Skip to content 
Have you ever thought about creating your own enamel pins but were deterred by the price? Many people have found themselves asking, “Why are enamel pins so expensive?” only to eventually abandon or modify their plans. Yet, you also see plenty of people successfully ordering custom enamel pins at reasonable prices. Naturally, you might then wonder, “How much does it really cost to make enamel pins?”
This post will dive deep into the 13 factors that determine the cost of enamel pins, helping you navigate through the pricing maze and ensure you get the best value in your upcoming purchase.
How much does it cost to make enamel pins
Typically, enamel pins come with a reasonable price tag. But when it comes to custom pins, the cost is determined by numerous factors.
How much does it cost to make enamel pins? The paragraph below gives you a comprehensive overview of enamel pin pricing, which will help you make an informed decision before ordering.
1. The Type
To order enamel pins, you need to consider what type of pin to get manufactured first. It will determine the look of your pins.
The cost to make enamel pins is heavily influenced by the type of pin you decide to get. For example, Hard enamel pins require more resources and cost to produce than their softer counterparts, making them a more expensive option overall.
Below are a few of the top selections of enamel pins and their respective prices:
a. Hard enamel pins are pricier than other types of enamel pins but are well worth it for the increased durability and glossy look. These pins usually start at around $5 each and can last longer than other types.
b. Soft enamel pins provide a unique look at an affordable price point. They are made with metal and hand-painted, giving them a textured finish that sets them apart from other types of pins. You can often find them for as low as $1 or $2.
c. Die-struck lapel pins can range from $2 to $3 each. If you want to add features such as antique plating, synthetic gems, edge numbering or a packaging option, that would increase the price.
d. Offset Printed Lapel Pins start at around $2- $3 each. If you need gold plating, a plate setup fee is needed.
e. Silk-screen lapel pins will cost $2- $3 per if you order about 100. For more silk screen colors, you have to add a setup fee as well.
2. The metal base
Then, you need to consider the cost of materials, like the metal base. It can be one of the most important factors affecting the cost to make enamel pins.
The four metal bases used in creating enamel pins are iron, copper/brass, aluminum, and zinc alloy. Each metal has its own unique properties which makes it suitable for different types of pins.
Copper/Brass is known for its malleability and corrosion resistance, while the iron is strong and durable.
Zinc alloy is lightweight yet strong, making it perfect for intricate designs, while aluminum is lightweight but still provides a good amount of strength.
The choice of the metal base can make a huge difference in the quality of an enamel pin and how it looks when finished.
a. Iron is the most economical choice when it comes to metal fixtures, while brass and copper are the most expensive options.
b. When ordering in bulk, zinc alloy/aluminum is an economical option. However, when only purchasing a small amount, it can be quite expensive.
By understanding the properties of each metal base, you can make sure they choose the right one for your design needs.
3. Plating options
Factories have many plating choices and options to make your product stand out from the rest. Plating will add additional cost to per lapel pin.
4. The size
Depending on the size, the cost to make enamel pins can vary. The reason is that the size of the pin affects the amount of material needed to make it, as well as its complexity in design.
Generally speaking, custom enamel pins range from 0.75″ to 2″ – the latter is often referred to as large enamel pins.
Even though 2″ may not appear like a huge size, it looks quite substantial when you attach the pin to the lapel of your outfit. Whether formal or casual, the pin provides an aesthetic look.
When selecting the size of your enamel pin, it’s important to note that the size is length, meaning the longest dimension. Prices can increase if you choose the bigger size.
5. The quantity
The quantity also plays an important role in the final cost to make enamel pins. Placing large orders can benefit from discount prices, while smaller orders will result in a higher cost.
When you purchase in mass, the lower price will increase your profit margins and prove highly beneficial to your business. But you have to make sure the factory is reliable and quality is acceptable at first.
6. Pin thickness
Pin thickness is a crucial factor to decide the cost to make enamel pins. Depending on the application, thicker pins are more expensive than thinner pins due to their increased durability and strength.
Furthermore, thicker pins can withstand heavier loads and have better corrosion resistance. Therefore, it is important to consider the thickness of the pin, as well as its cost to make enamel pins.
7. The complexity of the design
Enamel pins with extra colors and crafts can be a great way to add a unique touch to any outfit. But how much do they cost?
Depending on the complexity of the design, the type of enamel used, and the number of colors you want to add, enamel pin pricing with extra colors can vary significantly.
8. Pin design services
Enamel pin manufacturers offer pin designing services in addition to production. Not only can they help to create mock-up designs, but also they allow for free revisions and changes during the design process.
Even though some pin makers have designers to provide beautiful designs. They need the service to create custom pins without spending lots of time.
Some factories like Blythe will charge a design fee for this service, and they would let you have unlimited changes made to it without any additional cost.
9. Add-ons and Attachments
Add-ons and Attachments also affect the cost to make enamel pins.
Add-ons
There are many small additions like gems, chains, hinges, spinners, sliders, and danglers, along with the pin. They will enhance the look and feel of your pin. Gems are also an option for a bit of extra sparkle and bling. These can be slightly pricey apart from the chain.
Attachments
Accessorizing your pins with a butterfly clasp or rubber clutch is a great way to secure them and it won’t cost you anything. These are standard pieces that connect nicely and securely to the pins.
For those who prefer more advanced fasteners, you can always opt for the magnet back and deluxe clasp upgrades.
Magnet-mounted pins are very secure and use magnets to stay in place. The pins are priced at approximately $1 each, while the deluxe clasp comes with an additional cost of around 35 cents more. This special clasp provides a secure, locking grip for your items.
10. Mold or setup fee
The mold or setup cost is a key factor to consider.
Most factories do not sell a single custom pin due to the mold fee. If a single pin is ordered, the company has to charge the cost of mold/setup, at least $50.
No matter the size of your order, 100 pins, or 10,000 pins, the company will charge the same initial cost for mold to cover the cost to make enamel pins.
This info is being provided solely to improve your understanding. To make it easier to comprehend, some pin factories absorb the cost of mold in the pin prices, rather than charging you extra.
An easy way for businesses to save money is by ordering multiple designs at once. This allows them to get a reduced piece price on the second pin and only have to pay the mold cost plus a slight additional fee.
11. Shipping cost
The shipping cost or some handling cost is an integral element in the cost to make enamel pins.
Some companies keep the enamel pin prices lower and charge shipping, while others integrate their shipping fee into pin prices and provide free shipping.
No matter which option you choose, the pins should arrive at the same time.
Shipping costs may differ based on the size of your order and where you’re located.
If you’re in urgent need, you may have to pay extra for expedited shipping. That said, it can be worth it; this way you can get the goods or services you need in time.
12. Package
Custom pin packaging is an important part of users’ experiences. It gives your products a unique look and feels. It also helps them stand out from the competition.
When deciding on packaging for your product, you have various options to pick from: backer card, opp bag or box, and velvet hinged box.
Backer card
Packaging products with backer cards are a great marketing strategy as it allows for maximum visibility and brand recognition. Additionally, they can be hung up in stores, adding to their convenience.
For maximum efficiency, it is best to purchase large amounts of backer cards. This will ensure that you have enough for whatever project needs you may have.
Opp bag
To protect custom pins during transport and for more convenient distribution, they are packaged in individual opp bags or boxes. This helps to prevent scratches and ensures that your pins arrive safely.
Velvet box
Velvet boxes have a distinct, jewelry-like look and feel that you don’t find in boxes with a transparent top.
13. The factory you choose
It is important to do research and compare enamel pin prices from different vendors before deciding on a supplier for your custom pins.
Some manufacturers include a hidden fee in pin prices which means a higher cost to make enamel pins.
Depending on your needs and budget, you can find a variety of online stores that offer custom pins at competitive prices. You should research different vendors and their prices, to find the best pin factory option to make your custom pin.
How to Price Your Pins to bring in profits
Establishing a good price point will allow you to maximize profits without breaking the bank.
It is important to do research on market trends and consumer behaviors to determine what price range would be most profitable for your pins.
To make sure you set the best prices for your enamel pins., it’s important to research the competition and look at what other successful pin sellers have done.
By looking at their strategies and learning from their successes, you can create a successful pin business of your own.
Additionally, taking into consideration factors such as production costs, shipping costs, and other expenses will help you determine the most appropriate pricing model for your business.
With careful analysis, you can create a pricing strategy that will maximize profits and help you achieve success in the long run.
How do I make money with my pins?
Pin sales can be made in many ways, such as selling the pin designs online, at a craft fair, or even at the event you will be attending. There are also many ways to promote your business and make money from it, like giving away free pins as part of a promotion strategy or through social media marketing. !
This is the full explanation of what it takes to make enamel pins and how pricing is determined for them.
What are enamel pins and why are they important?
Enamel pins are an important part of the content marketing landscape. They are visual elements that can be used to promote content, products, and services.
Pins can be used to drive traffic to websites, increase brand awareness, and engage with customers. They also help create an emotional connection with customers by providing a visual representation of what is being promoted.
With the right strategy, pins can be a powerful tool for businesses to reach their target audience and drive conversions.
Bottom line
By carefully weighing all of the 13 important factors above and taking into account potential risks, you can make an informed decision and get the most value for your money when ordering pins.
Hope this article has addressed all your issues about the costs to make enamel pins. If you have any further questions or need more info, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us in the comments.
Thank you for taking the time to read this!
