Everything you need to know about Enamel Pins ✨
As a grown ass adult I can appreciate and understand that you have no bloody clue what enamel pins are about. And if I were to wipe the knowledge of them from my brain, I would be in the same basket as you.
But you're here because you're curious. That, or you're just really excited to read my super fun blog post 💅🏼.
No but seriously. You’ve likely come across enamel pins while adoringly browsing the website of your favourite artist and or while doomscrolling some social media explore page and thought to yourself ‘What are Enamel Pins?’ ‘What the fk do I do with these?’ and ‘Do I need really one’?
I can also confidently tell you that there is really no rhyme or reason to enamel pins and us artists simply make them because they are cute. That’s literally it - that, and they are one of the easiest things for us to make and share. They might be made of metal, but I do indeed want to squish them because anything miniature has my heart. But squishing them would be painful so I wouldn’t recommend doing that.
Either way, I am here to take you on a little walk through on everything I know about enamel pins. So that way, if you’re curious and looking for a reason to join the pin club, you have all the info at your disposal.
So first up...
Why are enamel pins a thing!?
At a glance, pins seem childish. I mean, in their purest form they are just cute little metal brooches or badges right? You’ve probably looked at them and thought ‘I literally have no use or need for this’. And as a grown woman with a mortgage and *responsibilities*, I can definitely relate and understand that. But there are more to pins than meets the eye, so let me help open your mind a little.
*queue getting a little emosh about metal badges*
If I were to get deep about it, I think pins are a form of self expression and help people connect with their inner child. Enamel Pins are also a statement. They help people feel ‘seen’ and help give them the confidence and strength to get them through personal challenges and tough times. From the person who proudly displays a pride flag on their denim jacket, to someone carrying a ‘strength’ potion bottle in their pocket while they battle an illness; the power of pins isn't to be underestimated and can unintentionally create a sense of belonging and comfort to those who wear them.
On top of that, enamel pins can be completely unserious too! Sometimes you find a pin that speaks to your niche interest or might be a funny inside joke. Whether you're a reader of spicy literature and find a pin that calls to your smut affiliation, or maybe you know someone who has a unhealthy obsession with hot sauce (me) or noodles, pins can just speak to your soul and bring a smile to the dial.
Pins are also a GREAT way to support artists, and that’s why we make them! Sometimes you might love an artist but you don’t necessarily want to hang their work in your home. That's where pins come in; they're cute, affordable and they’re discreet so they don’t need to be on display if you don’t want them to be. But ultimately? It's just cool to know you’re supporting someone's art.
All of this is fun to know, but the big question really is…
What do you do with enamel pins!?!
Ahh yes! The age old question. Come here my child, let me educate you on the magical ways of the enamel pin.
The most obvious answer: Wear them!
There are so many cute ways to wear your pins, and they might not be super obvious. Attach pins to things like...
- Backpacks
- Work or high vis vests
- Attach to back of Book Sleeves or Kindle & E-Reader Sleeves
- Work aprons or uniforms
- Work lanyards
- Denim jackets or denim overalls
- Tote bags
- Instrument straps
- Caps or hats
- Collars of jackets or coats
And if you don’t feel like wearing them? Display them!
Sometimes these things are for you to enjoy in your own space and you can easily display or store them at home or in the office.
Whether you have a dedicated space to cutesie things in your home or are limited for storage space, here are some ways you can display your pins.
- Corkoards
- Framed cork or fabric boards
- Pin Flags or embroidery hoops
- Display binders or storage containers
- On pillows
BEWARE! Remember to take caution and use your pins for good and not evil. Here are some cautionary tips.
- When wearing your pins, be careful of how many you wear or group together as they can be heavy when lots are grouped together.
- Make sure you use a strong surface or material otherwise the pins could damage delicate fabrics or not attach properly.
- Do not attach the pins in the same place repeatedly as it can damage the fabric. We recommend changing the placement or keeping them in the same place.
- Store your pins safely when not in use to save them from scratching and tarnishing.
And this is where it ends my friend!
Enamel Pins are fun; they are whatever you want them to be. Just because we’re grown adults, doesn't mean you should deny yourself from the fun and silly things in life. Sometimes things don’t have to have purpose; they can just make you happy and bring joy. And those things? Absolutely priceless.
You know you love me,
xoxo Quirky Girl
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And because this is my post, I’m going to shamelessly send you to my pin page here.
But in the spirit of sharing, I’m going to share some of my fave pin makers with you too. Enjoy!
Some of my favourite pin makers & artists
Share the love & share your pins!
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