Decorative pins can be made from several types of material, but enamel is one of the most popular options. Enamel pins have several uses – traditionally, they’re used on uniforms to signify rank, achievements, or unit affiliation. More recently, they’ve become popular trading and collectible items.
Enamel pins are made by baking layers of colored enamel into pre-shaped metal backs. Many pins have one or more metal posts to secure them to the fabric. However, the pin can no longer be used if the post or fastener fails. Here are a few ways to help keep pins in place.
1. Use Safety Pin Backs
Safety pin backs are great for keeping long or large pins from rotating or falling off. This type of backing locks in place and is unlikely to fall out of the fabric. However, safety pin backs can be tricky to use. Getting them to lay straight on the fabric can be cumbersome, and making adjustments means adding more holes to the fabric. They’re best for thick, durable fabrics.
2. Use Super Glue
Believe it or not,superglue can be an excellent option for fixing and securing pins. If the post breaks, add a small dap of super glue to the stud, reattach the broken post, and gently wipe away the excess glue. Once everything is dry, your pin will be good as new.
Super glue can also be used to hold a pin in place permanently. Once you’ve found the right placement, add a small drop of super glue to the backing and fasten it to the post. After it dries, the pin will stay in place forever.
3. Use Magnets
Magnets are a great idea for attaching pins without creating holes in the fabric. They’re great for protecting thin or delicate fabrics. Magnets are also easy to adjust, which makes them a favorite for jackets and uniforms. They can also be used with thicker materials if you have a strong magnet. They’re also a popular choice for nameplates in the workplace because they can be worn daily without damaging employees’ clothing.
4. Consider Multiple Pin Backs
Smaller pins often have a single post, but large, long pins can have several. Using multiple pin backs helps prevent pins from rotating or falling out. If one fastener fails, the other acts as a backup. One drawback of numerous pinbacks is that they create multiple holes in the fabric, so they’re best for thicker or more forgiving fabrics.
5. Store Them in a Safe Area
One of the best ways to prevent your pins from falling off is to prevent them from getting damaged. Some people prefer to leave pins in their clothing, especiallyfor outerwear like coats or formal jackets. However, this can lead to damaged posts or backings over time.
Posts can be bent or broken very easily. Certain backings can also break easily and can be hard to find once they fall off. Storing all your pins – with the backings attached – in one place is a great way to keep everything together.
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Which Type of Pin Backing Is Right for You?
There are many different backings; knowing which one to pick can be hard. Some of the most important factors to consider when choosing a backing are the fabric type and the size and weight of the pin. Here are all the different types of backings and the best ways to use them:
- Butterfly Clutch – These metal backers are circular and have two small tabs you must pinch to remove them. They’re considered a standard backing and are often used to secure ribbons and pins to military uniforms.
- Rubber Clutch – Rubber clutch backings are similar in size and shape to butterfly clutches, but their soft material can make them more comfortable for the wearer. They also fit more securely to the pin post.
- Deluxe Clutch – An upgraded version of the butterfly clutch, this clutch has a flatter profile and a brushed metal finish. They have a lower profile than other clutches, so pins wear flush to the fabric.
- Safety Pin – This backing is a traditional option for longer pins too large to be held in place by a post. They’re great for securing pins to thick or multi-layered fabrics.
- 2-Piece Magnet – This is a small backing with a small magnet attached and a matching one inside the fabric. Magnets are a good choice for delicate fabrics in which you don’t want to poke holes.
- Bar Magnet – These larger magnet backs are better for bigger or heavier pins. These magnets tend to be stronger and also work better with thicker fabrics.
- Bent Legs – This special type of backing has two bent metal prongs that attach pins to a button.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Can I Make My Enamel Pin More Secure?
There are several ways to ensure your pins are securely in place. Any rubber or magnet backing is some of the best options. Rubber is secure and comfortable, while magnets are great because they’re easy to adjust and don’t make holes.
Looking for Custom Enamel Pins? We Can Help!
Enamel pins are often used in uniforms, given as gifts, or collected and traded. Many companies give custom enamel pins to honor employees’ hard work and accomplishments. They can be very meaningful; unfortunately, they can also fall off fairly easily.
There are a lot of things you can do to help keep your pins in place. Secure backings, magnets, and even super glue can all help prevent them from falling off. It’s also a good idea to store the pin and backing together in a safe spot to prevent damage. Check out The/Studio forcustom enamel pins and several backing options.
