Hard Enamel Pin Case Study

From Character Artwork to a Collector-Grade Enamel Pin

See how PixelToPin transformed detailed creator artwork into a polished custom hard enamel pin—preserving fine lines, accurate colors and premium finishing throughout production.

Fantasy elf sorceress hard enamel pin with gold plating
The Project

Project Overview

An independent creator approached PixelToPin with detailed character artwork and a clear goal: produce a premium enamel pin worthy of a collector-focused release.

Our production team reviewed the linework, color areas and special effects before adapting the artwork for manufacturing. The priority was to preserve the character’s expression and decorative details while creating a durable, smooth and visually balanced finished pin.

Fantasy elf sorceress enamel pin close-up with gold plating
Design Transformation

From Artwork to Finished Product

The original artwork was carefully adapted for enamel production without losing its visual identity.

Original Artwork
Original character artwork prepared for custom enamel pin production
Finished Pin
Finished hard enamel pin based on the original character artwork
Production Goals

Client Requirements

Preserve Fine Details

Maintain facial features, accessories and ornamental lines from the original artwork.

Accurate Pantone Colors

Match the approved color references as closely as the enamel process allows.

Premium Smooth Finish

Create a polished, flat hard enamel surface with clean color separation.

Secure Dual Clutches

Use two attachment points to prevent a larger pin from rotating during wear.

Our Approach

Recommended Materials & Process

Every production choice was made to balance artwork accuracy, durability and collector appeal.

01

Artwork Review

We refined minimum line thickness, separated enamel areas and identified details better suited to precision printing.

Custom enamel pin artwork review and production preparation
02

Hard Enamel Production

The brass base was stamped, enamel colors were filled and baked, then the surface was polished before gold plating.

Hard enamel pin production before polishing and plating
03

Printing & Final Inspection

Fine printed details and glitter accents were applied before checking color, metal lines, attachments and surface quality.

Quality inspection of a finished custom hard enamel pin
Technical Execution

Production Challenge & Solution

The Challenge

The artwork included very small facial features, thin decorative lines and subtle gradients that could not all be reproduced with enamel alone.

  • Tiny features risked filling with enamel
  • Thin metal lines needed greater strength
  • Gradients required a secondary process

Our Solution

We strengthened critical metal lines, simplified only the smallest enamel zones and applied selective screen printing after polishing.

  • Adjusted linework for clarity and durability
  • Used hard enamel for strong color blocks
  • Added screen print and glitter for fine effects
Final Outcome

Finished Result

Finished custom hard enamel pins with branded backing card

A Detailed, Retail-Ready Collector Pin

The finished pins combine clean gold metal lines, smooth hard enamel and carefully placed printed details. Two rubber clutches keep the pin stable, while the custom backing card prepares the product for retail display, gifting or collector releases.

The result stays faithful to the original artwork while meeting the practical requirements of repeatable production.

At a Glance

Product Specifications

Product TypeCustom Hard Enamel Pin
Size1.75 in / 44.5 mm
Base MaterialBrass
EnamelHard Enamel
PlatingPolished Gold
Special EffectsScreen Print + Glitter
Back AttachmentTwo Black Rubber Clutches
PackagingCustom Backing Card + Clear Poly Bag
Back of a custom enamel pin with two rubber clutches
Helpful Information

Frequently Asked Questions

Why was hard enamel selected for this design?

Hard enamel creates a smooth, polished and durable surface that suits detailed collector pins and premium retail products. Its flat finish also works well with selective printed details.

Can fine printed details be combined with hard enamel?

Yes. Screen printing or UV printing can reproduce very small details, gradients and facial features that are too fine for individual enamel areas.

Can this design be produced in other plating finishes?

Yes. Depending on the artwork, options may include silver, black nickel, rose gold, antique gold or other specialty finishes. We can recommend the best match before production.

Ready to Create Your Own?

Turn Your Artwork Into a Custom Product

Share your idea with our team and receive process recommendations, production guidance and a free custom quote.