Custom Lapel Pins

Differences Between Custom Lapel Pins

What is a Cloisonne Lapel Pin?

Cloisonne is an ancient art style from of the Byzantine and Chinese empires of decorating metal with colored glass. A design is struck or stamped from copper or brass and the depressions are hand filled with a powdered glass compound. The lapel pin is then fired in a kiln at around 1600F. Once each color has gone through this process the pin is polished and coated with either gold or silver. Cloisonné lapel pins have the look and feel of jewelry. Classy, shiny and make a great impression.

What is a Die Struck Lapel Pin?

Also known as a Soft Enamel Cloisonne, a Die Struck Pin is made from copper, brass, or iron. Once the pin has been struck or stamped from the metal the depressions can be filled with an enamel color. Once the enamel is dry the pin is plated with brass, nickel, or copper. Sometimes the pins are finished with an antiqued or sand blasted look, depending on the preference of the designer.

What is a Photo Etched Lapel Pin?

An Etched pin is similar to a die struck pin except that the decorative depressions are etched into the metal with and acid/film process. This allows for more complex and intricate designs. Once the pin design transferred to the metal via the acid and the residue is washed off, the indentations are filled with enamel. Once the enamel is dry the pins are stamped out from the sheet and polished and plated to a shiny gold finish.

What is a Photo or Screened Lapel Pin?

For a Screened or Photo Lapel Pin the image or artwork is printed on a thin piece of mylar or vinyl and applied to the pin. The pin is then covered with an epoxy to protect the image. This process is great if you need and exact PMS color or if you need the image to have a gradient in the colors. Photo Pins are made domestically and have the option of rush production. You can have your rush lapel pins usually within 7 to 8 days.