
Hard Enamel Pin
Premium Quality Option
Hard Enamel Pins – Premium Custom Pins with Precision
Hard enamel pins are the highest quality option in the enamel pin world. With their smooth finish, long-lasting durability, and elegant look, they’re the first choice for brands, artists, and collectors who want luxury pins.
Below is a complete technical and design guide with real specs, sizes, and options.
⭐ What Makes Hard Enamel Pins Special?
Material: Brass, zinc alloy, or iron (brass is preferred for fine details).
Finish: Smooth, polished surface – enamel flush with metal.
Durability: Lifespan of 5–10+ years with proper care.
Thickness: Standard 1.2 mm – 1.6 mm, can go up to 2 mm for larger pins.
Color Matching: Pantone Solid Coated guide (up to 10 colors per pin without extra cost).
Plating Options: Gold, Silver, Nickel, Black Nickel, Antique finishes.
📊 Hard Enamel vs. Soft Enamel – Data Comparison
Feature | Hard Enamel Pins | Soft Enamel Pins |
|---|---|---|
Surface Texture | Flat & polished (0 mm depth) | Recessed areas (0.2–0.3 mm depth) |
Durability | 8–10 years | 5–7 years |
Color Options | Solid Pantone, up to 10 colors | Solid Pantone, up to 12 colors |
Line Thickness | Min. 0.2 mm (recommended 0.3 mm) | Min. 0.15 mm (slightly finer possible) |
Cost per 100 pcs (1") | $220–$280 (depending on plating) | $180–$240 |
Best Use | Premium, collectible, luxury branding | Everyday merch, budget-friendly |
📐 Hard Enamel Design Guidelines (with Numbers)
Line Thickness
Minimum: 0.2 mm (any thinner may break during production).
Recommended: 0.3 mm or above for best clarity.
Color Areas
Each separated by a raised metal line.
Max: 10 solid colors per pin (extra charge for more).
No gradients or shadows allowed.
Pin Size
Small pins: 0.75” (19 mm) – simple logos or icons.
Medium pins: 1.25”–1.5” (32–38 mm) – most popular size range.
Large pins: 2” (50 mm) and above – for complex designs.
Pin Thickness
Standard: 1.2 mm – 1.6 mm.
Large or deluxe pins: 2.0 mm for durability.
Back Options
Butterfly clutch (most common)
Rubber clutch (comfortable, won’t snag clothes)
Deluxe clutch (metal locking, premium)
Magnet or safety pin (special requests)
Packaging
Standard: Polybag included.
Optional: Custom backer cards, velvet boxes, or tins.
🛠️ Production Process – with Timeframe
Step | Description | Time Required |
|---|---|---|
Mold Making | Custom mold created from your design | 2–3 days |
Die-Striking | Design stamped onto metal base | 1 day |
Plating | Gold/Silver/Nickel finish added | 1 day |
Enamel Filling | Liquid enamel carefully filled | 1–2 days |
Polishing | Smoothed until enamel is flush | 1 day |
Attachment & QC | Clutches added + quality check | 1–2 days |
Packing & Shipping | Standard packing + courier | 3–7 days |
⏱ Total production time: 12–15 working days (2–3 weeks average).
Care Tips for Hard Enamel Pins
Clean Gently: Wipe with a soft cloth; avoid abrasive cleaners.
Avoid Chemicals: Keep away from harsh cleaners, perfumes, or alcohol-based sprays.
Store Safely: Keep in a pin display case or soft pouch to prevent scratches.
Remove Before Washing: Don’t wear pins on clothing during laundry or dry cleaning.
Handle with Care: Even though durable, avoid dropping or bending to preserve plating.
FAQs – Hard Enamel Pins
Q1: What is the main difference between hard and soft enamel pins?
A: Hard enamel pins have a smooth, polished finish, while soft enamel pins have recessed enamel that gives a textured feel.
Q2: Are hard enamel pins more durable?
A: Yes, the enamel is baked and polished flat, making it highly resistant to scratches and fading.
Q3: How many colors can I use in a hard enamel pin design?
A: We recommend up to 7 PMS colors for the best results.
Q4: Can I use gradients in hard enamel pins?
A: No, gradients aren’t possible. Each area must be a solid PMS color.
Q5: What plating finishes are available?
A: Gold, silver, nickel, copper, antique finishes, and black nickel are popular options.
Q6: Can I add special effects like glitter or glow enamel?
A: Yes, glitter and glow enamel are available as optional upgrades.
Q7: What is the typical size for hard enamel pins?
A: Most range from 0.75”–1.25”, though larger designs up to 2” are possible.
Q8: What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ)?
A: 50 pcs per design.
Q9: How long does production take?
A: Around 10–14 business days, plus shipping.
Q10: Can you add my logo or text on the back?
A: Yes, backstamps with logos, text, or serial numbers are available.
👉 Ready to create your custom hard enamel pins?
Get a Free Quote Today
Keep letter height ≥ 1.5 mm for readability.
Smallest color area: ≥ 0.8 mm diameter (smaller areas may not fill properly).
Max pin size for bulk orders: 2.5” (64 mm) (larger pins = higher cost).
Consider using black nickel plating if your design has many dark outlines.
Add a custom back stamp (up to 0.5” area) for branding.
Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ)
5 pcs per design (ideal for small batches).
Pricing (Approximate)
Popular Quantities & Average Cost (1.25" pin, 6 colors, gold plating):
100 pcs – $250–$280 total
300 pcs – $600–$720 total
500 pcs – $900–$1,100 total
(Prices vary by size, plating, and quantity).
(Exact price depends on size, plating, and add-ons.)
Turnaround Time
Production: 14–20 business days
Shipping: 5–7 business days (express options available)
How to Order
Get a Quote – Submit your design through our form.
Approve Proof – We’ll send a digital mockup for confirmation.
Payment – Secure checkout.
Production & Delivery – Your custom pins delivered worldwide.
