How To Make Badge Reels
If you work in a place where an ID card is a must, you’ve probably seen or even used a badge reel. They’re simple, handy tools that keep your ID close while making it easy to pull out when needed. Nurses, teachers, office staff, and even event workers rely on them every day.
What makes badge reels special is that they can be both practical and fun. A plain badge reel does the job, but a creative or custom badge reel lets you show off your style. Some people even turn them into small fashion pieces, matching them with their work outfits or hobbies.
In this guide, you’ll learn different ways to make your own badge reels, whether with acrylic, resin, fabric, or glitter. We’ll also share creative ideas, how to wear them properly, and where to buy customized badge reels if you’d rather shop than DIY.
What is a Badge Reel?
A badge reel is a small device that helps you carry your ID card, keys, or tiny tools without hassle. It has a round or square casing with a retractable cord inside. This cord lets you pull your ID forward to swipe or show, then it snaps back into place.
Most custom ID badge reels also come with a clip at the back. You can attach the clip to your shirt, belt, bag, or even your lanyard. That way, your ID stays safe and easy to reach at all times. They are popular in hospitals, schools, and offices. Nurses, teachers, and staff use them for quick access to ID cards.
Essential Supplies for Badge Reels
Before you start crafting, you need the right materials. The good news is that most supplies are easy to find online or at local craft stores. Having the basics ready will make the process smoother.
Here are some common supplies:
- Badge reel bases:Plain reels with clips, ready to decorate.
- Adhesives:Strong glue, hot glue, or resin for securing designs.
- Decorative items:Acrylic blanks, fabric, glitter, charms, custom stickers, or patches.
- Protective layer:Resin or sealant to keep designs from fading or peeling.
- Tools:Scissors, tweezers, brushes, or molds depending on the design.
If you want your badge reels to last longer, always use quality glue or resin. This keeps your design from falling off after daily use. Having these essentials ready gives you a strong start for making acrylic, resin, fabric, or glitter badge reels.
How to Make Acrylic Badge Reels
Acrylic badge reels are simple yet stylish. They are also one of the easiest types to make, which makes them a favorite for beginners.
What you need:
- Plain badge reel base
- Acrylic blanks (round, square, or custom shapes)
- Vinyl stickers, decals, or paint pens
- Strong glue or adhesive
- Sealant for protection
Steps to follow:
- Prepare the acrylic blank.Clean the surface so it is free of dust and fingerprints.
- Add your design.Stick on vinyl decals, paint patterns, or add printed graphics.
- Seal the design.Use a clear coat or resin to protect the surface from scratches.
- Attach to the reel.Use strong glue to secure the acrylic piece to the badge reel base.
- Let it dry.Give the glue time to cure before using the reel.
Custom acrylic badge reels are popular because you can make one with your favorite color, your initials, or even a small logo.
How to Make Resin Badge Reels
Resin badge reels are eye-catching and fun to design. They allow you to add color, glitter, or even tiny decorations inside the resin.
What you need:
- Plain badge reel base
- Epoxy resin and hardener
- Silicone molds in different shapes
- Glitter, dried flowers, or small charms
- Mixing cups and sticks
- Gloves and a flat workspace
Steps to follow:
- Mix the resin.Follow the instructions on the package and stir slowly to avoid bubbles.
- Pour into the mold.Fill the mold halfway, then add glitter or decorations.
- Add more resin.Cover the items completely so the surface is smooth.
- Let it cure.Leave the resin to harden for several hours or overnight.
- Attach to the reel.Once hardened, glue the resin piece onto your badge reel base.
Resin reels are great for anyone who loves bold designs. You can make custom badge reels with glitter, floral pieces, or themed charms that match your job or personal style.
How to Make Fabric Badge Reels
Fabric badge reels are a great way to mix color and texture into your everyday gear because they are soft, lightweight.
What you need:
- Plain badge reel base
- Fabric scraps or patterned fabric
- Felt or stiff backing
- Hot glue or fabric glue
- Scissors and a template for cutting shapes
Steps to follow:
- Cut the fabric.Use a round or shaped template to cut fabric pieces that fit your reel.
- Add a backing.Place felt behind the fabric to keep it firm and prevent fraying.
- Secure the layers.Glue the fabric and felt together, making sure the edges are neat.
- Attach to the reel.Glue the finished piece onto the badge reel base.
- Embellish if you want.Add embroidery, buttons, or small patches for a personal touch.
Fabric reels are especially popular for custom badge reels for nurses and teachers, since they can be made in bright patterns or school colors.
How to Make Glitter Badge Reels
Glitter badge reels are all about sparkle and shine. They are simple yet eye-catching. You can mix colors for a bold look or use holographic glitter for extra shine.
What you need:
- Plain badge reel base
- Clear badge blank or flat surface
- Fine or chunky glitter
- Strong adhesive or resin
- Small brush for applying glue
Steps to follow:
- Prepare the base.Make sure the surface is clean and dry.
- Apply adhesive.Brush a thin, even layer of glue or resin onto the blank.
- Add glitter.Sprinkle glitter over the sticky surface, making sure it covers fully.
- Seal it.Once dry, coat with resin or clear sealant so the glitter does not flake off.
- Attach to the reel.Glue the finished glitter piece onto your badge reel base.
If you are making custom retractable badge reels in bulk, glitter designs are a cost-effective way to create a playful and uniform style for a group.
Creative Design Ideas for Badge Reels
Once you know the basics, the fun really begins. Badge reels can be customized in endless ways to match your job, hobbies, or even the season and they give you the chance to show off your personality at work.
Some design ideas to try:
- Seasonal themes:Snowflakes for winter, pumpkins for fall, or flowers for spring.
- Professional styles:Stethoscopes or heart shapes for nurses, books or apples for teachers, or company logos for office staff.
- Personal touches:Monograms, favorite colors, or tiny charms that reflect your hobbies.
- Special events:Holiday designs, awareness ribbons, or birthday reels to celebrate milestones.
How to Wear a Badge Reel
Wearing a badge reel the right way makes it both practical and comfortable. The good thing is that there are several styles to choose from depending on your outfit or work setting.
Common clip styles:
- Alligator clip:Rotates easily and works well on pockets, scrubs, or collars.
- Belt clip:Slides onto a belt or waistband for a secure hold.
- Carabiner clip:Attaches to belt loops or bags, perfect for people on the move.
Best places to attach:
- Shirt collar or pocket
- Scrub top or waistband
- Bag strap or lanyard
To avoid damage, do not clip onto delicate fabrics that might tear. Also, make sure the reel hangs at a comfortable height so you can pull your ID card without straining the cord.
Lanyard badge reels are another option if you prefer wearing your ID around your neck while keeping the reel for easy access. They combine the best of both worlds, convenience and style.
Where to Buy Badge Reels
Making your own badge reels is fun, but sometimes buying ready-made designs saves time. And If you want something more personal, customized badge reels are the way to go.
This is where FastPrintStar comes in.They specialize in creating high-quality custom badge reels that gives you the freedom to choose colors, patterns, or even logos that match your style or workplace needs. You can order bulk custom badge reels for your teams, hospital, or school so everyone has a uniform look with a unique twist.
From custom carabiner badge reels to glitter-filled designs and even custom retractable badge reels for nurses, they bring your ideas to life. They also offer custom lanyard badge reels for those who prefer neckwear. Whether you need one piece or bulk orders, their customized badge reels combine style, durability, and functionality.
Final Thoughts on Badge Reels
Badge reels may seem like small accessories, but they make daily life easier for anyone who needs quick access to an ID card.
DIY reels let you explore your creativity, while custom badge reels give you professional-quality results with less effort.
If crafting is not your thing, remember you can always choose custom badge reels from trusted makers. The goal is simple, keep your ID secure while showing off a bit of your personality.
