Printed Pins

Full-Color, High-Detail

Printed Pins – Full-Color, High-Detail Custom Pins

Printed pins are the best choice when your design includes photographs, gradients, tiny details, or unlimited colors that can’t be achieved with traditional enamel pins. Instead of using enamel filling, your artwork is directly printed onto a metal baseβ€”allowing 100% accuracy and unlimited creativity.

If you need pins that look exactly like your digital artwork, printed pins are the perfect option.

⭐ What Are Printed Pins?

Unlike enamel pins, printed pins don’t require raised metal lines to separate colors. Your design is printed directly on a smooth metal surface, protected by a clear epoxy dome for durability.

  • Finish: Flat surface with clear coating (glossy epoxy)

  • Colors: Unlimited, including gradients and photo-quality images

  • Durability: 3–5 years with epoxy protection

  • Thickness: Standard 0.8 mm – 1.2 mm (lighter than enamel pins)

  • Material: Stainless steel, brass, or iron base

  • Best Use: Complex logos, photo pins, highly detailed illustrations

πŸ”‘ Key Features of Printed Pins

  • Unlimited Colors – full CMYK or Pantone printing

  • Photo-Realistic Designs – great for faces, detailed art, or shading

  • Fastest Production – no enamel filling or polishing required

  • Protective Epoxy Dome – prevents scratching and fading

  • Lightweight & Cost-Effective – cheaper for large runs

πŸ“Š Printed Pins vs. Enamel Pins – Data Comparison

Feature

Printed Pins

Soft/Hard Enamel Pins

Surface Texture

Flat, glossy (epoxy dome)

Textured (soft) / Smooth (hard)

Colors

Unlimited (gradients, photos possible)

Limited to 10–12 solid Pantone colors

Durability

3–5 years

5–10 years

Detail Level

Extremely fine (tiny text, images)

Limited by enamel & metal lines

Cost per 100 pcs (1")

$160–$220

$180–$280

Best Use

Logos, portraits, full-color designs

Collectibles, luxury branding

πŸ“ Printed Pin Design Guidelines

  1. Colors

    • Unlimited CMYK printing (photos, gradients, shadows allowed).

    • Pantone matching available for brand consistency.

  2. Detail Level

    • Tiny text β‰₯ 1 mm height remains legible.

    • No need for metal lines separating colors.

  3. Size Options

    • Small: 0.75” (19 mm) – logos and badges.

    • Standard: 1.25”–1.5” (32–38 mm) – most popular.

    • Large: 2” (50 mm) – great for detailed artwork.

  4. Thickness

    • Standard: 0.8 mm – 1.2 mm.

    • Optional: Epoxy dome adds ~0.3 mm to thickness.

  5. Back Options

    • Butterfly clutch

    • Rubber clutch

    • Magnetic back (for uniforms)

    • Safety pin style

πŸ› οΈ Production Process – Fast & Accurate

Step

Description

Time Required

Base Creation

Metal base cut into shape

1–2 days

Plating

Gold, Silver, Nickel, Black, etc.

1 day

Printing

CMYK or Pantone image applied

1 day

Epoxy Coating

Glossy dome applied for protection

1 day

QC & Assembly

Backings attached & checked

1–2 days

Packing & Shipping

Standard packaging + courier

3–7 days

⏱ Total production time: 8–12 working days (faster than enamel).

Care Tips

  • Clean gently with a dry cloth

  • Store in a pouch to avoid surface scratches

  • Avoid moisture exposure to maintain finish

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What are printed pins best for?
A: They’re perfect for photo-based designs, gradients, logos, and full-color artwork.

Q2: Do printed pins require a mold?
A: No, which makes them quicker and cheaper to produce.

Q3: Can printed pins include unlimited colors?
A: Yes, they use CMYK printing, so there’s no color limit.

Q4: Are printed pins durable?
A: Yes, especially when an epoxy dome is applied for protection.

Q5: What is the MOQ for printed pins?
A: 50 pcs per design.

Q6: How long does it take to produce printed pins?
A: About 7–10 business days, plus shipping.

Q7: Can printed pins have custom shapes?
A: Yes, they can be die-cut to match your design outline.

Q8: Do you recommend epoxy coating?
A: Yes, epoxy helps protect the print from scratches and wear.

Q9: Are printed pins more affordable than enamel pins?
A: Yes, since they don’t require a mold and support full-color printing.

Q10: Can printed pins be used for corporate branding?
A: Definitely β€” they are great for logos, photo-based designs, and promotional items.

πŸ‘‰ [Start Your Printed Pin Order Today]

  • Use 300 dpi artwork for the best print clarity.

  • If using text, keep font size β‰₯ 5 pt for readability.

  • Add an epoxy dome (recommended) for protection & gloss.

  • Consider custom-shaped die-cut bases for uniqueness.

  • Printed pins are excellent for short runs and fast turnarounds.

Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ)

  • 5 pcs per design (ideal for small batches).

Pricing (Approximate)

  • Average Costs (1.25” pin, full color, epoxy finish):

    • 100 pcs β†’ $160–$220

    • 300 pcs β†’ $420–$540

    • 500 pcs β†’ $700–$850
      (Exact price depends on size, plating, and add-ons.)

Turnaround Time

  • Production: 10–14 business days

  • Shipping: 3–7 days (express options available)

How to Order

  1. Get a Quote – Submit your design through our form.

  2. Approve Proof – We’ll send a digital mockup for confirmation.

  3. Payment – Secure checkout.

  4. Production & Delivery – Your custom pins delivered worldwide.

πŸ‘‰ Get a Free Quote Now