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Jewelry Making
How to Make Enamel Pins Download Article Reviewed by Cory Schifter
Last Updated: July 30, 2025 References
Download Article
Creating a Design
|
Choosing a Manufacturer
|
Ordering Your Pins
|
Tips
|
Warnings
|Show more|Show less X
This article was reviewed by Cory Schifter. Cory Schifter is a Jeweler, Certified Jewelry Appraiser, and the Owner of Casale Jewelers in Dongan Hills, Staten Island, New York. Casale Jewelers is known for its selection of fine jewelry, designer brands, engagement rings, certified diamonds, custom-made jewelry, and watches. Cory has over 10 years in the jewelry industry and is a certified jewelry appraiser. Cory was featured on NY1 News “Got it Made in New York” for Casale Jewelers’ custom design business and Casale Jewelers was recognized by American Express and Facebook in 2012 as one of the top five small businesses in the nation. There are 10 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 49,392 times.
Enamel pins, sometimes called lapel pins, are small pins that are worn at the lapel of a jacket. They can also be attached to backpacks, purses, or other articles of clothing. With the rise of tumblr and Instagram, enamel pins have become an increasingly popular way of expressing identity. Many artists use social media to promote and sell their pins. Unfortunately, these pins are not safe to make by yourself at home, as a lot of specialized equipment is needed. But, once you have a design, the process of turning it into a physical pin using a manufacturer is fairly straightforward!
Steps
Part 1 Part 1 of 3:
Creating a Design
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1 Come up with an idea. You can look to television shows, books, and movies for inspiration, featuring your favorite characters on your pins. Pins are a great medium for fanart. You can also think about combining fun lettering and icons.
Keep a small sketchbook with you, so that whenever inspiration strikes you can quickly jot down your ideas.
Online communities are great places to start if you’re looking for ideas. Possible starting points are the Facebook groups Pin Nation or PinTrades, or the Enamel Pins tumblr page. On Instagram, noteworthy enthusiast accounts include @pincommunity, @pinoftheday, and @pin_lord.
2 Choose a graphic design program to use. You can start with a hand-drawn sketch, but manufacturers will need your design to be sent in a printable vector file. (Vector graphics are the most crisp and clear, and they’re usually AI, PSD, or EPS/PDF files.) Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator are best-suited for this. But, if you can’t afford these programs, there are several alternatives! The base requirement is that the program you use has layers, as your line work and colors should be separated.
Public libraries or schools will often have Adobe Creative Suite installed on public computers. Adobe also usually offers free trial periods for their products.
Vectr is a free graphics editor that you can download or use online. Vectr is pretty simple and doesn’t have as steep of a learning curve as other, more intricate graphics programs.
Inkscape has more features than Vectr, and it’s also open-source—meaning users are able to edit its source code if they want to change aspects of it.
3 Draw your design with clean, connecting lines. It’s super important to make sure that all of your lines connect to one another. If you have any unconnected lines, color will spill out into places that you don’t want it during the manufacturing process.[1]XResearch source
If you can, try to avoid small text or details on your designs, as it does not always translate well in manufacturing.
Be sure to indicate if there are parts of your pin that you want cut out! Placing a red X over these areas is generally the way to indicate that these sections need cut out.
4 Choose which colors you want to use. Only use solid colors in your design, as gradient or transparent colors won’t translate onto a pin. [2]XResearch source Use the Pantone color matching system to ensure that your colors are accurate. The Pantone system is a way of organizing colors, and it’s used by most designers and printers to ensure color accuracy.
When you send in a design, be sure to include color swatches that are labeled with the numbers of the colors you want.
It’s best to invest in a set of Pantone color swatches, but there’s also a free online tool to help you match your colors within the Pantone system: https://www.pantone.com/color-finder
5 Choose hard enamel if you want a more durable pin with a smooth surface. There are 2 types of enamel that you can use to make your pins: hard and soft. Hard enamel produces a polished, flat pin because the enamel is added before the plating, and each color has to be baked one by one. This means that they take more time and labor, so producing these pins is typically more expensive.[3]XResearch source
6 Opt for soft enamel if you want a pin with a textured surface. Soft enamel pins have recessed enamel because, in production, the image is first stamped in metal and cut to the right size. Then, all of the enamel is poured into the recessed areas, which is why it’s important to have all your lines connected so the colors stay separated. Generally, the colors are brighter and more vibrant with soft enamel pins. [4]XResearch source
Advertisement Part 2 Part 2 of 3:
Choosing a Manufacturer
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1 Decide where you want your pins to be made. The pin industry has been growing rapidly as of late. This means that there are now manufacturers all over the world. Manufacturers in Asia tend to be cheaper than those in North America and Europe, but be mindful of potential problems caused by language barriers.[5]XResearch source
A quick Google search for manufacturers is a good starting point, but because there are so many it can be helpful to get a referral from someone you know.
Additionally, Alibaba is a great way to find trustworthy overseas providers, as they feature user reviews that can verify the quality of a particular manufacturer: https://www.alibaba.com/. [6]XResearch source Global Sources offers a similar service: http://www.globalsources.com/.
GS-JJ, Manufacturer of Promotional Gifts
Pins are a fun way to elevate any outfit or accessory. Now, you can get unique pins without the hassle. wikiHow has partnered with GS-JJ to help you create high-quality custom enamel pins in no time at all.
If you buy through these links, we may earn a commission.
2 Describe what you want your pins to look like to get a quote. You’ll want to know exactly what you want before reaching out to a manufacturer. Tell them how many pins you want, the dimensions of your pins, and your preference of hard or soft enamel. They can then provide you with a quote for cost.[7]XResearch source
3 Ask questions about other specs of the pins. Before settling on a manufacturer, ask questions about different parts of the pin production process to make sure that your pins will be produced the way that you want. The following considerations are especially important if you’re looking to sell your pins.
How long is the production process? It should take between 2-4 weeks.
What will the bases of the pins be like? Will they be colored? How heavy will they be?
What type of needle will be affixed to the back of the pin? Will it have a clasp or rubber backing?
How much will shipping cost?
There are different ways manufacturers can ship your pins in terms of packaging. What kind of backing card will the pin be attached to? Or will it be put in a plastic bag?
4 Request a sample. If the manufacturer that you’re reaching out to is reputable, they should be perfectly willing to send you a sample of their work if you ask. Request an example pin that is similar spec-wise to what you are looking to buy. This can help you make a final decision.
Advertisement Part 3 Part 3 of 3:
Ordering Your Pins
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1 Order 1 month before you need the pins so they arrive on time. It will generally be 2-4 weeks before your pins arrive at your doorstep, so consider the timing of your order, especially if the pins you’re ordering are seasonal. You wouldn’t want holiday pins to arrive after the holidays have passed!
2 Communicate clearly with the manufacturer. Be extremely clear and specific in any descriptions of the pin you want to be produced. Provide the exact dimensions of your pin. It’s better to be more specific than too vague, as this could result in a pin that doesn’t match your creative vision.
3 Stay within your budget. Ordering pins doesn’t have to be extremely expensive if you are mindful of how cost is determined. Your cost will be affected a lot by what type of material you choose to have your pins made of, the complexity of your designs, the plating (the outlines and back of pin) color, and the type of backing (the piece on the back of the pin that attaches it to a garment). [8]XResearch source
The bulk of what you’re paying for from your manufacturer is the process to create new molds to stamp your pins. This means that re-ordering existing molds is relatively inexpensive, and ordering in bulk can lower costs even more. If you want to keep costs down, limit the amount of new molds that you order.[9]XResearch source
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Tips
Keep your eyes peeled for seasonal sales from manufacturers! Sometimes they’ll offer up to 40% off normal prices.[10]XResearch sourceThanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
If you want to sell your enamel pins, there are several platforms for online shops, like Etsy or Ebay, that you can use![11]XResearch source Marketing your shop on Instagram has also proved to be pretty effective. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
If you are having difficulty coming up with a design, there are a ton of talented professional designers around the world who you can hire to help. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
Show More Tips Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review! Advertisement
Warnings
You may stumble across video tutorials of how to do this process by yourself at home. Unless you have professional stamping equipment on hand, this is not recommended for safety reasons! Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 2
When you order a batch of pins, it’s likely that you’ll end up with a few defects. Don’t hesitate to ask for replacements for these pins. [12]XResearch sourceThanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
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Reviewed by: Cory Schifter Jeweler & Certified Jewelry Appraiser This article was reviewed by Cory Schifter. Cory Schifter is a Jeweler, Certified Jewelry Appraiser, and the Owner of Casale Jewelers in Dongan Hills, Staten Island, New York. Casale Jewelers is known for its selection of fine jewelry, designer brands, engagement rings, certified diamonds, custom-made jewelry, and watches. Cory has over 10 years in the jewelry industry and is a certified jewelry appraiser. Cory was featured on NY1 News “Got it Made in New York” for Casale Jewelers’ custom design business and Casale Jewelers was recognized by American Express and Facebook in 2012 as one of the top five small businesses in the nation. This article has been viewed 49,392 times. 59 votes - 32% Co-authors: 21Updated: July 30, 2025 Views: 49,392 Categories: Jewelry MakingArticle SummaryX
To make enamel pins, start by using a program like Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator to create your design. The lines of your design should all be connected and it should feature solid colors. Try to avoid using small text and details, since they don't translate well during manufacturing. Then, choose a manufacturer by running an online search and upload your design to their website so they can make a sample or proof. Finally, place your order at least a month before you need the pins. For tips on choosing between hard and soft enamel, read on!Did this summary help you?YesNo
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Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Reviewed by: Cory Schifter Jeweler & Certified Jewelry Appraiser 59 votes - 32% Click a star to vote 32% of people told us that this article helped them. Co-authors: 21Updated: July 30, 2025 Views: 49,392
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How to Print Vinyl Stickers with an Inkjet or Laser Printer 
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Reviewed by: Cory Schifter Jeweler & Certified Jewelry Appraiser This article was reviewed by Cory Schifter. Cory Schifter is a Jeweler, Certified Jewelry Appraiser, and the Owner of Casale Jewelers in Dongan Hills, Staten Island, New York. Casale Jewelers is known for its selection of fine jewelry, designer brands, engagement rings, certified diamonds, custom-made jewelry, and watches. Cory has over 10 years in the jewelry industry and is a certified jewelry appraiser. Cory was featured on NY1 News “Got it Made in New York” for Casale Jewelers’ custom design business and Casale Jewelers was recognized by American Express and Facebook in 2012 as one of the top five small businesses in the nation. This article has been viewed 49,392 times. 59 votes - 32% Co-authors: 21 Updated: July 30, 2025 Views: 49,392 Categories: Jewelry Making Article SummaryX
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1 Come up with an idea. You can look to television shows, books, and movies for inspiration, featuring your favorite characters on your pins. Pins are a great medium for fanart. You can also think about combining fun lettering and icons. 
2 Choose a graphic design program to use. You can start with a hand-drawn sketch, but manufacturers will need your design to be sent in a printable vector file. (Vector graphics are the most crisp and clear, and they’re usually AI, PSD, or EPS/PDF files.) Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator are best-suited for this. But, if you can’t afford these programs, there are several alternatives! The base requirement is that the program you use has layers, as your line work and colors should be separated. 
3 Draw your design with clean, connecting lines. It’s super important to make sure that all of your lines connect to one another. If you have any unconnected lines, color will spill out into places that you don’t want it during the manufacturing process.[1] 
4 Choose which colors you want to use. Only use solid colors in your design, as gradient or transparent colors won’t translate onto a pin. [2] Use the Pantone color matching system to ensure that your colors are accurate. The Pantone system is a way of organizing colors, and it’s used by most designers and printers to ensure color accuracy. 
5 Choose hard enamel if you want a more durable pin with a smooth surface. There are 2 types of enamel that you can use to make your pins: hard and soft. Hard enamel produces a polished, flat pin because the enamel is added before the plating, and each color has to be baked one by one. This means that they take more time and labor, so producing these pins is typically more expensive.[3] 
6 Opt for soft enamel if you want a pin with a textured surface. Soft enamel pins have recessed enamel because, in production, the image is first stamped in metal and cut to the right size. Then, all of the enamel is poured into the recessed areas, which is why it’s important to have all your lines connected so the colors stay separated. Generally, the colors are brighter and more vibrant with soft enamel pins. [4] Advertisement 
1 Decide where you want your pins to be made. The pin industry has been growing rapidly as of late. This means that there are now manufacturers all over the world. Manufacturers in Asia tend to be cheaper than those in North America and Europe, but be mindful of potential problems caused by language barriers.[5] 
GS-JJ, Manufacturer of Promotional Gifts 
2 Describe what you want your pins to look like to get a quote. You’ll want to know exactly what you want before reaching out to a manufacturer. Tell them how many pins you want, the dimensions of your pins, and your preference of hard or soft enamel. They can then provide you with a quote for cost.[7] 
3 Ask questions about other specs of the pins. Before settling on a manufacturer, ask questions about different parts of the pin production process to make sure that your pins will be produced the way that you want. The following considerations are especially important if you’re looking to sell your pins. 
4 Request a sample. If the manufacturer that you’re reaching out to is reputable, they should be perfectly willing to send you a sample of their work if you ask. Request an example pin that is similar spec-wise to what you are looking to buy. This can help you make a final decision. Advertisement 
1 Order 1 month before you need the pins so they arrive on time. It will generally be 2-4 weeks before your pins arrive at your doorstep, so consider the timing of your order, especially if the pins you’re ordering are seasonal. You wouldn’t want holiday pins to arrive after the holidays have passed! 
2 Communicate clearly with the manufacturer. Be extremely clear and specific in any descriptions of the pin you want to be produced. Provide the exact dimensions of your pin. It’s better to be more specific than too vague, as this could result in a pin that doesn’t match your creative vision. 
3 Stay within your budget. Ordering pins doesn’t have to be extremely expensive if you are mindful of how cost is determined. Your cost will be affected a lot by what type of material you choose to have your pins made of, the complexity of your designs, the plating (the outlines and back of pin) color, and the type of backing (the piece on the back of the pin that attaches it to a garment). [8] 
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