What’s the Difference Between a Lapel Pin and an Enamel Pin?
When it comes to adding a touch of personality or expressing identity, pins are the perfect accessory. But with all the terms out there, it can get a bit confusing. You’ve probably asked yourself, What exactly is the difference between a lapel pin and an enamel pin? Well, you’re in the right place. In this blog, we’ll explore these popular accessories, clarify the distinctions, and help you find the right pin for any occasion.
What is a Lapel Pin?
Simply put, a lapel pin is any small pin worn on clothing, often on the lapel of a jacket or shirt (hence the name). These pins serve many purposes—from making a fashion statement to showing affiliation with a group or organisation. Lapel pins are available in a wide range of styles and materials, including metal, enamel, and even fabric.
So, to clear things up: all enamel pins are lapel pins, but not all lapel pins are enamel pins. Lapel pins are a broader category that includes enamel pins, printed pins, die-struck pins, and more.
What is an Enamel Pin?
An enamel pin is a specific type of lapel pin that features coloured enamel to fill in the design. These pins are often eye-catching, with vibrant colours and a smooth, glossy finish. The enamel is cured at high temperatures to harden and create a long-lasting piece of art.
Enamel pins are incredibly popular among collectors, artists, and brands wanting to create bold designs that stand out. These pins can be customised in numerous ways, from the colours to the level of detail, making them ideal for events, promotions, or simply personal expression.
Types of Enamel Pins and Lapel Pins
There are several types of pins to choose from, each offering something a bit different:
1. Hard Enamel Pins
Hard enamel pins have a smooth finish, where the enamel is polished down to be flush with the metal edges. This gives the pin a professional, sleek look and makes it more durable. Hard enamel pins are perfect for brands or occasions where you need a refined, high-quality pin.
2. Soft Enamel Pins
Soft enamel pins are just as visually striking but have a more textured finish. The enamel sits lower than the raised metal edges, creating a dimensional effect. These pins tend to be more affordable than hard enamel pins, and their slightly raised surface can highlight intricate designs.
3. Die Struck Pins
These pins don’t use enamel at all. Instead, they focus on texture, using a die to strike a design into the metal. Often, these pins are polished or plated with gold, silver, or bronze to give them a distinguished look. They’re great for commemorative purposes, such as service awards or club memberships.
4. Printed Pins
Printed pins allow for more detailed images because they skip the metal lines and enamel fill altogether. Instead, an image is printed directly onto the pin and coated with a clear epoxy layer. This makes them ideal for complex designs, photos, or logos that need full colour and finer detail.
Hard Enamel Pins vs. Soft Enamel Pins: Which is Better?
One of the biggest questions people ask is whether they should go for hard or soft enamel pins. The answer depends on what you’re looking for.
- Hard enamel pins are great for a polished, professional look. They’re more durable and tend to have a more premium feel due to their smooth, flat surface. These are ideal for events, formal occasions, or corporate branding.
- Soft enamel pins offer a more playful, textured appearance. They’re slightly cheaper and perfect for creative or casual designs where a bit of texture adds to the charm.
Ultimately, both types are excellent choices—it just comes down to the aesthetic and purpose you’re aiming for.
Other Popular Styles of Lapel Pins
Besides enamel pins, there are other styles worth considering:
Cloisonné Pins
These are a type of hard enamel pin with a jewellery-like finish, often used in traditional Asian art. They’re similar to hard enamel pins but tend to have a more luxurious, high-end appeal.
Offset Printed Pins
If your design involves gradients or complex details, offset printed pins are the way to go. They don’t require the metal lines separating the colours like enamel pins do, which allows for more intricate, photo-realistic images.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re after a lapel pin or an enamel pin, knowing the difference between them can help you make the best choice. Enamel pins, with their vibrant colours and durability, are a fantastic option for bold, creative designs. Lapel pins, in their broader sense, offer more variety, with options ranging from classic die-struck pins to photo-realistic printed pins.
No matter what you choose, these little pieces of art allow you to express your identity, share a message, or simply add a unique touch to any outfit. So, whether you’re a collector, an organisation, or just someone looking for that extra bit of flair—there’s a perfect pin waiting for you!