Soft Enamel Pins

Cost-Effective with Vibrant Colors

Soft Enamel Pins – Vibrant Colors & Textured Detail

Soft enamel pins are the most popular and versatile option in the enamel pin world. Known for their affordable cost, bold colors, and textured finish, they’re a favorite for artists, brands, and collectors looking for both style and value.

Whether you want simple logo pins or creative collectibles, this guide covers all the essential specs, design rules, and production details for soft enamel pins.

⭐ What Are Soft Enamel Pins?

Soft enamel pins are made by stamping your design into a metal base, then filling recessed areas with enamel paint. Unlike hard enamel pins, the enamel sits slightly lower than the raised metal lines, creating a textured, 3D look.

Finish: Textured surface with raised metal outlines
Durability: 5–7 years under normal use
Thickness: Standard 1.2 mm – 1.6 mm (2.0 mm available)
Color Options: Solid Pantone-matched colors (up to 12 colors)
Plating Choices: Gold, Silver, Black Nickel, Antique finishes
Popular Uses: Artist merch, events, giveaways, collectibles

🔑 Key Features of Soft Enamel Pins

Textured surface – recessed enamel vs. raised metal lines
Bright, vibrant colors – enamel appears more vivid than hard enamel
Budget-friendly – typically 15–20% cheaper than hard enamel
Flexible style – allows finer lines and more design freedom

📊 Soft Enamel vs. Hard Enamel – Data Comparison

Feature	Soft Enamel Pins	Hard Enamel Pins
Surface Texture	Recessed enamel (0.2–0.3 mm depth)	Smooth, polished, flush surface
Durability	5–7 years	8–10 years
Color Options	Up to 12 Pantone colors	Up to 10 Pantone colors
Line Thickness	Min. 0.15 mm (can be slightly finer)	Min. 0.2 mm (requires thicker lines)
Cost per 100 pcs (1")	$180–$240 (depending on plating)	$220–$280
Best Use	Artist runs, everyday merch, events	Luxury branding, premium collectibles

📐 Soft Enamel Design Guidelines (with Data)

1. Line Thickness

Minimum: 0.15 mm (slightly finer than hard enamel possible)
Recommended: 0.2–0.25 mm for safety

2. Color Areas

Enamel sits 0.2–0.3 mm below the raised metal
Max: 12 colors per pin
Flat colors only (no gradients/shadows)

3. Pin Sizes

Small pins: 0.75” (19 mm) – logos, icons
Standard pins: 1.25”–1.5” (32–38 mm) – most popular
Large pins: 2” (50 mm) – great for detail and collectibles

4. Thickness Options

Standard: 1.2 mm – 1.6 mm
Deluxe pins: 2.0 mm for heavier feel

5. Plating Options

Shiny Gold, Silver, Black Nickel
Antique finishes (Bronze, Copper, Silver)
Rose Gold, Dyed Black

6. Back Attachments

Butterfly clutch (standard)
Rubber clutch (comfort and security)
Deluxe clutch (locking, premium)
Magnetic back or safety pin (special uses)

🛠️ Production Process – with Timeline

Step	Description	Time Required
Mold Making	Custom mold engraved from design	2–3 days
Die-Striking	Pin shape & design pressed in metal	1 day
Plating	Base metal plated (gold, silver, etc.)	1 day
Enamel Filling	Liquid enamel filled into recessed areas	1–2 days
Baking	Enamel hardened & set	1 day
QC & Assembly	Backings attached, polished, inspected	1–2 days
Packing & Shipping	Packed for delivery	3–7 days

⏱ Total production time: 12–15 working days (2–3 weeks).

Care Tips

Wipe gently with a soft cloth
Avoid bending pins
Store separately to prevent scratches

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What makes soft enamel pins different from hard enamel?
A: Soft enamel has recessed enamel areas, giving a textured, 3D-like appearance.

Q2: Are soft enamel pins cheaper than hard enamel?
A: Yes, they are more affordable due to a simpler finishing process.

Q3: How many colors can I include in my soft enamel pin?
A: Up to 9 PMS colors are possible, but 7 or fewer is recommended.

Q4: Can I add a protective coating?
A: Yes, epoxy can be added to create a smooth finish and protect the enamel.

Q5: Do soft enamel pins work well for detailed artwork?
A: Yes, but for extremely fine details or gradients, printed pins are better.

Q6: What plating options are available?
A: Gold, silver, black nickel, copper, antique finishes, and more.

Q7: What is the standard size range?
A: Most designs fall between 0.75” and 1.25”.

Q8: What is the production time for soft enamel pins?
A: About 10–14 business days, plus shipping.

Q9: Can I get different backings?
A: Yes, rubber clutch, magnet, or deluxe clutches are available.

Q10: Are soft enamel pins good for giveaways?
A: Absolutely — they are cost-effective and eye-catching, making them ideal for promotions.

👉 Ready to create your custom soft enamel pins?
Get a Free Quote Today

Use raised outlines to emphasize details – textured look enhances logos and icons.
Smallest text height: 1.2–1.5 mm for readability.
Keep color areas ≥ 0.6–0.8 mm to avoid enamel spilling.
Black nickel plating makes designs pop with bold outlines.
Consider adding glitter, glow-in-the-dark, or epoxy dome for extra effects.

Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ)

5 pcs per design (ideal for small batches).

Pricing (Approximate)

Average Costs (1.25” pin, 6 colors, nickel plating):
- 100 pcs → $180–$240
- 300 pcs → $480–$600
- 500 pcs → $750–$950
  (Exact price depends on size, plating, and add-ons.)

Turnaround Time

Production: 10–14 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.

👉 Get a Free Quote Now