Overview
This case study details the production process of a high-quality kirishima pin featuring an anime-style character with a bold red-haired design and intricate details. The goal was to create a visually striking and durable pin suitable for collectors and fans.
The client envisioned a premium kirishima pin with vibrant colors, sharp printed details, and special effects such as glitter and glow-in-the-dark elements. To meet these expectations, we employed hard enamel techniques, precision printing, and high-quality metal plating to enhance the final product’s appeal and longevity.
Pin Design Details
The client provided detailed specifications for the kirishima pin, including:
- Material: Thick zinc alloy metal for enhanced durability
- Plating Options: Two variations – gold metal and black nickel
- Manufacturing Process: Hard enamel with additional printed details
- Size: Each design: approximately 56.276mm (2.1 inches)
- Backside Features: Custom brand backstamp for authenticity
- Attachments: Two rubber clutches for secure fastening
- Packaging: Each pin to be individually packed with PVC and bubble wrap to prevent damage
aAdditionally, the client requested pearl, glitter and glow-in-the-dark effects on certain parts of the design to create a more dynamic and visually appealing final product.
Production Workflow
1. Digital Artwork & Color Selection
The project began with the client’s submission of a highly detailed digital illustration. The character design featured vibrant reds, blacks, and yellows, along with tattoo details and printed chain elements, making precision in color selection crucial.
Key colors included:
- Base Enamel Colors: Deep reds, dark blacks, and bright yellow-green accents
- Metallic Finishes: Gold plating for a luxurious shine and black nickel for a sleek, modern look
- Special Effects:
- Glitter Enamel: Used for hair highlights and specific accessories
- Glow-in-the-Dark: Applied to selected areas for an enhanced nighttime effect
- Pearl
2. Mold Creation
A custom 2.0mm-thick mold was designed to ensure crisp lines and well-defined edges. The mold creation process was crucial in capturing the character’s sharp hair spikes and facial expressions.
3. Hard Enamel Filling & Baking
The enamel filling process involved carefully applying each color into its designated area, ensuring a smooth and even surface. These kirishima pins were then baked at high temperatures to solidify the enamel, creating a hardened, polished effect.
4. Wet Grinding
This process can make lines on the kirishima pins visible.
5. Polishing
Each pin underwent a rigorous polishing process to remove excess metal burrs and ensure a smooth, glossy finish.
6. Plating
Two plating options were prepared:
- Gold Metal Variant – This gave the kirishima pin a premium and high-end look, complementing the vibrant enamel colors.
- Black Nickel Variant – This offered a sleek, dark aesthetic, ideal for a modern, edgy feel.
7. Printing & UV Testing
Due to the complexity of the facial tattoo, chain details, and shading effects, screen printing was utilized. A test print was conducted to verify:
- Text clarity – The “Riot” tattoo needed to remain legible at a small scale.
- Chain detailing – Ensuring the metallic silver print appeared realistic.
- Color accuracy – Matching printed shades to the enamel base.
Once approved, printing was applied to the batch, adding the fine details that couldn’t be achieved with enamel filling alone.
8. Quality Control
Quality control inspections were conducted to check:
- Even enamel distribution
- No air bubbles or color bleeding
- Secure and well-attached pinbacks
Any pins failing the quality check were remade to maintain high production standards.
Client Interaction & Adjustments
Throughout the production process, we maintained close communication with the client to ensure their vision was fully realized. Key areas of feedback and adjustments included:
✅ Tattoo Detail – The client wanted the forehead tattoo to be sharp and well-defined, so we fine-tuned the print density for better readability.
✅ Metal Finish Selection – The gold and black nickel variants were compared, and small adjustments were made to enhance the contrast between the plating and enamel colors.
✅ Glitter Application – The initial glitter effect was adjusted to achieve the perfect balance between sparkle and clarity.
After confirming these modifications, full-scale production proceeded smoothly.
Post-Production & Packaging
Once all kirishima pins passed final inspections, each one was individually packed to prevent scratching during shipping. The packaging included:
- PVC bag protection
- Bubble wrap cushioning
- Client-branded packaging for a professional touch
The secure packaging ensured the pins arrived in perfect condition, ready for distribution and sales.
Client Feedback & Final Impressions
Upon receiving the finished product, the client expressed high satisfaction with the craftsmanship and attention to detail. Their direct feedback included:
📌 “The final enamel pins turned out even better than expected! The printing quality is incredibly sharp, and the metal finish gives the design a premium feel. Our fans love them!”
📌 “The glow-in-the-dark and glitter effects are a great touch—they make the pin stand out!”
The overwhelmingly positive response from fans and collectors reinforced the success of the design and production process.
Conclusion
This case demonstrates our expertise in producing premium enamel pins with intricate designs, special effects, and high-quality finishes. By employing hard enamel techniques, screen printing, and precision metal plating, we created a product that met and exceeded client expectations.
Key Takeaways:
✅ Attention to Detail – From mold creation to polishing, every step ensured a flawless final product.
✅ Custom Printing Techniques – Screen printing allowed for details.
✅ Special Effects Integration – Pearl, glitter and glow-in-the-dark elements were carefully applied for maximum visual impact.
✅ Client Collaboration – Ongoing communication allowed for real-time adjustments and quality improvements.
By focusing on precision, quality, and customer satisfaction, we delivered a standout enamel pin that continues to impress collectors and fans alike.
📌 Looking to create your own high-quality enamel pins? Contact us today to bring your custom designs to life!