Enamel Pin Backing Types: Butterfly, Rubber, Locking, Magnetic & More

Choosing an enamel pin backing is an important part of designing a custom pin. The attachment affects how the pin is worn, how it sits on the material, how easy it is to remove, and how the finished product will be used.

Common enamel pin backing types include butterfly clutches, rubber backs, locking backs, magnetic attachments, and screw-back systems. But there is no single backing that is right for every pin.

This guide compares the main enamel pin backing options and explains how to choose an attachment based on pin size, weight, fabric, wearing environment, security, cost, and intended use.

What Is an Enamel Pin Backing?

An enamel pin backing is the attachment system used on the reverse side of a pin.

For post-style enamel pins, the front piece usually has one or more posts that pass through the material being worn. A separate clutch or backing then holds the pin in position.

Other attachment systems, such as magnetic or screw-based designs, work differently.

When choosing a backing, consider both parts of the system:

• The attachment or clutch itself
• The number and position of posts or attachment points

Enamel Pin Backing Types Compared

1. Butterfly Clutch Backing

A butterfly clutch is a small metal attachment that slides onto a straight pin post.

The two side sections can be pressed to release the clutch from the post.

Consider a butterfly clutch when:

• You want a conventional post-and-clutch construction
• The design is relatively straightforward
• You need a compact metal backing
• The intended material can be pierced by the post

Do not evaluate the clutch by itself. The post length, post position, number of posts, and weight of the pin also affect how the product sits when worn.

2. Rubber Pin Backing

A rubber backing uses a flexible clutch instead of a metal butterfly clutch.

It slides onto the pin post and can provide a softer surface when handling the back of the pin.

Rubber backs may be considered when:

• You prefer a softer-touch backing
• Backing colour is part of the product presentation
• The pin uses a conventional post
• Easy removal and replacement are important

The suitability of a rubber back still depends on the pin construction, post, material, and intended use.

3. Locking Pin Backing

A locking pin back uses a mechanism designed to lock onto the pin post.

This can be considered when the project requires a different retention mechanism from a standard clutch.

Before choosing a locking back, check:

• Compatibility with the pin post
• Overall backing dimensions
• Added weight
• Ease of attachment and removal
• Additional cost
• How the pin will actually be worn

A locking back does not remove the need to position the post correctly.

4. Magnetic Pin Backing

Magnetic attachment systems use magnetic force rather than relying only on a conventional post and clutch.

One reason to consider a magnetic system is when you want to avoid piercing certain materials.

However, magnetic attachment suitability depends on factors such as:

• Pin weight
• Magnet configuration
• Material thickness
• Movement during wear
• Intended application
• Shipping or handling requirements

Because magnetic systems differ from standard post-based attachments, confirm the exact construction during the quotation stage.

5. Screw Backing

A screw backing uses a threaded connection rather than a conventional smooth post.

The fastener is screwed onto the compatible threaded post to hold the product in place.

This type of construction may be considered for specialised applications where a threaded attachment is preferred.

Before selecting it, consider:

• Product thickness and construction
• Available space behind the product
• How often it will be removed
• Thread compatibility
• Additional production requirements

6. One Post vs Two Posts

Backing type is only one part of the attachment decision.

You should also decide how many posts the design requires.

A larger pin does not automatically require two posts, and a small pin does not automatically require one.

Post placement should be reviewed against the actual shape, centre of mass, orientation, and intended wearing position.

Why Does Post Position Matter?

Even with the correct backing, poor post placement can affect how a pin sits on fabric.

For example, an asymmetrical design may rotate if the single post is not positioned appropriately.

For wide or horizontal artwork, two attachment points may help maintain orientation.

When reviewing a digital proof, check the reverse side as carefully as the front.

Which Enamel Pin Backing Should You Choose?

Instead of choosing by labels such as “standard,” “premium,” or “best,” start with the intended use.

Which Backing Works for Jackets, Bags and Hats?

The surface where the pin will be used should influence the attachment decision.

Jackets and Clothing

Consider fabric thickness, pin weight, comfort, and whether the material can be pierced.

Backpacks and Bags

Bags may experience more movement, friction, and contact with other surfaces than a display item. Consider the attachment and placement together.

Hats and Caps

Available space, curved surfaces, and material thickness can affect where the post is positioned and how the backing sits.

Display Boards

For pins intended mainly for collection or display, the attachment requirements may differ from pins that will be worn frequently.

Backing Options for Large or Heavy Pins

As pin size, weight, or shape changes, the attachment system may also need to change.

For a larger design, review:

• Total pin dimensions
• Weight
• Shape
• Centre of mass
• One-post vs two-post construction
• Post spacing
• Backing dimensions
• Intended material

Simply selecting a different clutch does not necessarily solve an orientation or weight issue. The complete attachment layout should be considered.

Does Pin Backing Affect Custom Enamel Pin Cost?

Yes. The attachment specification can affect the final project quotation.

The cost impact depends on:

• Backing type
• Number of posts
• Special attachment construction
• Quantity
• Pin dimensions
• Packaging requirements

Instead of assuming one backing is always the cheapest or most expensive, compare the actual quotation for your required construction.

Other specifications such as pin size, enamel process, plating, special effects, and packaging also influence total project cost.

For a wider pricing breakdown, read our Custom Enamel Pin Cost Guide .

Does Hard or Soft Enamel Change the Backing?

Hard enamel and soft enamel describe the front-side enamel construction and surface.

The backing decision is a separate specification.

Either enamel process may use different attachment options depending on:

• Pin dimensions
• Shape
• Weight
• Intended use
• Post layout
• Project requirements

If you are still deciding between the two enamel processes, see our Hard Enamel vs Soft Enamel Pins Guide .

What Should You Check on the Digital Proof?

Before approving production, do not check only the front artwork.

Review the back specification too:

• Number of posts
• Post position
• Backing type
• Back logo or engraving
• Overall orientation
• Any special attachment requirements

Common Enamel Pin Backing Mistakes

• Choosing a backing without considering where the pin will be worn
• Ignoring pin weight and overall dimensions
• Using one post without checking possible rotation
• Choosing two posts without reviewing their spacing
• Checking only the front artwork on the proof
• Assuming “premium” automatically means a better attachment for the project
• Ignoring backing cost when comparing quotations
• Changing the backing after the production specifications have already been approved

What Backing Information Should You Send for a Quote?

If you already know your preferred backing, include it with:

• Artwork
• Quantity
• Pin dimensions
• Intended use
• Preferred backing type
• Preferred number of posts, if known
• Packaging requirements
• Delivery destination

If you are unsure, send the artwork, planned size, and intended use first. The attachment layout can then be reviewed with the rest of the production specifications.

Final Thoughts

The right enamel pin backing depends on more than the appearance of the clutch.

Consider the complete attachment system: backing type, number of posts, post position, pin weight, shape, fabric, and how the finished product will actually be used.

For unusual, wide, or heavier designs, review the back layout during the digital proof stage rather than waiting until production is complete.