Die-Struck Pins (No Color)
Timeless All-Metal Elegance
Die-Struck Pins (No Color) – Timeless All-Metal Elegance
Die-struck pins (no color) are the purest form of custom pins, crafted entirely from polished or textured metal without enamel filling. They rely on contrast between raised and recessed areas of metal to create a classic, elegant look.
Perfect for corporate branding, awards, recognition, and minimalist designs, die-struck pins emphasize craftsmanship and durability without relying on color.
⭐ What Are Die-Struck Pins?
Die-struck pins are created by stamping your design into a sheet of metal. The raised areas are polished, while recessed areas can be textured, sandblasted, or antiqued for contrast. Since no enamel colors are added, the result is a sophisticated, all-metal pin.
Finish: Polished metal or antique texture
Durability: 10+ years (longest-lasting pin style)
Thickness: Standard 1.2 mm – 1.6 mm (can go up to 2.5 mm for premium pins)
Material Options: Brass, iron, or zinc alloy
Best Use: Corporate awards, uniform pins, commemoratives, classic designs
🔑 Key Features of Die-Struck Pins
No color needed – pure metal artistry
Elegant, professional look – perfect for recognition or branding
Durability – most resistant to scratches, fading, or chipping
Cost-effective – no color means fewer production steps
Finish variety – polished, sandblasted, matte, or antique
📊 Die-Struck vs. Enamel Pins – Data Comparison
Feature | Die-Struck Pins (No Color) | Enamel Pins (Soft/Hard) |
|---|---|---|
Surface Texture | Raised & recessed metal | Colored enamel + metal outlines |
Colors | None (metal contrast only) | 6–12 solid colors (Pantone matched) |
Durability | 10+ years | 5–10 years |
Detail Level | Medium to high (lines ≥ 0.2 mm) | Medium to high (lines + enamel areas) |
Cost per 100 pcs (1") | $150–$220 | $180–$280 |
Best Use | Awards, recognition, classic logos | Artist pins, collectibles, colorful merch |
📐 Die-Struck Pin Design Guidelines
Line Thickness
Minimum: 0.2 mm for raised metal lines
Recommended: 0.3 mm for crisp separation
Textures & Contrast
Use sandblasting or matte finish in recessed areas for depth
Raised areas polished for shine
Size Options
Small: 0.75” (19 mm) – lapel pins, uniform use
Standard: 1.25”–1.5” (32–38 mm) – most common corporate size
Large: 2” (50 mm) – commemorative or premium award pins
Thickness Options
Standard: 1.2 mm – 1.6 mm
Premium: 2.0–2.5 mm (heavier, more prestigious feel)
Plating Options
Shiny Gold, Silver, Nickel
Black Nickel
Antique Bronze, Antique Silver, Antique Gold (for depth and contrast)
Matte finishes
Back Attachments
Butterfly clutch
Rubber clutch
Deluxe clutch (locking, premium)
Magnet or safety pin
🛠️ Production Process
Step | Description | Time Required |
|---|---|---|
Mold Creation | Custom die mold made from design | 2–3 days |
Die-Striking | Design stamped into metal sheet | 1 day |
Cutting & Shaping | Excess trimmed, pin shape defined | 1 day |
Plating | Chosen metal finish applied | 1 day |
Polishing/Texturing | Raised areas polished, recess textured | 1–2 days |
Assembly & QC | Backings attached, pins inspected | 1–2 days |
Packing & Shipping | Packed for delivery | 3–7 days |
⏱ Total production time: 12–15 working days (2–3 weeks).
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can die-struck pins include color?
A: No, these are strictly metal-only. If you want color, choose soft or hard enamel pins.
Q: What’s the most popular plating?
A: Antique gold and antique silver, since they show depth best.
Q: How long will die-struck pins last?
A: 10+ years, making them the most durable pin type.
Q: Can I make very detailed designs?
A: Yes, but fine details under 0.2 mm lines may not be clear.
Q: Are they lighter than enamel pins?
A: No, they’re often heavier since they’re solid metal.
Use contrast in textures (polished vs. matte/sandblasted) for readability.
Keep lettering height ≥ 1.5 mm for clear recognition.
Antique platings are excellent for detailed designs (they highlight shadows).
For prestigious pins, choose thicker metal (2.0–2.5 mm).
Great option if your brand or event calls for a classic, professional look.
Minimum Order Quantity: 50 pcs per design
Average Costs (1.25” die-struck pin, antique finish):
100 pcs → $120–$180
300 pcs → $260–$500
500 pcs → $650–$850
