Skip to content
In today’s competitive business landscape, custom enamel pins are powerful branding tools that provide measurable value.
Whether you’re looking to recognize top employees, express appreciation to loyal clients, or enhance your brand’s visibility at events, enamel pins custom solutions offer an impactful option.
But one key decision often confuses businesses:
Should you choose hard enamel pins or soft enamel pins?
This guide breaks down the differences, use cases, and design tips—so your company can choose with confidence.
What Are Enamel Pins?
An enamel pin is a small, customizable metal badge filled with colorful enamel. Companies can choose size, shape, finish, and plating, making them versatile for recognition programs, promotions, or client gifts.
Popular types include:
- Soft enamel lapel pins → textured, colorful, and affordable.
- Hard enamel lapel pins → smooth, polished, and premium-looking.
How Are Enamel Pins Made?
The production steps are similar, but the finish differs:
- Hard Enamel Pins → baked at high heat, then polished flat for a glossy, jewelry-like surface.
- Soft Enamel Pins → air-dried, leaving raised borders and recessed enamel for a textured effect.
👉 Pin backs also matter. Businesses can choose enamel pin backs like butterfly clutches, rubber clutches, or magnets for secure wear.
Why Businesses Use Enamel Pins
Enamel pins are more than decorative—they’re business assets:
📈 Brand Visibility – Showcase your logo at trade shows, product launches, and marketing campaigns.
🏅 Employee Recognition – Celebrate years of service or achievements with custom hard enamel pins.
🎁 Corporate Gifts – Strengthen client relationships with polished, professional pins.
🏆 Fundraising & Awareness – Nonprofits often distribute soft enamel pins to boost visibility and raise support.
💡 Case Example: A retail chain launched limited-edition custom soft enamel pins during the holiday season. The pins sold out in two weeks, driving both sales and brand awareness.
What is a hard enamel pin？
Process
Created by baking enamel at high heat and polishing it flush with the metal, producing a smooth, glossy surface.
Advantages for Businesses
🔒 Durability – Scratch-resistant and long-lasting.
✨ Professional Appearance – Conveys prestige and high value.
🎨 Color Stability – Colors retain vibrancy over time.
Drawbacks
💰 Higher production cost per unit.
⚠️ Fine details may blur after polishing.
Best Uses
- Financial institutions → hard enamel lapel pins for long-service awards.
- Law firms → custom hard enamel pins as premium client loyalty gifts.
Design Tips
✔ Use bold, clean logos.
✔ Stick to solid brand colors.
✔ Pair with gold or silver plating for a luxury feel.
What is a soft enamel pin？
Process
Air-dried enamel fills recessed areas, leaving raised metal borders for texture and depth.
Advantages for Businesses
💵 Cost-Effective – Budget-friendly, great for bulk orders.
🎨 Creative Freedom – Allows intricate, colorful artwork.
🌟 Approachable Style – Fun and engaging look.
Drawbacks
⚠️ More prone to scratches.
🎯 Informal style, not ideal for executive recognition.
Best Uses
- Retail chains → seasonal soft enamel lapel pins for promotions.
- Nonprofits → soft enamel pins at charity events for awareness.
Design Tips
✔ Bold outlines and bright colors work best.
✔ Add epoxy coating for protection.
✔ Experiment with creative shapes or seasonal themes.
What's the difference between hard and soft enamel pins?
| Feature | Hard Enamel Pins | Soft Enamel Pins | Business Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Smooth, polished, jewelry-like finish | Textured surface with raised borders | Prestige vs Creativity |
| Durability | Scratch-resistant, long-lasting | Durable but more prone to scratches | Longevity vs Flexibility |
| Cost | Higher per-unit price | Budget-friendly, ideal for bulk orders | Premium look vs Cost efficiency |
| Best For | Recognition awards, executive gifts | Event giveaways, marketing campaigns | Loyalty vs Brand Reach |
| Design Fit | Clean logos, solid colors | Detailed, colorful artwork | Professional Image vs Creative Engagement |
Which is better, soft or hard enamel pins?
Key Takeaway & Selection Guide
Your choice between hard enamel pins and soft enamel pins depends on three core factors: purpose, budget, and design.
Hard Enamel Pins = Loyalty and Recognition
Ideal for high-value branding, executive gifts, and recognition programs. Best for bold logos and solid colors, offering a professional image—though at a higher cost per unit.
Soft Enamel Pins = Creativity and Affordability
Perfect for large-scale giveaways, events, and promotional campaigns, they allow detailed and colorful designs. While less scratch-resistant and more informal, they are ideal for volume distribution and engaging broader audiences.
💡 Remember: Your pin choice reflects your brand. Choose hard enamel for a premium impression and soft enamel for wide-reaching impact.
FAQ
Q: How long does production take?
A: Timelines vary by service method:
- Rush Orders → 5–7 days total (production + shipping).
- Normal Orders → 7–15 days total.
Q: Can I use enamel pins for promotions?
A: Yes, custom enamel pins are perfect for promotions. Soft enamel pins work well for events, while hard enamel pins are best for high-value giveaways.
Q: Can I get custom-shaped enamel pins?
A: Yes, both hard enamel pins and soft enamel pins can be made in custom shapes to match your design.
Q: Are there eco-friendly enamel pins?
A: Yes, you can order eco-friendly enamel pins made from recycled materials or sustainable practices.
Conclusion
Both hard enamel pins and soft enamel pins are powerful branding tools.
Hard enamel = polished, durable, and perfect for recognition and premium gifts.
Soft enamel = colorful, versatile, and budget-friendly for campaigns and events.
The best choice depends on your company’s goals, budget, and timeline.
By aligning enamel type with your branding strategy, you create pins that not only look great but also leave a lasting impression.
Ready to elevate your branding?
Whether you need custom soft enamel pins for campaigns or custom hard enamel pins for executive awards, Yearpins® delivers quality, fast turnaround, and bulk discounts.
✨Related Articles✨
Unique Lapel Pin Ideas for Personalized Gifts and Mementos
What to do with enamel pins
How to Create a Unique Custom Lapel Pin: A Step-by-Step Guide
How to Create Enamel Pins
Soft Enamel VS Hard Enamel
The secret of badge powdering process is here