Know the Difference: Soft Enamel vs. Hard Enamel Lapel Pins

5-minute read

The first decision you make when creating a custom lapel pin is whether you want soft enamel or hard enamel. It all comes down to personal preference, so it’s important to know the difference before getting started! With that in mind, here’s a breakdown of what makes soft enamel and hard enamel pins different!

What Are Soft Enamel Pins?

Soft enamel pins are the most popular style of lapel pin out there. The recessed areas of the artwork are filled with enamel paint, and the raised metal outline prevents different colors from mixing. The two levels create a specific texture, helping you feel the design as you run a thumb over the pin’s surface, and lend a certain amount of depth to the artwork. 

You’ll find soft enamel pins all over - they’re popular as promotional giveaways, collectibles, and fundraiser items. We also see them used as trading pins at trade shows and for sporting events. The key features to keep in mind when it comes to soft enamel pins include:

• • Classic Appearance: The layered design creates a sense of depth that other pins lack.
  • Bright Color: Colors are bold and bright, giving your artwork eye-catching appeal.
  • Versatile and Cost Effective: Soft enamel pins are the most affordable pin type, available in just about any shape and size, and are perfect for orders large and small.

What Are Hard Enamel Pins?

Hard enamel pins - also known as cloisonne pins - have jewelry-like quality thanks in part to their smooth, polished texture. The production process looks just about the same for soft and hard enamel pins, but with one crucial difference. The enamel paint on a soft enamel pin is added to the recessed areas of the design and the raised metal edges prevent the colors from mixing. But for a hard enamel pin, the recessed areas are overfilled with enamel paint and then the pins are polished until the paint and the raised metal edges are flush. The end result is a sleek, smooth finish. 

The formal quality of hard enamel pins makes them ideal for high-end designs that convey a sense of luxury or prestige. We often see them used at award ceremonies, corporate events, and other celebratory gatherings. The key features to keep in mind when it comes to hard enamel pins include:

• • Smooth, Polished Surface: A hard enamel pin will have a smooth, even surface because the enamel paint is overfilled in the recessed areas, then polished down to be level with the raised metal edges of the design.
  • Premium, Jewelry-Style Quality: There is an added level of care and craftsmanship required to produce the elegant appearance of hard enamel pins
  • Fewer Plating Options: Due to the high temperatures required to harden the enamel paints, and the process of polishing each pin by hand, some plating options are not compatible with hard enamel. 

Soft Enamel vs Hard Enamel: What’s the Difference?

Soft enamel pins have raised and recessed areas, whereas hard enamel pins have a smooth, even surface. One has a bold, textured appearance with depth, while the other has a sleek, jewelry-style finish. Choosing between the two is mostly a matter of personal preference. Depending on the design, one type might work better than the other. But no matter what route you take, you’re sure to create something absolutely incredible! 

Send us your ideas today, and ask for a soft enamel and hard enamel version to see which one works best for your design!