Enamel Pins vs Printed / Epoxy Pins vs Plated Pins
Enamel Pins
Best for: Premium branding, long-term use, and collectible designs
Enamel pins are among the most popular and durable types of custom pins. They are made by stamping your design into metal and filling the recessed areas with enamel colours.
Ideal for: Corporate branding, premium giveaways, employee recognition, fashion labels, and collectible merchandise.
Types of Enamel Pins
Soft Enamel Pins
- Slightly recessed colours with raised metal lines
- Textured finish
- Cost-effective and highly detailed
Hard Enamel Pins
- Smooth, polished surface
- Colours are filled and baked until level with the metal
- Premium look and feel
Pros
- Highly durable and long-lasting
- Excellent colour retention
- Professional, high-end appearance
Cons
- Higher cost compared to printed pins
- Longer production time
Printed / Epoxy Pins
Best for: Complex artwork, gradients, and short-term promotions
Printed pins are created by printing the design directly onto a flat metal surface. An epoxy coating is often added on top for protection and a glossy finish.
Ideal for: Event giveaways, marketing campaigns, promotional merchandise, and budget-friendly projects.
Key Features
- Supports photographic images, gradients, and fine details
- Smooth surface with optional epoxy dome
- Faster production and lower cost
Pros
- Ideal for complex or multi-colour designs
- More affordable for large quantities
- Shorter lead time
Cons
- Less durable than enamel pins
- Colours may fade over time
- Less premium feel
Plated Pins (Metal Pins Without Colour Fill)
Best for: Minimalist, elegant, and corporate designs
Plated pins focus on metal finishes without enamel or printed colours. The design is stamped or etched into metal and finished with plating such as gold, silver, black nickel, or antique finishes.
Ideal for: Corporate logos, lapel pins, awards, official uniforms, and formal events.
Pros
- Sleek, sophisticated appearance
- Highly durable
- Timeless and professional look
Cons
- Limited colour options
- Less visual impact for playful or colourful designs
Comparison Overview
| Feature | Enamel Pins | Printed / Epoxy Pins | Plated Pins |
| Colour Detail | High | Very High | None / Minimal |
| Finish | Textured or Smooth | Smooth & Glossy | Metallic |
| Durability | High | Medium | Very High |
| Cost | Medium to High | Low to Medium | Medium |
| Best Use | Premium branding | Promotions & events | Corporate & formal use |
Choosing the Right Pin for Your Needs
When deciding which pin type to choose, consider:
- Design complexity – gradients or photos work best with printed pins
- Budget – printed pins are more cost-effective for large quantities
- Brand image – enamel and plated pins offer a more premium feel
- Usage – long-term wear vs short-term promotional use
Custom Pins by Klassic
At Klassic, we specialise in producing high-quality custom pins tailored to your brand’s requirements. Whether you’re looking for premium enamel pins, vibrant printed pins, or elegant plated pins, our team can guide you from design to production.
Contact us today to discuss your custom pin project and find the perfect solution for your brand.