Enamel pin badges have been around a lot longer than you may realize. Although they decorate the lapels, backpacks, and denim jackets of millions across the globe, there aren’t that many of us that actually know how they’re made. It’s an interesting process with a history that goes back hundreds of years, and we think you should know about it!
In this short guide, we’ll take you through the entire history of enamel badges and the process of their creation in modern times. Things have changed over the years, so we have a lot to cover!
How it All Began
These days, custom pins are made with enamel paint, which is solvent-based and glass-free. This paint is unique in that, once it dries, it forms a glass-like shell that is both tough and shiny. It’s easy to see why this is a popular option for pin designs, but this isn’t what was always used.
Ancient Egyptian artisans and Mesopotamians utilized Filigree as far back as 1800 BC. Filigree is the process of soldering pieces of wire together to create artistic motifs. This work influenced the creation of die lines to separate colors when designing intricate pins that we’re accustomed to today. Ancient Greeks and Cypriots chose to use vitreous enamel, a practice still used today, for their enamel coating.
However, despite this rich history, the very first enamel badges and pins were created in China roughly between 1271 and 1368 AD. The artistry featured in these original pins is hard to emulate, even today, but their legacy inspires designers across the globe.
How Did They Become Popular in the Modern Age?
A mixture of military endorsement and powerful advertising turned custom pins into the design trend they are today. These pins were attached to uniforms to identify and honor specific personnel. They were used to celebrate service and show a soldier’s pledge of allegiance to their regiment or country.
This trend then moved past the military and toward the broader public through advertising – but we aren’t talking about television. This trend began as early as the 20th century, when businesses would use custom pins to flaunt their logo and promote their wares. For the first time, advertising could be achieved wordlessly through image alone.
The Modern Process
Creating custom pins is still an impressive process, though much of it is automated through specialized machinery instead of being crafted by hand. Still, preparing the metal die of a singular design can take up to several days, and that’s before you start to fill the recessed areas with enamel or fire the pin in a kiln. It’s an intricate process that yields remarkable results, especially given the miniature size of the pin!
From Advertising to Fashion-Staple
The custom pin has changed phenomenally over the centuries. What was once used to denote military status solely is now used to unite communities, promote movements, or decorate your favorite clothing. However you use your pin, it’s exciting to know that such a small design continues to hold such historical and cultural significance!
