Printed Pins
Full-Color, High-Detail Custom Pins
Printed Pins – Full-Color, High-Detail Custom Pins
Printed pins are the best choice when your design includes photographs, gradients, tiny details, or unlimited colors that can’t be achieved with traditional enamel pins. Instead of using enamel filling, your artwork is directly printed onto a metal base—allowing 100% accuracy and unlimited creativity.
If you need pins that look exactly like your digital artwork, printed pins are the perfect option.
⭐ What Are Printed Pins?
Unlike enamel pins, printed pins don’t require raised metal lines to separate colors. Your design is printed directly on a smooth metal surface, protected by a clear epoxy dome for durability.
Finish: Flat surface with clear coating (glossy epoxy)
Colors: Unlimited, including gradients and photo-quality images
Durability: 3–5 years with epoxy protection
Thickness: Standard 0.8 mm – 1.2 mm (lighter than enamel pins)
Material: Stainless steel, brass, or iron base
Best Use: Complex logos, photo pins, highly detailed illustrations
🔑 Key Features of Printed Pins
Unlimited Colors – full CMYK or Pantone printing
Photo-Realistic Designs – great for faces, detailed art, or shading
Fastest Production – no enamel filling or polishing required
Protective Epoxy Dome – prevents scratching and fading
Lightweight & Cost-Effective – cheaper for large runs
📊 Printed Pins vs. Enamel Pins – Data Comparison
Feature | Printed Pins | Soft/Hard Enamel Pins |
|---|---|---|
Surface Texture | Flat, glossy (epoxy dome) | Textured (soft) / Smooth (hard) |
Colors | Unlimited (gradients, photos possible) | Limited to 10–12 solid Pantone colors |
Durability | 3–5 years | 5–10 years |
Detail Level | Extremely fine (tiny text, images) | Limited by enamel & metal lines |
Cost per 100 pcs (1") | $160–$220 | $180–$280 |
Best Use | Logos, portraits, full-color designs | Collectibles, luxury branding |
📐 Printed Pin Design Guidelines
Colors
Unlimited CMYK printing (photos, gradients, shadows allowed).
Pantone matching available for brand consistency.
Detail Level
Tiny text ≥ 1 mm height remains legible.
No need for metal lines separating colors.
Size Options
Small: 0.75” (19 mm) – logos and badges.
Standard: 1.25”–1.5” (32–38 mm) – most popular.
Large: 2” (50 mm) – great for detailed artwork.
Thickness
Standard: 0.8 mm – 1.2 mm.
Optional: Epoxy dome adds ~0.3 mm to thickness.
Back Options
Butterfly clutch
Rubber clutch
Magnetic back (for uniforms)
Safety pin style
🛠️ Production Process – Fast & Accurate
Step | Description | Time Required |
|---|---|---|
Base Creation | Metal base cut into shape | 1–2 days |
Plating | Gold, Silver, Nickel, Black, etc. | 1 day |
Printing | CMYK or Pantone image applied | 1 day |
Epoxy Coating | Glossy dome applied for protection | 1 day |
QC & Assembly | Backings attached & checked | 1–2 days |
Packing & Shipping | Standard packaging + courier | 3–7 days |
⏱ Total production time: 8–12 working days (faster than enamel).
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can printed pins show photos or gradients?
A: Yes! Unlike enamel pins, printed pins can display full-color, photo-quality artwork.
Q: How durable are printed pins?
A: 3–5 years with epoxy coating. For longer lifespan, enamel pins are recommended.
Q: What is the smallest text size possible?
A: As small as 5 pt font can remain readable.
Q: Do printed pins come with plating options?
A: Yes, you can still choose from shiny or antique platings.
Q: Can I order without epoxy coating?
A: Yes, but epoxy is highly recommended to prevent scratches.
Use 300 dpi artwork for the best print clarity.
If using text, keep font size ≥ 5 pt for readability.
Add an epoxy dome (recommended) for protection & gloss.
Consider custom-shaped die-cut bases for uniqueness.
Printed pins are excellent for short runs and fast turnarounds.
Minimum Order Quantity: 50 pcs per design
Average Costs (1.25” pin, full color, epoxy finish):
100 pcs → $160–$220
300 pcs → $420–$540
500 pcs → $700–$850
