Content Menu
● Preparing Your Design for Manufacturing
● Marketing and Selling Your Pins
>> Social Media
● Alternative Methods for Making Pins at Home
>> Resin Method
● FAQ
>> 1. How much does it cost to make enamel pins in the UK?
>> 2. What's the difference between soft and hard enamel pins?
>> 3. How long does it take to get enamel pins made in the UK?
>> 4. Can I make enamel pins at home?
>> 5. How do I protect my enamel pin designs from being copied?
Enamel pins have become increasingly popular in recent years, with many artists and designers creating their own unique collections. If you're based in the UK and interested in making your own enamel pins, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process, from design to manufacturing and beyond.
Before diving into the creation process, it's important to understand what enamel pins are. Enamel pins are small, decorative metal badges filled with colored enamel. They come in two main types:
1. Hard enamel pins: These have a smooth, polished surface where the enamel is level with the metal outlines.
2. Soft enamel pins: These have slightly recessed enamel areas with raised metal outlines.
The first step in creating your enamel pin is designing it. Here's how to approach this crucial phase:
Start by sketching out your ideas. Consider themes, styles, and concepts that resonate with you or your target audience. Remember, simpler designs often work best for enamel pins.
Once you have a solid concept, it's time to create your final artwork. You can use digital design software like Adobe Illustrator or Procreate, or even hand-draw your design and scan it.
Here's a video tutorial on designing enamel pins in Procreate:
Key points to remember when designing:
- Keep lines clean and simple
- Ensure each color area is fully enclosed by metal lines
- Avoid extremely fine details, as they may not translate well to the pin format
- Consider the size of your pin (typically 1-2 inches) when determining detail level
Select your colors carefully. Most manufacturers use Pantone colors, so it's a good idea to reference a Pantone color guide when making your selections. Remember, the more colors you use, the more expensive your pin will be to produce.
Once your design is complete, you need to prepare it for the manufacturer. This involves creating a detailed mock-up that includes:
- The pin design
- Size specifications
- Color codes (preferably Pantone)
- Metal finish (gold, silver, black nickel, etc.)
- Type of enamel (hard or soft)
- Any special features (glitter, glow-in-the-dark, etc.)
- Pin backing style
While many enamel pin manufacturers are based in China, there are options available in the UK. Here are a few to consider:
1. Made by Cooper
2. Zap Creative
3. Vograce UK
When choosing a manufacturer, consider factors such as:
- Minimum order quantity (MOQ)
- Price per pin
- Production time
- Quality of samples
- Communication and customer service
Once you've selected a manufacturer, it's time to place your order. Here's what the process typically involves:
1. Submit your design and specifications
2. Receive a quote
3. Approve the quote and pay a deposit
4. Review and approve the digital proof
5. Wait for production (usually 2-4 weeks)
6. Pay the remaining balance
7. Receive your pins!
When your pins arrive, carefully inspect them for any defects or issues. Check that:
- The colors match your specifications
- The enamel is evenly applied
- The metal finish is correct
- The pin backs are securely attached
If there are any problems, contact your manufacturer immediately to resolve the issue.
Now that you have your pins, it's time to sell them! Here are some strategies to consider:
Platforms like Etsy, eBay, and Not on the High Street are popular for selling enamel pins in the UK.
Consider setting up your own e-commerce site using platforms like Shopify or WooCommerce.
Use Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok to showcase your pins and connect with potential customers.
Attend local craft fairs and markets to sell your pins in person and network with other creators.
1. Start with a small batch to test the market
2. Engage with the enamel pin community on social media
3. Consider creating limited edition or seasonal pins
4. Package your pins attractively to enhance their appeal
5. Offer bundle deals or discounts for multiple purchases
Here's a video with more tips on selling enamel pins:
While professional manufacturing is the most common method for creating enamel pins, there are some DIY alternatives you can try at home:
This method involves printing your design on shrink plastic, cutting it out, and baking it to create a pin-like effect.
Materials needed:
- Shrink plastic sheets
- Inkjet printer
- Scissors or craft knife
- Oven
- Pin backs and strong glue
Process:
1. Print your design on the shrink plastic
2. Cut out the design
3. Bake according to the plastic's instructions
4. Once cooled, add a layer of clear enamel spray
5. Glue on the pin back
Here's a tutorial on this method:
This method involves creating a mold of your design and filling it with colored resin.
Materials needed:
- Silicone mold-making kit
- Colored resin
- Pin backs
- Strong glue
Process:
1. Create a mold of your design using the silicone kit
2. Mix and pour colored resin into the mold
3. Once cured, remove from the mold
4. Add a clear resin topcoat for shine
5. Glue on the pin back
While these methods can be fun for small-scale projects, they generally don't produce the same quality as professionally manufactured enamel pins.
Creating your own enamel pins can be a rewarding and potentially profitable venture. By following this guide, you'll be well-equipped to design, manufacture, and sell your own unique pins in the UK market. Remember, success often comes with practice and persistence, so don't be discouraged if your first attempts aren't perfect. Keep refining your designs and marketing strategies, and you'll be on your way to enamel pin success!
The cost of making enamel pins in the UK can vary widely depending on factors such as the complexity of your design, the number of colors used, the quantity ordered, and the manufacturer you choose. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from £1 to £5 per pin for a minimum order of 100 pins. However, the per-unit cost typically decreases as you order larger quantities.
Soft enamel pins have recessed areas of color with raised metal outlines, giving them a textured feel. They are generally less expensive to produce. Hard enamel pins have a smooth, flat surface where the enamel is level with the metal outlines. They are more durable and have a more premium look, but are typically more expensive to manufacture.
The production time for enamel pins can vary depending on the manufacturer and the complexity of your design. On average, you can expect the process to take 2-4 weeks from the time you approve the final design to receiving your pins. Some manufacturers may offer expedited services for an additional fee.
While it's possible to create pin-like items at home using methods like shrink plastic or resin casting, these DIY methods generally don't produce the same quality as professionally manufactured enamel pins. True enamel pins require specialized equipment and processes that aren't typically available for home use.
While it's difficult to completely prevent copying, you can take steps to protect your designs. Consider registering your designs with the UK Intellectual Property Office. Use watermarks on online images of your pins. Build a strong brand identity that customers associate with your unique designs. If you find someone copying your work, you can issue a cease and desist letter or seek legal advice if necessary.
[1] https://www.instructables.com/Making-Custom-Enamel-Pins-From-Home/
[2] https://www.madebycooper.co.uk/blog/why-does-it-take-so-long-to-make-enamel-pins
[3] https://www.busybeaver.net/blog/how-to-make-enamel-pins-the-complete-guide/
[4] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aWb1xYk-mVA
[5] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uMe-jK52RJ4
[6] https://www.shopify.com/uk/blog/how-to-make-enamel-pins
[7] https://studiodais.co.uk/what-goes-into-manufacturing-custom-enamel-pin-badges/
[8] https://quinnspins.com/blogs/news/how-to-make-enamel-pin-badges-a-step-by-step-guide-for-beginners
[9] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BlDoT1ZvZLo
[10] https://lunamise.com/blogs/blog/my-guide-to-making-enamel-pins
[11] https://www.custompinbadges.co.uk/blog/everything-you-need-to-know-about-making-enamel-pins/
[12] https://gamingpins.co.uk/blog/what-you-should-know-before-making-enamel-pins
[13] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rGEk7MwVCM4
[14] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0vZriPlxHvU
[15] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PAf3-NJK8Wg
[16] https://www.reddit.com/r/EnamelPins/comments/1cu849c/anyone_know_a_good_manufacturer_to_make_enamel/
[17] https://www.gemmathepen.com/post/how-i-made-my-first-enamel-pin-behind-the-scenes
[18] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xa1fg0DQ-yM
[19] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sT8eu6Dkl34
[20] https://www.facebook.com/61553661037824/videos/diy-hat-create-your-style-by-yourselves-enamel-pinsthree-little-ducks-%E0%B8%AA%E0%B8%B3%E0%B9%80%E0%B8%9E%E0%B9%87%E0%B8%87-%E0%B9%80%E0%B8%A2%E0%B8%B2/394381466713216/
[21] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5NjdpfT2jDo
[22] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XMtdpTmBPUc
[23] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zX6MUodOftY
[24] https://www.instructables.com/Design-and-Manufacture-Your-Own-Enamel-Lapel-Pin/
[25] https://www.tiktok.com/@hopyrion_art/video/7209368363808787717
[26] https://www.etsy.com/listing/685837716/enamel-pin-maker-100-pcs-turn-your-art
[27] https://www.pinlordshop.com/pages/how-to-make-enamel-pins
[28] https://www.reddit.com/r/EnamelPins/comments/15lihoz/how_to_make_my_own_enamel_pins_without/
[29] https://acountrygirlslife.com/how-to-make-pins-at-home-that-look-totally-professional/
[30] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DSHQv6uCEds