From the perspective of a 20-year-old metal crafts manufacturing factory, a small enamel badge is much more than a simple metal piece. It is the carrier of brand story, a symbol of identity, and the result of the precise combination of design, materials and craftsmanship. At SplendidCraft, we understand the importance of custom badges for business, event or brand promotion. In this article, we’ll delve into the “art” and “science” behind custom metal enamel badge making to help you make the most informed purchasing decision.
- Understand the essence of "enamel": the difference between hard enamel (Hard Enamel) and soft enamel (Soft Enamel)
When customizing a metal enamel badge, the first core choice you have to face is: hard enamel (also known as imitation cloisonné) or soft enamel. The two processes have significant differences in look, feel, durability, and cost.
- Hard Enamel: a time-precipitated classic
The technical term for hard enamel craftsmanship is the "cloisonné effect". The production process is to punch out the dividing lines and grooves on the metal base tire, then fill the grooves with natural mineral color powder and water-based glaze, and bake them at a high temperature of more than 800 degrees Celsius.
Features: The enamel surface is flush with the metal frame, as smooth as a mirror. The color saturation is high, the gloss is strong, and it is extremely wear-resistant. This kind of craftsmanship is suitable for occasions where high-end feel, durability and collectible value are pursued, such as company anniversary badges, high-level awards, military or government unit badges, etc. However, due to high-temperature firing and multiple polishing processes, the production cycle of hard enamel is long and the cost is relatively high. Custom Hard Enamel Event Pins: A Real Breakdown of Quality and Cost.
2.SoftEnamel: a flexible and modern choice
Soft enamel is currently the most widely used process. It fills the stamped metal base with liquid color paste (also called baking paint), and then air-dries naturally or bakes and solidifies at low temperature. Finally, a layer of transparent protective resin (Epoxy) is usually applied to the surface.
Features: The enamel-filled area is lower than the raised metal lines, forming a clear concave and convex three-dimensional feeling. The wide range of color options accommodates more complex gradients and details. This process is suitable for brand activities, exhibition souvenirs, cartoon animation peripherals, etc. that are budget-sensitive, quickly updated in design, and pursue fashion and three-dimensional effects. The production process of soft enamel is relatively simple, the production speed is fast, and it has good cost-effectiveness. Provide you with a complete guide to corporate custom soft enamel brooches.
- Substrate and electroplating: the “skin” and “skeleton” of metal badges
The base material ("skeleton") and plating layer ("skin") of the badge directly determine the badge's weight, texture and rust-proof ability.
- Selection of core substrate
In the B2B field, we most often use zinc alloy and brass (or copper) as badge base materials.
Brass/Copper: For designs that pursue the ultimate in detail and fine lines. It is easy to stamp and can carry thinner metal dividing lines. It is the first choice for hard enamel craftsmanship.
Zinc alloy: suitable for designs that are large or irregular in shape and require high relief three-dimensional effects. Formed by die casting, it is cost-effective, but the detail is slightly less expressive than brass.
- Electroplating treatment: adjust the overall style
Electroplating is not only for aesthetics, but also to protect the metal from oxidation. Common electroplating effects include:
Bright series: real gold, imitation gold, nickel (silver), bringing high-gloss reflection effect, making it look luxurious. Matte/frosted series: matte gold, matte nickel, and bronze, which can effectively reduce metal reflection and add a retro feel and a high-end restrained texture. Two-color electroplating: Combining two electroplating colors (such as bright gold and bright nickel) on one badge to create a richer sense of layering and design.
- The value of customization: How to communicate effectively with your manufacturer?
In SplendidCraft's 20 years of experience, we've found that the most successful custom projects are based on efficient, professional communication. Purchasers should clearly provide the following key information when making inquiries:
Design artwork: preferably vector graphics (AI or PDF format), clearly marked with PantoneSolidCoated. This is the only standard that guarantees color accuracy. Size and Thickness: Specify the diameter or length and width, as well as the thickness requirements for the badge. Craftsmanship and Quantity: Clear choice of hard or soft enamel. The production quantity directly affects the unit price. Generally, the larger the quantity, the lower the unit price. Accessory requirements: butterfly buckles, safety pins, magnets, etc. Different occasions require different wearing methods.
- Decision Summary: SplendidCraft’s professional advice
Customizing badges is a job that requires experience and expertise. As your long-term partner, SplendidCraft provides value not just in manufacturing, but in process consulting based on 20 years of industry experience.
If you are pursuing high-end, durability and collectible value, your decision-making weight should lean towards the hard enamel process, with a brass/copper base material and heavy matte or bright electroplating. The finished product has the characteristics of smooth surface, wear-resistant, and weighty feel.
If you pay more attention to cost-effectiveness, three-dimensional visual effects and rapid iteration, we recommend choosing the soft enamel process, which can be matched with zinc alloy substrates, use bright series electroplating and add a transparent resin protective layer. The finished product is characterized by obvious three-dimensional concave and convex, bright colors and high cost-effectiveness.
Our goal is to ensure that your design intentions are perfectly transformed into exquisite physical badges through the most suitable metal craftsmanship, adding luster to your brand. Taking the time to understand these basics before launching your next badge project will significantly improve your procurement efficiency and the quality of your final product. We look forward to working with you to turn your ideas into sparkling reality.
Thank you for watching, and we hope it can help resolve the issues you are facing.
Founded in 2013, Splendidcraft has grown into one of the world’s largest manufacturer and supplier of custom metal promotional products. With over a decade of expertise, we are proud to serve clients across the globe with high-quality, fully customizable items that combine craftsmanship, creativity, and reliability.
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