What’s the Difference Between Hard and Soft Enamel Pins?
In basic terms, enamel pins are decorative pins, made of engraved metals that are filled with enamel paints. These pins are not only popular for their aesthetic appeal but also for their ability to carry intricate designs in a compact, wearable form. The enamel fills add vibrant color and dimension to the pins, making them stand out as eye-catching items of expression, fashion, or branding.
There are about six types of pins and they include hard and soft enamel pins, die-struck pins, and photodome pins. The two most popular options among all of these are the hard and soft enamel pins.
This is why we are here to talk about their differences in terms of appearance or texture, how they are made, and their advantages.
What Are Soft Enamel Pins?
If you have come across an enamel pin with a textured or bumpy surface, that’s a soft enamel pin. A soft enamel pin is characterized by raised metal edges that form a jagged surface.
What Are Hard Enamel Pins?
Hard enamel pins are the direct opposite of soft enamel pins. They are known for their smooth feel and glossy surface.
Soft and Hard Enamel Pin Production Processes
The manufacturing process of both pins begins with the same activity which is to mold the pins’ design separately.
The molded design is then pounded into a metal (the base or plate of the enamel pin) to be engraved. At this point, the recessed areas for enamel paint are already formed. This is where the production processes pathways.
Soft Enamel Pin Production Process
- Overlaying the Plate
The next step once the engraved base is ready is to cover the outer layer of the plate with a color, dye, or another metal of gold or silver. This process is also known as electroplating.
- Enameling
The next step is to start filling the recessed or hollow areas on the design with a liquid paint called enamel paint. The paint is not poured to fill the holes to the brim thereby leaving the edges raw. Here is how the bumpy texture of the soft enamel is created.
- Hardening
This is the last process and it involves hardening the enamel pain. To do this, the pin is placed in an oven to bake ensuring that the paint turns out firm.
Hard Enamel Pin Production Process
- Enameling
For hard enamel pin, the filling of enamel ain comes first. This time, the paint is poured into the recessed areas to fill up to the brim. You can as well call it call it overfilling.
- Hardening
The hardening process of hard enamel takes quite a lot of time. If a hard enamel pin has eight distinct colors, the pin will be baked eight times to harden the paint. Meanwhile, soft enamel pins are only baked once regardless of the number of paints that make them up.
- Polishing
The next step for hard enamel pins is polishing. The edges are sand-papered to ensure a smooth surface and to the at the same level as the plate.
- Overlaying the Plate
While this step comes first in the soft enamel pin production process, it is te last for the hard enamel pins. Here, you can only overlay the exposed parts of the metal with either another gold or silver shiny metal.
Benefits of Soft Enamel Pins
Accommodate More Designs
The fact that soft enamel pins do not go through the polishing process makes it possible to use them for any type of design. From simple designs to complex, intricate, and sharp-edged designs, soft enamel pins serve you right!
Versatile Color Plating Options
While you can only overlay hard enamel pin plates with just a silver or gold metal, soft enamel pin plates can be overlayed with different colors to further complement the overall design.
Short Production Time
If you have a short time frame to complete your enamel pin projects, the short enamel pin is your surest option for meeting up.
Budget Friendly
Soft enamel pins do not cost as much as hard ones to produce. This renders them affordable.
Benefits of Hard Enamel Pin
Simple and Cooperate Designs
Hard enamel pins are best for simple and less intricate designs. The polished surface amplifies the simple design to look classy and suitable for corporate uses like organizations, awards, and many more.
Durable
The polishing and numerous baking in the hard enamel production process make them durable. They are resistant to scratches.
Luxurious Look
If you like to always keep up to a sophisticated standard, the custom hard enamel pin will be the best for you.
Key Differences Between Hard and Soft Enamel Pins
Features | Hard Enamel Pins | Soft Enamel Pins |
Surface | Smooth and glossy | Textured and bumpy |
Production Process | More complex and time-consuming | Simpler and quicker |
Durability | More durable and resistant to scratches | Less durable and prone to wear and tear |
Cost | Generally more expensive | Generally less expensive |
Design Complexity | Best suited for simple designs | Can accommodate more intricate designs |
Where to Order Enamel Pins?
If you’re looking to create high-quality, custom enamel pins that make a statement, look no further than FastPrintStar. Whether you’re designing for a personal project, event, or brand promotion, we offer top-notch craftsmanship, fast turnaround times, and exceptional customer service. With a wide range of customization options, you can bring your unique design to life in vibrant colors and durable finishes. Don’t wait—start designing your custom enamel pins today and let us help you turn your ideas into memorable, wearable art.
Conclusion
The decision between hard and soft enamel pins is a delicate balance of aesthetics, durability, and cost. Hard enamel pins, with their smooth, glossy finish, offer a sophisticated and timeless appeal. Their intricate designs and robust construction make them perfect for corporate branding, awards, and collector’s items. However, their production process is more time-consuming and expensive, making them less suitable for large-scale or budget-constrained projects.
Soft enamel pins, on the other hand, provide a more playful and artistic look with their textured surface. Their shorter production time and lower cost make them a popular choice for custom designs, promotional items, and limited edition releases. While they may not be as durable as hard enamel pins, they offer a unique and eye-catching alternative.
Knowing the unique features of each of them will help you make an informed decision that aligns with your specific needs. Whether you’re a collector, a brand owner, or simply someone looking to express their individuality, custom pins offer a versatile and stylish way to make a statement. Order now at FastPrintStar and take your pins to the next level!
