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Soft Enamel vs Hard Enamel Pins: What’s the Difference?
Ever held an enamel pin and thought, “Why does this one feel different?”
Same size. Same shape. Totally different vibe.
That’s usually the difference between ‘soft enamel’ and ‘hard enamel’. And if you’re planning to order custom enamel pins, this choice matters the most. More than most people realize. It affects cost. Feel. Look. And how people react when they wear it.
We will break it down for you without overcomplicating things.
Let’s Understand First, What Are Enamel Pins?
Enamel pins are small metal pins filled with colored enamel. They’re used for merch, branding, events, clubs, teams, and sometimes just for fun. People collect them. Trade them. Stick them on jackets, backpacks, hats.
They last. That’s the appeal.
But not all enamel pins are made the same. The finish changes everything.
What Are Soft Enamel Pins?
Soft enamel pins have recessed enamel. Meaning the colored areas sit lower than the metal outlines. You can feel the lines when you run your finger over the pin.
That texture? That’s the giveaway.
How Soft Enamel Pins Are Made
The metal base is stamped first. Then enamel paint fills the recessed areas. After that, it gets baked to set the colors. Some designs add epoxy coating for shine and protection, but not always.
It’s a simpler process. Faster too.
Why People Choose Soft Enamel Pins
Soft enamel works great when you want texture and bold outlines. It has that classic pin look people recognize instantly.
Pros
- More affordable
- Works well with detailed line art
- Textured feel people like
- Faster production time
Cons
- Surface isn’t completely smooth
- Can collect dirt if not coated
- Slightly less “premium” feel
Soft enamel custom enamel pins are popular for promotions, events, giveaways, and merch drops where volume matters. Bands love them. Startups too. You get a lot of personality without a high price tag.
What Are Hard Enamel Pins?
Hard enamel pins feel smooth. Flat. Almost like glass.
The enamel is filled to the same level as the metal lines, then polished down. That polishing step makes a big difference.
How Hard Enamel Pins Are Made
After stamping, enamel fills each section multiple times. Then it gets fired and polished until the surface is even. It takes longer. More labor. More patience.
That’s why they cost more.
Why Brands Go With Hard Enamel
Hard enamel pins feel premium. Clean. Minimal. They work well for logos, icons, and designs that need a sleek finish.
Pros
- Smooth, polished surface
- High-end look and feel
- Very durable
- Easier to clean
Cons
- More expensive
- Less texture
- Longer production time
Hard enamel custom enamel pins are often used for corporate branding, luxury merch, or collector pieces. When someone picks one up, it feels solid. Intentional.
Visual Difference: Side by Side
If you put them next to each other, you’ll notice it fast.
Soft enamel shows raised metal lines. Hard enamel looks flat and glossy. One feels handmade. The other feels refined.
Neither is better. Just different.
Durability: Which One Lasts Longer?
Both last a long time if made properly. But hard enamel usually holds up better against scratches and daily wear.
Soft enamel can still last years. Especially with epoxy coating. Without it, the recessed areas might wear faster.
For heavy use, hard enamel wins. For occasional wear, both are fine.
Design Matters More Than You Think
Some designs just don’t work in hard enamel. Fine lines can disappear. Tiny details get lost during polishing.
Soft enamel handles detail better. It keeps sharp edges and thin lines visible.
This is where working with someone experienced helps. At Quality Patches, we usually review the design first before recommending soft or hard enamel. Saves time. Saves money. Avoids disappointment.
Cost Differences (Short and Honest)
Soft enamel costs less. Period.
Hard enamel costs more because it takes longer and requires extra steps.
If you’re ordering in bulk or testing a design, soft enamel makes sense. If you want something premium that feels collectible, hard enamel might be worth it.
Most people ordering custom enamel pins choose based on budget first, then finish.
Which One Is Better for Merch?
Depends on the merch.
- Streetwear brands lean soft enamel
- Corporate gifts lean hard enamel
- Events lean soft enamel
- Collector pins lean hard enamel
There’s no rule. Just patterns.
Attachment Options Matter Too
Don’t overlook this part.
Rubber clutches feel casual. Butterfly clutches feel traditional. Locking backs feel secure and premium.
Your enamel choice plus backing choice defines the full experience.
Common Mistakes People Make
One big mistake is choosing hard enamel for very detailed artwork. Another is choosing soft enamel without epoxy for daily-use pins.
Also, skipping samples. Always check a sample. Always.
Why Quality Matters (Seriously)
Cheap pins exist. And they show.
Uneven enamel. Weak metal. Pins bending after a week. Not a good look.
Quality Patches focuses on clean fills, strong plating, and solid backing. It’s the difference between a pin people keep and one they forget in a drawer.
When brands order custom enamel pins from us, they usually come back. That says enough.
FAQs
Which enamel type is better for detailed artwork?
Soft enamel handles detail better. Thin lines stay sharp.
Do hard enamel pins scratch easily?
They’re actually more resistant to scratches than soft enamel.
Can I add epoxy to soft enamel pins?
Yes, and it helps with durability and shine.
Are hard enamel pins heavier?
Slightly, but not enough to notice much.
Which enamel is better for first-time orders?
Most first orders go with soft enamel. It’s flexible and cost-friendly.
Wrap up!
Soft enamel and hard enamel both have their place. One isn’t better. It’s about what fits your design, your budget, and your goal.
If you want texture and bold lines, go soft. If you want smooth and polished, go hard.
And if you’re not sure, that’s fine too. Most people aren’t at first.
That’s where Quality Patches comes in. We help you figure it out before production starts. Less guessing. Better results. Pins people actually want to wear.
Because good custom enamel pins don’t just look nice. They feel right.