
Hard Enamel Pin Badges Vs Soft Enamel Pin Badges
- 9 June 2024
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In the world of custom pin badges, two main types dominate the market and go head to head: hard enamel vs soft enamel. Understanding the differences between these two types is crucial for businesses looking to create high-quality, long-lasting products. This comprehensive guide delves into the specifics of hard enamel vs soft enamel, offering insights that will help you make an informed decision.
The Manufacturing Process – Hard Enamel Vs Soft Enamel
Hard Enamel Pin Badges
Hard enamel pin badges are known for their smooth, polished finish and durability. The process of creating hard enamel pins involves several meticulous steps:
- Design Creation: The initial design is created, typically using graphic design software.
- Moulding and Stamping: A mould is made based on the design, and the pin shape is stamped out of a metal sheet.
- Outline and Metal Plating: The outline of the design is formed on the pin, which is then plated with the desired metal colour (gold, silver, bronze, etc.).
- Colour Filling: Hard enamel pins are filled with enamel, which is added layer by layer. Each layer is baked at high temperatures to harden the enamel.
- Polishing: After the enamel is hardened, the pins are polished to create a smooth, even surface. This polishing process ensures that the enamel is flush with the metal lines, giving the pin a sleek finish.
- Inspection and Quality Control: Each pin is inspected to ensure it meets quality standards before being packaged.
Soft Enamel Pin Badges

Hard Vs Soft Enamel Products
Soft enamel pin badges, while similar in initial steps, differ in their finishing process:
- Design Creation: Like hard enamel, the design is crafted using graphic design software.
- Moulding and Stamping: A mould is made, and the pin shape is stamped from a metal sheet.
- Outline and Metal Plating: The pin is outlined and plated with the desired metal colour.
- Colour Filling: Soft enamel pins are filled with enamel but are not baked. Instead, the enamel is air-dried, allowing the enamel to sit slightly recessed below the metal lines.
- Epoxy Coating (Optional): An epoxy coating can be added to protect the enamel and give the pin a glossy finish. However, this is optional and not always used.
- Inspection and Quality Control: As with hard enamel, each pin undergoes a thorough inspection before packaging.
Durability and Longevity
Hard Enamel Pin Badges

Classic soft enamel badge with epoxy coating
Hard enamel pins are renowned for their durability. The baking process ensures that the enamel is hard and resilient, making these pins resistant to scratches and chips. The polished surface also adds to their longevity, maintaining their appearance over time even with frequent use. This durability makes hard enamel pins ideal for items that will be handled often, such as keychains, lapel pins, and commemorative items.
Soft Enamel Pin Badges

A close up of one of the double sided enamel coins we made!
Soft enamel pins, while still durable, are slightly less resilient than hard enamel pins. The recessed enamel can be more prone to scratches and chips, particularly if the pin is frequently handled or exposed to rough conditions. However, the addition of an epoxy coating can enhance their durability, providing a layer of protection that helps preserve the pin’s appearance. Soft enamel pins are often chosen for their vibrant, textured look, which can add a tactile element to the design.
Aesthetics and Visual Appeal
Hard Enamel Keyrings
The aesthetic appeal of hard enamel pin badges lies in their smooth, glossy finish. The even surface ensures that the colours are vibrant and uniform, with no dips or recesses. This sleek look is often preferred for more formal or professional designs, where a polished appearance is essential. The smooth finish also allows for intricate details to be highlighted clearly, making hard enamel pins ideal for complex logos and designs.
Soft Enamel Keychains

The Woods Coop Soft Enamel Keyring!
Soft enamel pin badges offer a different kind of visual appeal. The recessed enamel creates a textured effect, adding depth and dimension to the design. This texture can make the colours appear more vibrant, as the shadows created by the recessed areas enhance the contrast. Soft enamel pins are often chosen for more casual or artistic designs, where the tactile element and dynamic appearance can add to the overall aesthetic.
Cost and Production Time
Hard Enamel Pins

Supreme quality hard enamel keychains
The meticulous process involved in creating hard enamel pins typically results in a higher cost and longer production time. The baking and polishing steps are labour-intensive, contributing to the overall expense. However, for businesses seeking high-quality, durable pins that will make a lasting impression, the investment can be well worth it. The VANS SHOES hard enamel pin badges we made earlier this year are a good example of the hard enamel pin process.
Soft Enamel Pin Badges

The WOODS COOP soft enamel keychain in pocket!
Soft enamel pins are generally less expensive and quicker to produce than hard enamel pins. The absence of a baking and extensive polishing process reduces both the production time and cost. This makes soft enamel pins a popular choice for businesses on a budget or those needing a quick turnaround. Despite being less costly, soft enamel pins do not compromise on visual appeal, offering vibrant and textured designs that stand out.
Application and Usage
Hard Enamel Pin Badges
Hard enamel pins are often used for:
- Corporate Branding: Their polished and professional appearance makes them ideal for corporate logos and branding.
- Commemorative Pins: The durability and high-quality finish are perfect for commemorative items meant to last a lifetime.
- High-End Retail: Hard enamel pins can be sold as high-end retail items due to their superior quality and aesthetic appeal.
- Collectibles: Their durability makes them a favourite among collectors who value longevity and pristine condition.
Soft Enamel Pin Badges
Soft enamel pins are suitable for:
- Promotional Items: Their lower cost makes them ideal for mass distribution as promotional items.
- Fundraising: Organisations often use soft enamel pins for fundraising campaigns, where cost-effectiveness is crucial.
- Event Merchandise: The vibrant colours and textures are appealing for event merchandise, where eye-catching designs are key.
- Casual Wear: Soft enamel pins are popular for casual fashion accessories, adding a pop of colour and interest to outfits.
Choosing the Right Type for Your Business
When deciding between hard enamel vs soft enamel pin badges, consider the following factors:
- Purpose: Determine the primary purpose of the pins. If they are for high-end retail or corporate branding, hard enamel may be the better choice. For promotional items or event merchandise, soft enamel could be more suitable.
- Budget: Evaluate your budget. Hard enamel pins are more expensive, but their durability and polished look may justify the cost for certain applications. Soft enamel pins are more cost-effective, allowing for larger quantities within the same budget.
- Design Complexity: Consider the complexity of your design. Hard enamel pins can showcase intricate details more clearly, while soft enamel pins offer a textured, dynamic appearance.
- Durability Needs: Assess the required durability. Hard enamel pins are more resistant to wear and tear, making them suitable for items that will be frequently handled.
In conclusion, both hard enamel and soft enamel pin badges have their unique advantages and applications. Understanding the differences between hard enamel vs soft enamel can help businesses make informed decisions that align with their goals and budget. Whether you choose the polished, durable hard enamel pins or the vibrant, textured soft enamel pins, both options offer excellent opportunities to create visually appealing and meaningful products.
By carefully considering the manufacturing process, durability, aesthetics, cost, and intended use, businesses can select the type of pin badge that best meets their needs and delivers the desired impact.
So, What’s Next?

Studio Dais HQ
If you are still unsure why you should be considering custom hard enamel vs soft enamel for your next big marketing push, then don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today! We love to discuss creativity and business. It’s in our DNA. If enamel keyrings are not for you, why not consider our soft enamel pins, hard enamel badges, die struck pin badges or enamel coins?