Custom Gold Medals | Personalize Your Awards
A custom gold medal is a personalized award that can be specially made in order to celebrate notable accomplishments with
- 86-13631162264
- [email protected]
- Visit our Alibaba
Custom enamel pins have become a popular way to showcase brand identity, celebrate fandoms, or commemorate events.
However, when ordering pins, one of the first decisions you’ll face is choosing between hard enamel and soft enamel.
While they may look similar at first glance, there are key differences in durability, texture, cost, and manufacturing.
In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between hard and soft enamel pins, helping you decide which is best for your needs.
Hard enamel pins are crafted using a traditional and time – honored technique. These pins undergo a polishing process that creates a smooth, flat surface.
The enamel is baked at high temperatures and then polished down to the metal dividers , resulting in a glossy, durable finish.
One of the key advantages of the hard enamel technique lies in its ability to create highly detailed and precise designs. The etched or stamped patterns on hard enamel coins are sharply defined, with every letter and line clearly distinguishable from any viewing angle. Unlike some other finishes, hard enamel does not produce a glossy sheen that could cause glare and make the design difficult to read. Instead, it offers a consistent, matte – like appearance that enhances the clarity and legibility of the coin’s design.
Soft enamel pins, on the other hand, use a different type of enamel and have a textured surface where the enamel sits slightly below the metal lines.
These pins are not polished flat, giving them a tactile, raised feel. They are often more affordable and faster to produce.
As soft enamel coins don’t require stoning or polishing, this cannot occur. Usually, soft enamel is used to make an item look more realistic. The application of soft enamels can give an object a look as if it’s really there.
Let’s get a quick understanding of Soft Enamel VS Hard Enamel Pins, just judging from the surface:
The surface is completely flat because the enamel is polished down.
High-gloss finish
Looks more premium and refined.
The metal separations are raised, creating a tactile feel.
Colors are slightly recessed, adding depth.
Often used for designs requiring a vintage or rugged look.
Soft enamel pins have earned their place as the most sought – after choice, offering an ideal blend of style and affordability. With a moderate level of quality, these pins feature a delightful textured finish that adds to their visual appeal.
Their cost – effectiveness makes them a smart option for a wide range of projects, allowing for creative freedom in terms of shape and size. Whether you’re looking to create promotional items, fan merchandise, or personal accessories, soft enamel pins are perfect for mid – range lapel pin needs.
Hard enamel pins represent the pinnacle of lapel pin craftsmanship. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, these high – end pins boast a flawlessly smooth and elegant surface that exudes luxury.
While they come with a higher price tag compared to soft enamel pins, the investment is well worth it for those seeking a touch of sophistication.
Hard enamel pins are the go – to choice for corporate branding, commemorating special events, or creating exclusive collectibles, making a lasting impression with their premium quality and timeless appeal.
Soft Enamel Pins | Hard Enamel Pins |
1. CNC artwork and Engrave mold | 1. CNC artwork and Engrave mold |
2. Fix mold | 2. Fix mold |
3. Polish | 3. Filling color |
4. Plating | 4. Bake |
5. Filling color | 5. Polish |
6. Bake | 6. Plating |
The polished surface is less prone to scratches.
Better for frequently handled items (e.g., employee badges, military pins).
Can last 10+ years with proper care.
The raised metal lines can wear down over time with heavy use.
More susceptible to chipping if dropped or scraped.
Typically lasts 5-7 years under normal conditions.
Hard enamel pins are highly durable due to the high – temperature firing process. The vitreous enamel forms a hard, protective layer over the metal base. They are resistant to scratches, fading, and general wear and tear.
Soft enamel pins are generally less durable than hard enamel pins. Over time, with repeated handling and friction, the surface of a soft enamel pin may develop small scratches that can dull the appearance of the colors.
A study by a pin manufacturer found that hard enamel pins retained 90% of their color vibrancy after 5 years, while soft enamel pins showed 15-20% fading in the same period.
To make your decision easier, here’s a quick comparison of hard and soft enamel pins:
Feature | Hard Enamel | Soft Enamel |
Finish | Smooth, flat, glossy | Textured, raised metal details |
Durability | Highly durable, scratch-resistant | Durable but slightly less so |
Price | Higher cost due to polishing | More budget-friendly |
Colors | Limited but elegant | Bright and vibrant |
Best For | Corporate, professional designs | Artistic, intricate, colorful designs |
You want a luxury, polished look.
Durability is a priority (e.g., daily wear).
Budget is not a constraint.
You need fast, affordable production.
You prefer a textured, dimensional look.
You’re ordering in bulk for events or promotions.
Hard Enamel Pins
Soft Enamel Pins
Both hard and soft enamel pins have unique advantages.
If you prioritize durability and a premium finish, hard enamel is the way to go.
If you need cost-effective, textured pins with quicker turnaround, soft enamel is the better choice.
Now that you know the differences, you can confidently choose the best enamel pin type for your project.
If you are still unsure, contact us and let us know.
As an enamel pin maker with a professional experience, Peakeen is able to help you to pick out the most suitable one and the best looking one for your design. Whether it’s for branding, merch, or personal use, both styles offer great ways to make a lasting impression!
A custom gold medal is a personalized award that can be specially made in order to celebrate notable accomplishments with
A custom keychain is a unique and fun accessory that can be tailored to your individual style or promotional needs.
No. 5, Tongan Road,
East District Xiaolan Town,
Zhongshan, Guangdong,
China
Copyright © 2024, Zhongshan Peakeen Gifts Supply Chain Co., Ltd. All rights reserved. Powered by PeaKeen Privacy Policy
Let’s work together to achieve business growth！
10% Off