Custom lapel pins have become a powerful tool for branding, marketing, and personal expression. Whether used for corporate recognition, promotional merchandise, or fashion accessories, pins are versatile, affordable, and highly customizable. However, one crucial decision brand’s face is choosing between die-struck lapel pins and enamel pins.
Each pin type offers unique aesthetics, durability, and pricing, making it essential to select the right style based on brand identity, intended use, and budget. This article provides an in-depth comparison between die-struck and enamel pins, helping businesses, marketers, and designers make an informed choice.
What Are Die-Struck Pins?
Die-struck pins are crafted by stamping a design onto a metal surface using a custom mold (die). The impression creates a raised and recessed design without any added colors, resulting in a classic, all-metal look.
The process involves:
- Design Engraving: A mold is created with the design etched into it.
- Metal Stamping: The mold stamps the design onto a brass, copper, or iron sheet.
- Cutting & Shaping: The pin shape is cut out.
- Polishing & Finishing: The metal is polished and can be plated with gold, silver, or antique finishes for a refined look.
Material & Finish Options
Die-struck pins are typically made from brass, copper, or iron and offer various finishes, including:
✔️ Polished (shiny and elegant)
✔️ Antique (vintage or aged effect)
✔️ Matte (subtle, non-reflective look)
Best Use Cases
Die-struck lapel pins are ideal for:
- Corporate branding (e.g., executive gifts, event giveaways)
- Commemorative awards (e.g., service recognition, military pins)
- High-end or luxury branding
- Minimalist and classic designs
Pros & Cons of Die-Struck Pins
✅ Elegant and professional look – Ideal for formal branding.
✅ Durable and long-lasting – Made entirely of metal with no risk of paint chipping.
✅ Timeless appeal – A great choice for classic branding.
❌ Limited customization – No colors, only metal tones and textures.
❌ Slightly higher cost – Can be more expensive due to high-quality materials.
What Are Enamel Pins? (Soft vs. Hard)
Enamel pins feature colored enamel paint filled into recessed areas of a stamped metal pin. The design is outlined in raised metal, allowing color to be added between the metal borders.
Enamel pins come in two types: soft enamel lapel pin and hard enamel lapel pin.
The production process includes:
- Metal Stamping: A metal sheet is stamped with the design.
- Cutting & Plating: The pin is cut and plated (gold, silver, or custom finishes).
- Color Filling: Enamel paint is added to recessed areas.
- Baking & Polishing: The pin is baked for durability and polished to create a smooth or textured effect.
Soft Enamel vs. Hard Enamel
| Feature | Soft Enamel Pins | Hard Enamel Pins |
| Texture | Slightly raised metal borders, textured feel | Smooth, polished surface |
| Durability | More prone to chipping, can have an epoxy coating for protection | Highly durable, smooth finish prevents chipping |
| Finish | Glossy but textured | Flat, high-end finish |
| Customization | Allows for special effects like glitter and glow-in-the-dark | Limited effects but has a sleek, professional look |
| Cost | More affordable | Slightly higher due to extra polishing steps |
Material & Color Options
Enamel pins are highly customizable with:
✔️ A wide range of colors (Pantone matching available)
✔️ Glitter, glow-in-the-dark, and epoxy coatings
✔️ Custom shapes, cut-outs, and layered designs
Best Use Cases
Enamel pins work well for:
- Promotional merchandise (e.g., giveaways, brand collaborations)
- Fashion accessories (e.g., apparel brands, artist collections)
- Pop culture and fandom collectibles
- Creative, colorful, and artistic branding
Pros & Cons of Enamel Pins
✅ Highly customizable – Wide color choices and special effects.
✅ Great for branding & marketing – Eye-catching and trendy.
✅ More affordable – Ideal for bulk production.
❌ Colors may fade or chip over time – Hard enamel is more durable but still vulnerable.
❌ Less formal than die-struck pins – More playful and vibrant.
Die-Struck vs. Enamel Pins: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Die-Struck Pins | Enamel Pins (Soft & Hard) |
| Look & Feel | Elegant, metallic, textured | Colorful, vibrant, smooth (hard) or textured (soft) |
| Durability | Extremely durable, no risk of chipping | Can chip or fade over time |
| Customization | Limited to metal finishes | Highly customizable with colors, textures, and effects |
| Best for | Corporate branding, awards, classic designs | Merch, promotions, fashion, creative branding |
| Price | Slightly higher | More affordable |
How to Choose the Right Pin for Your Brand
When deciding between die-struck vs. enamel pins, consider these key factors:
1. Brand Identity & Aesthetic
- Luxury, corporate, or formal brands? → Go with die-struck for a sophisticated, timeless look.
- Creative, fun, or trendy brands? → Enamel pins offer more visual impact and customization.
2. Intended Use
- Corporate recognition or awards? → Die-struck pins feel prestigious and professional.
- Merch for resale or promotional giveaways? → Enamel pins are colorful, fun, and cost-effective.
3. Budget Considerations
- Limited budget? → Soft enamel pins are the most cost-effective option.
- Premium feel needed? → Hard enamel or die-struck pins offer a more polished look.
4. Durability & Longevity
- Need a pin that lasts forever? → Die-struck is the best choice for durability.
- Okay with some wear over time? → Enamel pins work great for trendy, short-term promotions.
Conclusion
Choosing between die-struck and enamel pins depends on your brand’s goals, design preferences, and budget. If you’re looking for a classic, professional, and durable pin, die-struck is the way to go. However, if you need a colorful, creative, and affordable option for branding, soft or hard enamel pins are the best fit.
