enamel and soft enamel lies in texture and visual effect. Hard enamel’s smooth surface is well-suited to pairing with high-hardness gemstones like diamonds and sapphires, ensuring long-lasting shine. Soft enamel, with its textured finish, is ideal for combining with vibrant gemstones, adding layers of visual depth. Additionally, hard enamel offers more resistance to wear, while soft enamel is often preferred for artistic and unique designs.

Maintaining Gemstones and Enamel

Whether hard or soft enamel, gemstone-adorned lapel pins require careful maintenance. To keep both the enamel and gemstones looking their best, avoid exposure to chemicals and clean regularly. When storing, keep the pins separate from other accessories to prevent scratching, preserving the gemstone’s brilliance and the enamel’s sheen.

The fusion of gemstones with enamel techniques offers a diverse range of styles and luxurious qualities in custom lapel pins. Whether choosing the elegance and durability of hard enamel or the individuality and texture of soft enamel, gemstone accents provide custom lapel pins with unmatched charm.

The Role of Cutouts in Pin Making: A Creative and Functional Touch

The Importance of Cutouts in Custom Lapel Pins

Custom lapel pins have long been a popular way to express personal identity, commemorate events, or enhance brand recognition. While traditional round or rectangular pins are still widely used, cutouts in pin making add a creative and functional dimension that sets these products apart. In this article, we’ll explore how cutouts are used in pin design, their advantages, and why they have become a key feature in modern pin manufacturing.

hard enamel with cutouts
hard enamel with cutouts
soft enamel with cutouts

What Are Cutouts in Pin Making?

cutouts

A cutout refers to any portion of a pin’s design where metal is removed to create an empty space or a non-standard shape. These cutouts can be as simple as geometric holes or as intricate as complex, custom shapes that reflect a brand logo, symbol, or specific design. Using advanced laser cutting and stamping techniques, manufacturers can create highly detailed and customized pins with cutouts, pushing the boundaries of traditional pin shapes.

Advantages of Cutouts in Pin Design

1. Enhanced Aesthetic Appeal

Cutouts immediately elevate a pin’s visual appeal. By creating empty spaces within the design, cutouts introduce a sense of depth and intricacy that draws attention to the product. This can be especially effective for promotional or collectible pins, where unique designs are essential to standing out.

2. Customization for Brand Identity

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For brands, cutouts provide an opportunity to create custom shapes that mirror logos or mascots. Instead of relying on simple, pre-made shapes, businesses can design pins that truly represent their identity, making cutouts an essential tool in branding through custom pins.

3. Versatility in Application

Pins with cutouts can be used across various industries, from fashion accessories to corporate giveaways. The versatility of cutout pins makes them suitable for casual and formal applications alike, adapting to the specific needs of each project.

Types of Cutouts in Pin Making

The technique used to create cutouts can vary depending on the complexity of the design and the materials involved. Here are some common types of cutouts used in pin manufacturing:

Simple Geometric Cutouts

These are the most basic types of cutouts, often used in lapel pins, where a simple geometric shape such as a circle or square is cut out from the design. They’re easy to produce and add a modern touch to the overall look.

Custom Shaped Cutouts

These involve intricate designs where the cutout follows the contours of a specific shape, such as an animal, letter, or logo. This technique is highly customizable and can give the pin a more personalized feel.

Multi-level Cutouts

Multi-level cutouts involve various layers of metal being cut at different depths to give the pin a three-dimensional effect. This method is ideal for adding texture and depth to the design, making the pin stand out even more.

The Manufacturing Process of Cutout Pins

The manufacturing process for cutout pins begins with a design blueprint, typically created using graphic design software. From there, the design is transferred onto the pin material, which is often metal, through methods like laser cutting or die stamping. The cutout portions are removed, and the pin is shaped accordingly. Afterward, finishing touches such as coloring, polishing, and attachment mechanisms (e.g., butterfly clutch or magnetic backings) are added​.