Custom Enamel vs. Custom Lapel Pins: What’s the Difference?

Pins have become a popular way to express identity, recognize achievements, and promote brands. Whether you see them on jackets, bags, or uniforms, these small accessories carry big meaning. Two of the most common terms in the world of pins are custom enamel pins and custom lapel pins. Many people use them interchangeably, but are they really the same thing?

At Qiyi-Gifts, we often get questions from clients about the differences between enamel pins and lapel pins, and which option is right for their needs. To help clear the confusion, this article breaks down the similarities, differences, and ideal uses of both.

What Are Custom Enamel Pins?

Custom enamel pins are decorative metal pins filled with colored enamel paint to create vibrant designs. They are especially popular for promotional items, merchandise, and collectibles.

There are two main types of enamel pins:

• Soft Enamel Pins – Feature recessed enamel with raised metal lines for texture. Affordable and great for bold, colorful designs.

• Hard Enamel Pins – Polished smooth for a premium look and durability, ideal for corporate branding or high-quality merchandise.

Enamel pins are loved for their versatility in shapes, colors, and finishes, making them suitable for creative designs and eye-catching branding.

What Are Custom Lapel Pins?

Custom lapel pins are pins traditionally worn on the lapel of a jacket, though today they are worn on bags, hats, or uniforms as well. The term “lapel pin” is broader than enamel pins and includes different pin styles such as:

• Enamel Pins (both soft and hard enamel)

• Die-Struck Pins (without color, showcasing only the metal design)

• Printed Pins (used for detailed logos or photographs)

• 3D Molded Pins (with sculpted, dimensional designs)

In essence, enamel pins are one type of lapel pin, but not all lapel pins are enamel pins.

Key Differences Between Enamel Pins and Lapel Pins

While the terms overlap, here are some distinctions:

1. Scope of Definition

• Enamel Pins – A specific style of pin filled with enamel colors.

• Lapel Pins – A general category that includes enamel, die-struck, printed, and other types of pins.

2. Design Options

• Custom Enamel Pins allow for vibrant, colorful designs that pop visually.

• Custom Lapel Pins can be simple, elegant, or intricate, depending on the chosen style (colorful enamel, plain metal, or 3D mold).

3. Use Cases

• Enamel pins are often used for merchandise, fan collections, fashion, and promotions.

• Lapel pins are frequently used for formal recognition, corporate branding, and ceremonial occasions.

4. Finish and Appearance

• Enamel pins are glossy, colorful, and playful in style.

• Non-enamel lapel pins (such as die-struck) may have a more subtle, professional look.

When to Choose Custom Enamel Pins

Enamel pins are perfect if you want:

• Bright, eye-catching colors for your design

• Affordable promotional items for events or giveaways

• Creative merchandise for retail, artists, or fan communities

• Unique designs in custom shapes and sizes

For example, companies often use enamel pins for marketing campaigns or giveaways at trade shows, while schools and clubs may use them for fun, collectible items.

When to Choose Custom Lapel Pins

Lapel pins are the better option if you want:

• A formal, elegant recognition award

• Subtle branding for uniforms, employees, or volunteers

• Premium pins for executives, board members, or special occasions

• A variety of pin styles beyond enamel (such as die-struck or 3D molded)

Lapel pins are commonly seen at corporate ceremonies, academic award events, military recognition, and nonprofit fundraising campaigns.

Real-World Examples

• Custom Enamel Pins – A clothing brand designs colorful enamel pins featuring its mascot as part of its merchandise collection. Customers buy and trade them as trendy accessories.

• Custom Lapel Pins – A nonprofit organization creates gold-plated lapel pins without enamel to honor volunteers for years of service. These pins are worn proudly on jackets at formal events.

Why Qiyi-Gifts Is Your Trusted Partner

Whether you need custom enamel pins for a fun promotional campaign or custom lapel pins for professional recognition, Qiyi-Gifts has the expertise to bring your designs to life.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Diverse Options – From enamel to die-struck and 3D molded pins, we cover all lapel pin styles.

• No Minimum Orders – Perfect for both small groups and large-scale events.

• Affordable Prices – Cost-effective without compromising quality.

• Fast Turnaround – Quick production times to meet your deadlines.

• Expert Design Support – Free artwork assistance to refine your pin concept.

At Qiyi-Gifts, we don’t just manufacture pins—we help you create meaningful symbols that represent your brand, team, or cause.

Final Thoughts

While custom enamel pins and custom lapel pins share many similarities, they serve slightly different purposes. Enamel pins are vibrant, playful, and perfect for promotions or merchandise, while lapel pins encompass a broader range of styles, often suited for formal recognition and branding.

By understanding the differences, you can choose the option that best fits your event, campaign, or recognition program. And with Qiyi-Gifts as your trusted partner, you can be confident that your pins will be crafted with precision, quality, and creativity.