Did you know that the reason for wearing a Tudor bonnet worn by the Queen’s Guard is to hide the identity of the soldier from the crowd? Or how about the lapel pin’s modern-day origin in the Victorian era?
The lapel pin is a unique way of proudly displaying what your affiliation is, or what is most important to you. Making these pins can be as easy or as challenging as you want them to be. It all depends on what look or purpose you are going for.
Read on to learn everything you need to know about how to make lapel pins. Let’s get into it!
What Are Lapel Pins?
Lapel pins are a great way to show your support for a cause or organization. They can also be a great way to show your personality. You can also use them to promote a business or even a sports team.
For example, creating football pins in showing your team spirit. They come in all different designs and colors, so you can find the perfect one to match your outfit.
Furthermore, wearing lapel pins on your jacket, shirt, or even hat can be a great idea too. It’ll be a fantastic way to show support for your favorite team.
Brainstorm Your Design
What are you trying to communicate with your lapel pin? What image or symbol do you want to use? Once you have a general idea, you can start to flesh out the details and come up with a final design.
If you intend to promote an organization or business, it is essential that the design will match your brand. If you want to make your own pins, the first step is to brainstorm your design.
If you’re not sure where to start, there are plenty of resources online or you can work with a professional designer. The important thing is to get your ideas down on paper or in pixels so you can start to bring your lapel pin to life.
Decide on the Materials for Your Pins
When you are ready to create your own custom pins, you must decide on the materials to use. The most popular mediums are brass, bronze, and nickel. Other metals, such as aluminum and stainless steel, are also occasionally used.
After you have selected the metal, you must then decide on the finish. You can use enamel, plated, and embossed. Enamel pins have smooth polished surfaces and are available in different colors.
Additionally, plated pins are covered with a thin layer of metal, which can be either shiny or dull. Moreover, embossed finishes are raised and have a 3D effect. They are very durable and offer a unique look.
Make a Pin Mold
If you’re looking to make a pin mold for your pins, you’ll need a few supplies. For the mold itself, you’ll need something that can be cut into the shape you want. You’ll also need a material to make the mold out of, something that can be poured into the mold and will harden.
The first thing to do is to cut your mold out of the material you’re using. If you’re using a piece of cardboard, you can trace the shape you want onto it and then cut it out. If you’re using something else, like a piece of wood, you’ll need to use a saw to cut it to the right shape.
Melt the Metal
There’s really no difference between melting the metal for your lapel pins and simply melting the metal. The only distinction is the purpose for which the metal is being melted. In both cases, it is heated until it becomes liquid and can be molded into the desired shape.
The process of melting the metal for your lapel pins is actually quite simple. You just need to place it in a furnace and heat it to a very high temperature. However, it is important to be careful when handling hot metal.
Always use protective gear and take precautions to avoid burns.
Pour the Metal Into the Mold
This can be a bit tricky, but with a little practice, you should be able to do it with ease. Just keep in mind to be extra careful in pouring the metal into the mold.
You don’t want to spill it or get any on your skin.
Remove the Pin From the Mold
It is essential to remove the pin from the mold before the enamel cools. To do this, use a pair of tweezers to grab the pin and pull it out of the mold. If the pin is stuck, you can use a needle or a paperclip to help loosen it.
Be careful not to touch the hot enamel with your fingers. Once the pin is out of the mold, set it aside to cool.
Cut Out the Design and Add Finishing Touches
Lapel pins are often cut out of a design before they are made. This is done to simplify the manufacturing process and to allow for a more accurate and consistent product. Cutting out the design also allows for a more three-dimensional look to the final product.
There are a few final steps to take in order to ensure that your lapel pins are top quality. First, use a fine-tipped paintbrush to add any final details to the design. Be certain that all the lines are clean and neat.
You can use paint, glitter, beads, and other embellishments to make your lapel pin unique. Finally, attach a pin back and you’re ready to go!
A Guide on How to Make Lapel Pins
Lapel pins are a great way to show your personality and sophistication. They can be very simple or very intricate, and there are many different ways to make them.
Whether your interest lies in making DIY pins for your fashion statement or creating promotional pins for your business or organization. This guide will show you everything you need how to make lapel pins.
If you’re looking for a unique lapel pin, try making one yourself! So, what are you waiting for? Grab some supplies and get crafty today!
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