5 tips for choosing lapel pins
March 8, 2024

5 Tips for Choosing a Custom Lapel Pin

Are you looking for the perfect custom lapel pins? Here's a brief overview of choosing the most suitable option for your needs.

Madeleine Albright is known for being the first woman to serve as Secretary of State and for her time as a US Ambassador. However, what you may not know is that this woman uniquely conveyed her political messages.  She would wear various lapel pins that visually expressed her message. Years later her pins became part of a museum exhibit and her story was told in a book called, Read My Pins.

Likewise, your fashion choices tell your story and a custom lapel pin can help add to it. However, before you start telling your story through customized lapel pins, make sure to read these tips! 

Watch our ultimate guide on the history and answering the most common questions people ask about Lapel Pins.

1. Know Your Lapel Pin Goals

Before diving into the world of custom lapel pins, it's essential to have a clear understanding of your goals. What do you hope to achieve with this pin? Are you looking to create a fashionable accessory that expresses your style? Or are you considering using lapel pins as a marketing tool for your business?

Knowing your goals will help narrow down the options and guide you toward making the right choices when it comes to the following:

If it's about personal expression, think about what symbols or images resonate with you and align with your personality. On the other hand, if it's for promotional purposes, consider how the pin can effectively represent and communicate your brand.

Who Will Wear the Pins? 

Understanding who will be wearing these lapel pins is crucial in determining their purpose. Will they be worn by employees at an event or conference?

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In this case, incorporating company colors or logos may be more appropriate. Conversely, if they're intended as gifts for customers or clients, opting for a design that embodies your brand values while appealing to a wider audience would be ideal.

Where Will These Pins Be Worn? 

Consider where these lapel pins will be worn. Will they be worn on suits during formal occasions or on casual attire during everyday outings?

This knowledge will affect decisions regarding size and style. A larger pin might make more of an impact at formal events whereas smaller ones could work better for everyday wear.

2. Limit Your Creativity on Your Lapel Pins

When it comes to designing a custom lapel pin, creativity is key. However, there is such a thing as too much creativity. While it's important to think outside the box and create something unique, you also need to consider the limitations and practicality of your design.

creativity use on lapel pins

Remember that simplicity can often make a bigger impact than complex designs. Opt for clean lines and minimalistic elements that can easily be recognized from afar. This will ensure that your message or logo stands out effectively without overwhelming the viewer.

3. Considerations for Material and Quality

Another important factor to consider is the material used and the overall quality of the pin. After all, you want your pin to be durable, long-lasting, and visually appealing. Here are some key considerations when it comes to material and quality:

Durability

The material you choose will determine how well your lapel pin stands up over time. Look for materials that are resistant to scratches, tarnishing, or fading.

Visual Appeal

The quality of your lapel pin should also reflect its purpose and represent your brand or organization effectively. Choose materials that offer a range of colors or finishes so you can create a design that pops! Consider options like soft enamel or hard enamel pins for added depth and texture.

Presentation

How your lapel pin feels in your hand is just as important as how it looks on clothing or accessories. Opt for high-quality materials that have weight to them without feeling too heavy.

Customization Options

Different metals offer different possibilities when it comes to customization features such as cutouts, raised metal areas, or even adding gemstones. Ensure that the manufacturer offers a wide range of customization options suitable for your needs.

4. Choose the Right Size and Shape Lapel Pin

Size and shape play a crucial role in making the right impression. Here are some tips to help you choose the right size and shape.

Consider the Purpose

Is it meant to be a subtle accessory or do you want it to make a bold statement? If you're going for something more understated, opt for smaller pins that won't overpower your outfit. On the other hand, if you want your pin to be noticed from afar, go for larger sizes that demand attention.

Another factor to consider is where you plan on wearing your lapel pin. If it's intended for professional occasions such as conferences or business meetings, stick with classic shapes like circles or squares that convey professionalism and sophistication.

However, if you're designing a lapel pin for personal use or casual events like parties or fundraisers, feel free to experiment with more unconventional shapes like stars or hearts.

Think about the design or logo that will be featured on your lapel pin. Certain shapes may complement certain designs better than others.

For example, round pins work well with circular logos while rectangular pins can showcase text or longer designs effectively. 

Be Practical

Be practical when selecting the size and shape of your custom lapel pin. Will it easily attach securely without damaging fabrics?

Is there enough space on the backside of the design for an attachment post? These small details can greatly impact how comfortable and functional your lapel pins are.

Find Harmony Between Elements

Don't forget about balance and proportionality when deciding on size and shape. Consider how they will look in relation to other accessories like ties or pocket squares if worn together.

5. Find a Reliable and Experienced Manufacturer

Finding a reliable and experienced manufacturer is crucial. You want to ensure that the pins you receive are of high quality and meet your specific requirements. Do your research. Look for manufacturers who have a good reputation in the industry and positive reviews from previous clients. 

Work With MetalPromo for Your Custom Lapel Pin 

Choosing a custom lapel pin may seem like a simple task, but it requires careful consideration and thought. By following these tips, you can ensure that you make the right decision for your needs.

MetalPromo offers competitive pricing for custom lapel pin products. Request a price quote and we'll be there every step of the custom lapel pin process.

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