Soft Enamel vs. Hard Enamel - How to Know Which to Choose

Custom pins are a fascinating medium for artistic expression, because there are so many ways that they can be made unique. Not only can they come in every shape and size imaginable (though most are in the 1-2” range), they can be created with a limitless number of plating, color, finish, coating, add-on and display combinations, making every piece an exceptional work of art. Two of the most popular methods of creating a custom pin design include soft enamel and hard enamel. What are the differences between the two, and why is making the right choice for your special project so important?

Enamel Explained

If you’re new to the custom pin universe, the number of decisions to make regarding your unique piece can be overwhelming. Besides ideas around size and shape, some of the first and most important concepts to consider revolve around color and the finished outcome. Are you interested in a textured finish? Special metal colors? Capturing extensive detail? In using multiple colors, layering, or having a dimensional effect? Expectations for the completed project will dictate the design and production processes, and that often starts with choosing soft or hard enamel as a medium. In general, you can expect hard enamel pins to be durable with a flat and smooth, whereas soft enamel pins will have a vintage feel with raised metal edges throughout the surface.

Hard Enamel Collections

If the design you have in mind is clean and uncomplicated, hard enamel can be an excellent choice for your custom pin design. Hard enamel pins are made by filling recessed, segmented areas with enamel several times, and then heating them at high temperatures to create a durable and scratch resistant surface. The pins are then ground and polished to ensure that the metal edges are at the same “level” as the enamel so they’re completely flat and smooth. These griding techniques make certain metal finishes unavailable, so think standard silver or gold plating for the outcome. One added option available with hard enamel only is silk screen printing, which gives you the ability to apply details that are too small to capture with enamel.

Soft Enamel Selections

If you’re looking to create a piece that feels like an “old school” or vintage style pin, soft enamel will be the way to go. Because enamel is applied only once, this production style has a textured look with raised metal edges. It’s also possible to incorporate more intricate design details, and to have a variety of metal plating types, including rainbow, black, and custom colors. Also, because there is less enamel in the production process, these pins are typically a less expensive option to have made.

For Out of This World Design, Choose Galaxy Design Squad

If you’re not only looking for the most exceptional custom pin designs but also an extraordinary customer service experience, look no further than Galaxy Design Squad for your next custom pin or coin project. With a passion for perfection and the industry experience to make each vision a reality, we’re dedicated to helping our customers choose exactly which elements are needed to ensure every prized piece has the WOW! Factor they’re looking for. Contact Galaxy Design Squad today!