Enamel Pin Production Glossary

When creating custom enamel pins, you’ll come across some production terms that may feel a bit confusing at first. Don’t worry—we’ve broken them down so you can feel confident when working on your next project.

⭐ Soft Enamel vs. Hard Enamel – Know the Difference

Soft enamel and hard enamel are two of the most common pin styles, and the main difference comes down to texture and finish.

• Soft Enamel: The colored enamel sits slightly recessed below the raised metal lines, creating a textured feel. It’s great for vibrant colors and affordable pricing.

• Hard Enamel: The enamel is polished flat so the surface is smooth and even with the metal lines. Hard enamel pins have a sleek, jewelry-like finish and are more durable.

🔨 Die Struck – A No-Color, Metal-Only Style

Die struck pins skip enamel colors altogether. Instead, they rely on raised and recessed metal to create the design. This technique works beautifully for logos, text, or artwork where contrast comes from polished vs. sandblasted finishes. Die struck pins have a timeless, professional look.

⚙️ Plating – The Metal Finish Applied to Your Pin

Plating refers to the metal coating that gives your pin its shine and character. Common options include gold, silver, black nickel, copper, rose gold, and antique finishes. The plating you choose will frame your design and dramatically influence the overall look of your pin.

💰 Mold Fee – The One-Time Cost to Create Your Custom Mold

Every custom pin requires a mold—a stamp-like tool used to press your design into the base metal. The mold fee is a one-time charge to produce this tool. Once your mold is made, it can usually be reused for future reorders of the same design, saving you money in the long run.

✅ Understanding these key terms makes the production process a whole lot smoother. Whether you’re designing your first pin or planning a new collection, knowing the basics helps you make the right choices for your project.