How much does it cost to make custom pins?

What are custom pins?

Let’s introduce pins first before we try to answer how much does it cost to make custom pins? Custom pins are small metal pins that can feature any design, logo, or illustration. They are often used to accessorize clothing, such as jean jackets and backpacks, or to show support for a cause or organization. For example, many people wear pink pins during October to support Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Others may make pins to show their pride for their favorite sports team. Some people also collect pins as a hobby. Pins can be sold somewhere around 10 CAD so pin production can be a reasonable full-time hassle.

Make a stand with custom pins

Type of pins

Custom pins come in a variety of styles, each with its unique benefits.

Soft Enamel Pins

Soft enamel pins are the most popular type of custom pins. They are made by die-struck brass and filled with enamel color paint. The result is a durable pin with a smooth surface and raised design details.

Hard Enamel Pins

Hard enamel pins are made with a similar process to soft enamel pins, but the enamel color is baked onto the metal surface for a higher quality finish. These pins are more expensive than soft enamel pins, but they have a beautiful shine that will last for years.

3D Mold Pins

3D mold pins are made by injecting molten metal into a mold to create a three-dimensional design. Intricate designs are common with these pins.

Offset Epoxy Pins

Offset epoxy pins are made with a printed graphic that is covered with a layer of clear epoxy. This protects the design and gives the pin a glossy finish.

Die Struck Pins

Die-struck pins are made by stamping a design into a metal sheet and then filling it with color paint. These pins have a classic look and feel, and they can be made in many colors.

Die-Cast Pins

Die cast pins are made by injecting molten metal into a mold to create a three-dimensional design. You can choose from a wide variety of colors.

Dome Pins

Dome pins are made by attaching a metal disk to the back of a pin. This creates a 3D effect and protects the design from scratches. Dome pins have a high-quality look and feel, and they are perfect for intricate designs.

How much does it cost to make custom pins? Factors that influence the cost.

Artwork

The artwork and design revisions are usually included in the final cost of the pins as most companies want to make your buying decisions easy. If the complexity of your art or design crosses a certain standard, you should count with a slight cost increase. Always check with your pin manufacturer company beforehand.

Quantity

The price per pin decreases as the order quantity increases. Most companies have a minimum order quantity requirement for custom pins because of the mold. The mold cost is the same whether you make one pin or 10,000 pins.

Therefore, it is more economical to produce a large number of pins at once. This results in a lower unit price for the customer.

The price breakpoint will vary depending on the company, but generally, the more pins you order, the lower the cost per pin will be.

Material or base metal

The type of metal used will also affect the cost of the pins. The most common types of metals used for pins are iron, brass, copper, and zinc alloys. Iron is the cheapest metal, while brass and copper are more expensive. Zinc alloy is the least expensive for large quantities but is more expensive for smaller quantities under 500.

Size

The size of the pin will also influence the price. Smaller pins are less expensive than larger pins. The reason is more material is needed to produce the custom pin. Also, the bigger the pin the thicker the pin needs to be so it will not bend. Most pin companies have standard equipment to handle up to 2-inch pins, but above that requires special equipment, more material and extra labor thus increasing the cost.

Thickness

The thickness of the pin does influence the cost of the pin. The thicker the pin, the higher the cost will be. This is because thicker pins require more material and labor to produce. If you are looking for a high-quality pin, you should.

Pin types

Pin types can greatly influence the final cost of a lapel pin. The processes involved in manufacturing, and the level of detail all contribute to the price.

In general, die-cast pins are the most expensive type of lapel pin due to the intricate manufacturing process and high level of detail.

Hard enamel pins are relatively expensive compared to soft enamel pins due to their increased durability.

Pin finish

The cost of plating is typically included in the price of the pin. However, some companies charge more for gold plating, as it is much more expensive than other types of plating. A dyed metal finish is a powder coating that can be done in any color, such as black, blue, green, or red.

Add ons

Pin add-ons can range from .15 to .35 a piece depending on the size and weight. Danglers and sliders are typically on the lower end while blinkie lights and spinners cost a bit more. Hinges and chains can be either, depending on the style.

Attachments

Most companies include the price of pin attachments in the final price of the pins. Most common are the butterfly clutch or military clutch. However, the more intricate and customized the design of the attachment, the pricier the attachments becomes.