When it comes to the world of enamel pins, the debate between hard enamel vs soft enamel pins is a common topic among collectors and designers alike. The pros and cons of each type make them suitable for different purposes and desires.
In this blog post, we will delve into the die struck process for creating these captivating accessories, exploring electroplating options and how cavities are filled with liquefied colored enamel paint. We will also discuss the affordable versatility of soft enamel pins as well as customizable electroplating choices that make them an ideal choice for online store designers seeking higher margins.
Furthermore, we'll examine hard enamel pins - known for their durability and glossy finish - which hold greater perceived value among collectors or recipients. These qualities make them particularly suitable for uniform/logo/service award employee pins. Lastly, we'll weigh cost considerations between hard and soft enamel pins before guiding you through choosing between these two popular options based on factors affecting your decision-making process.
By understanding the differences in advantages and disadvantages of hard enamel vs soft enamel pins, you can confidently select the best option tailored to your specific needs or design preferences.
The Die Struck Process for Enamel Pins
Both soft enamel pins and hard enamel pins are made using the "Die Struck" process, which involves engraving your design into a steel mold and stamping it out of metal. This method is used to create various designs and colors in enamel pins, but there are key differences in their production processes that affect their appearance, durability, texture, and cost.
- Electroplating options for custom color plating:
- Choose from gold, silver, or even black nickel finishes.
- Filling cavities with liquefied colored enamel paint:
- Add vibrant hues to make your pin stand out.
The die struck process for enamel pins is an intricate and precise method of producing high quality pins with sharp details. With its customizable electroplating options, soft enamel pins offer a great balance between affordability and versatility.
Soft Enamel Pins - Affordable Versatility
If you're after an economical and flexible choice, soft enamel pins are the perfect option. These popular pins have a unique texture due to their uneven surface level filled with colored enamel paint. Since they don't undergo polishing during production, exposed metal edges remain sharp, allowing for endless customization options.
- Customizable electroplating: Choose from various platings like black or rainbow to make your pin stand out.
- Ideal choice for online store designers: Soft enamel pins offer higher margins, making them perfect for those seeking profitability in their designs.
Soft enamel pins offer an affordable and versatile option for customizing electroplating options, making them ideal for online store designers seeking higher margins. With their glossy finish and greater perceived value among collectors or recipients, hard enamel pins are the perfect choice when looking to create uniform/logo/service award employee pins that will last a lifetime.
Hard Enamel Pins - Durability & Glossy Finish
If you're looking for a pin that's both durable and has a glossy finish, hard enamel pins are the way to go. These pins undergo multiple rounds of baking after being filled with paint until they reach level surfaces, resulting in their super toughness compared to soft ones. They also get polished before electroplating, adding a thin veneer over exposed iron or zinc edges which contributes further towards durability and scratch resistance.
- Greater perceived value among collectors or recipients
- Suitable for uniform/logo/service award employee pins
This quality perception is why many pin enthusiasts prefer the clean finished look offered by hard enamels instead of choosing soft ones because certain finishes are only available with the latter type like black or rainbow platings.
Hard enamel pins offer a superior durability and glossy finish, making them the ideal choice for collectors or recipients of uniform/logo/service award employee pins. Additionally, cost considerations between hard and soft enamel pins should also be taken into account when deciding which type to purchase.
Cost Considerations Between Hard and Soft Enamel Pins
When it comes to cost considerations between hard and soft enamel pins, there are some key differences. If you're an online store designer or owner seeking higher margins, the more affordable soft enamel pins might be your best bet as they can be up to 40% cheaper than their counterparts.
- Affordable and versatile option: Soft enamel pins offer a cost-effective choice for those looking to create unique designs without breaking the bank.
- Perceived as higher quality but costlier: Hard enamel pins may come with a heftier price tag, but many pin enthusiasts appreciate their durability and glossy finish.
In contrast, if you want your employee uniform/logo/service award pins to have that extra "wow" factor, investing in hard enamel pins, despite being more expensive, could be worth considering for their perceived value among recipients.
Considering the cost of hard and soft enamel pins, it is important to understand their differences before making a decision. By weighing the pros and cons of both options, you can select a cost-effective solution.
Choosing Between Hard And Soft Enamel Pins
The choice between hard and soft enamel pins boils down to personal preference. It's essential for pin designers/artists to talk with experts before settling on one process over another because sometimes art requirements force the use of either option exclusively without any flexibility available, making an informed decision a crucial part of overall project success.
- Factors affecting the decision-making process
- Importance of understanding differences advantages/disadvantages
FAQs in Relation to Hard Enamel vs Soft Enamel Pins
Is Hard Enamel More Expensive Than Soft Enamel?
Yes, hard enamel pins are generally more expensive than soft enamel pins. This is due to the additional labor and materials required for creating a smooth, polished surface on hard enamel pins. However, they offer greater durability and a glossy finish that many collectors find appealing.
What Is a Hard Soft Enamel Pin?
A "hard soft" enamel pin does not exist as it combines two different types of enameling processes. Enamel pins can either be classified as 'hard' or 'soft.' Hard enamel pins have a smooth, polished surface with increased durability while soft enamel pins have raised metal lines separating colors and offer an affordable option for customization.
What Material Is Best for Enamel Pins?
The most common material used in making both hard and soft enamel pins is zinc alloy or iron. Zinc alloy provides better detail retention during the die-struck process but may cost slightly more compared to iron which offers affordability without sacrificing quality.
Difference Between Enamel Pins & Regular Pins
Enamel Pins: Made from metal (zinc alloy or iron) with colored enamel paint filling recessed areas. Regular Pins: Can be made from various materials like plastic or wood without any paint-filled cavities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing between hard enamel and soft enamel pins depends on your design needs, preferences, and budget. Soft enamel pins are affordable and versatile with unique textures resulting from the filling process. On the other hand, hard enamel pins are durable with a glossy finish due to the baking and polishing steps.
When making a choice about which pin to utilize for your venture, it is essential to thoroughly consider your needs. Consulting experts can also help you make an informed decision that meets your goals.
If you're looking for high-quality custom-made hard or soft enamel pins in New Zealand at competitive prices, check out our collection of Enamel Pins. We offer different styles of lapel pins suitable for any occasion or purpose.