According to some research, about 40% of Americans say that they collect at least one thing.

One item that many people like to collect is trading pins. But did you know that there are different types of trading pins?

If you’re going to collect trading pins, you’ll want to know which type of trading pins you should invest in. Keep reading to discover the main types of trading pins.

Offset Printed Pins

When you are dealing with rare trading pins, you might find offset printed pins. These aren’t as common as soft enamel, but there are three advantages to these types of pins.

For one, you can make them quicker. Generally, they can be made in ten days or less. They also don’t cost as much.

Normally, these pins will cost less as well. They offer you more flexibility in the design as well. You don’t need different lines to separate out all the colors.

These pins are printed onto a white iron sheet metal. Then, the design is stamped on each individual pin.

There are different types of thickness available as well, ranging from .8mm to 1.2 mm. These pins also normally come with a thin layer of epoxy to protect the surface. However, the epoxy is normally clear.

Hard Enamel Pins

Hard enamel pins will give you that classic, colorful pin look, but they’re a little bit different than soft enamel pins. Some people also call them cloisonne pins or pole pins.

People often use these pins for corporate or event giveaways, sporting events, or political events. Because you can feel the ridges, it gives a more high-value feel as well.

These pins are created by taking a piece of colored enamel and melting and baking it together. This result is then put on top of a metal plate.

Because of this, you’ll be able to have a smooth surface in all kinds of different colors. The enamel is polished flat onto the pin’s surface, so you won’t have the texture of the soft enamel pins.

However, these pins also come in all kinds of different colors. They usually cost more than soft enamel pins, but they’re still relatively cheap.

You can find some hard enamel pins at www.baseballtradingpins.net.

Soft Enamel Pins

On the other hand, soft enamel pins are one of the most common types of enamel pins. They’re created when you pour soft enamel between different metal lines.

A soft enamel pin is plated with metal die lines. You’ll be able to have all kinds of different colors added to the open areas of the design.

You’ll also get a classic pin look with this type of pin. You might notice that there are dips or grooves between the enamel. This will give the pin more detail and texture.

Because these are so common and easy to make, they’re also one of the most inexpensive types of pins to make or order.

If you’re into Disney pin trading, these pins are mostly made of soft enamel. They’re very popular at the Disney theme parks, but many people are trading these pins online as well.

Disney pins come in all different styles, but there are many colors and themes to choose from as well. In general, many people will collect all types of pins from their favorite movies or characters.

3D Mold Pins

3D mold pins are sometimes referred to as die-cast pins. It’s a custom pin that you can make using hard enamel.

Sometimes people will use these for promotional giveaways at ceremonies because this is one of the more elegant pins.

These pins don’t usually have color, and they have different visuals and tactile feelings as well. Some popular finishes you can get include polished, antiqued, and matte.

For metals, you’ll normally find them made from nickel, gold, copper, or bronze.

Die Struck Pins

Die-struck pins are pins that are made using a raised and recessed metal to bring out the design. The look and design process is similar to making a custom coin.

You’ll have to create a mold and then stamp that design right onto the metal. This will help to bring the design to life in the texture rather than using the enamel and color. However, you can still add enamel to a die-struck pin.

These pins are great for any intricate or classic design. You should do this if you don’t have any color on your design.

These monochromatic pins are sophisticated and look great as lapel pins as well. However, many people use them as awards, commemorative, or logo pins.

Even though there’s not much color, there are still many ways that you can customize this through the finishes.

They’re also one of the most affordable types of pins that you can get.

Offset Epoxy

Offset epoxy pins are printed onto a clear epoxy glaze on top of your original design.

To create this, you’ll get a printed pin with your exact design, including the image, logo, and colors. This pin will then have a layer of clear epoxy coated on top of it.

These pins are normally more durable than a generic printed pin as well due to the layer of epoxy.

Discover More About the Different Types of Trading Pins

These are only a few different types of trading pins, but there are many other types out there.

We know that trading and collecting these pins can be overwhelming for a beginner, but you don’t have to figure it out all on your own.

If you’re interested in more unique content like this, check out our website!