Can Your Design Work as a Lapel Pin?

If you already have a design, drawing, or logo, you may be wondering if it will translate into a lapel pin. Some artwork is simple, while others are more complex. Either way, Bella Forge can help. We’ll advise you on which type of pin works best and, if needed, simplify your design so it looks perfect in pin form.

Enamel Pins Work Best for Simple Designs

Hard and soft enamel pins use thin metal lines to separate solid colors. Because of this, they work best with artwork that has:

• Clear outlines
• Bold shapes
• Limited, flat colors

Tiny details and gradients usually don’t translate well into enamel. Here are the common types:

• Hard enamel: Smooth, polished finish with a premium feel.
• Soft enamel: Bright, textured look that is budget-friendly and great for bold color.

Printed Pins Handle Complex Artwork

Printed pins don’t rely on metal lines to hold color, so they can handle designs enamel pins can’t.

• UV printed pins: Best for logos or artwork with small text, thin lines, or full-color imagery. They’re also a good choice when you want extra detail, with raised 2D or even 3D effects possible.
• Offset printed pins: Ideal for photo-realistic designs, shading, gradients, or photographic detail.

Think About Size and Clarity

Most pins are small. If you can’t read or recognize your design at the size of a coin, it may need adjustments. Bella Forge reviews every design to ensure it’s production-ready. If you prefer a larger size, we’ll work with you to make it happen.

Final Takeaway

Yes — your design can work as a lapel pin. Simple artwork is perfect for enamel pins, while more detailed logos or images may be better suited for printed pins. Either way, Bella Forge will help you choose the right style and adapt your design so it looks just as good in your hand as it does on your screen.

Ready to turn your design into a pin? Start here

Can I Take My Enamel Pins on an Airplane?

For definitions of terms related to lapel pins, visit our Enamel Pin Glossary