Custom Metal Pin Buttons Custom Logo Round Shaped Tin Button Pins for Gifts
- Generally, the materials used for badge are divided into PVC,acrylic (also known as organic glass),resin,LED badge,metal,magnesium aluminum alloy,stainless steel,dual color plate, etc.
- Common shapes of custom metal pin buttons:
Rectangles, bars, circles, ellipses, irregulars, squares, etc., can also be customized according to customer requirements.
- Common materials for custom metal pin buttons:
Metal materials include stainless steel, copper, titanium, zinc alloy, aluminum alloy, iron plate, etc;
Non metallic materials include acrylic, dual color board, aluminum plastic synthesis, PVC, plastic, spray painting film, etc.
Custom Metal Tin Buttons – Specifications & Descriptions
Custom tin buttons (also known as badge buttons or pin-back buttons) are lightweight, affordable, and highly customizable accessories used for promotions, events, retail, fashion, and awareness campaigns.
🛠️ Product Specifications of Custom Metal Pin Buttons
Specification | Details |
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Material | Tinplate (metal), iron, steel, or aluminum backing with Mylar top coating |
Common Sizes (Diameter) | Round: 25mm, 32mm, 44mm, 58mm, 75mm, 100mm (custom sizes available) |
Shape Options | Round (most common), square, oval, heart, rectangle |
Printing Method | CMYK full-color offset printing with protective Mylar film |
Surface Finish | Glossy (standard), matte, or soft-touch matte |
Back Side Styles | Pin-back (standard), magnetic back, clip-on, bottle opener, mirror, keyring |
Thickness | Varies by size, generally 3–5 mm |
Attachment Options | Safety pin, metal spring pin, magnet, clothing clip, mirror, bottle opener |
Eco-Friendly Options | Recycled tinplate or biodegradable paper face available |
Packaging | Bulk (OPP bags), individual polybag, or customized gift box/blister card |
MOQ | As low as 100 pcs (standard), 50 pcs possible for some sizes |
Production Time | 5–10 working days (depending on quantity and finish) |
🎨 Customization Features Of Custom Metal Pin Buttons
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Edge-to-edge printing in full color (no white border required)
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Personalized text, artwork, QR code, or photo on each button
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Double-layer design (e.g., layered pin + spinner top) optional
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Sequential numbering or variable data printing supported
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Custom finishes (e.g., matte, sparkle, holographic, metallic ink)
📦 Packaging Options of Custom Metal Pin Buttons
Type | Description |
---|---|
Bulk OPP Bag | Default packaging, economical for events and promos |
Individual Polybag | Great for retail or direct mail marketing |
Backing Card + Bag | Custom printed card behind each button in a clear bag |
Gift Box or Blister Pack | Premium option for collectibles or merchandise sales |
📌 Common Applications
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Promotional Giveaways
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Trade shows, conferences, exhibitions, company branding
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Event Souvenirs
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Concerts, festivals, weddings, fundraisers, school activities
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Political Campaigns
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Custom candidate badges, slogans, awareness campaigns
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Retail Merchandising
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Fashion pins, band logos, fan art buttons, collectible packs
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Social Movements
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Pride pins, cause badges, health awareness symbols
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Employee or Volunteer ID
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Fun, informal ID pins or role identifiers at events
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💡 Advantages of Custom Metal Pin Buttons
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Cost-effective for mass promotion
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Lightweight & portable – easy to ship or distribute
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Eye-catching – great visibility on bags, jackets, hats
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Fully customizable – shape, size, back style, finish
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Reusable & collectible – especially for fandoms and brands
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Durable – tinplate construction resists bending and damage
Printing Methods for Custom Metal Pin Buttons
Custom metal pin buttons rely on durable, high-resolution printing to showcase logos, artwork, messages, and branding. Below are the most commonly used printing techniques:
🖨️ 1. Offset Printing (CMYK Full Color)
Description:
Offset printing uses CMYK (cyan, magenta, yellow, black) ink layers to reproduce full-color images with rich detail. The design is printed on paper, which is then laminated with a protective Mylar film and pressed onto the metal shell.
Features:
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High resolution (300–600 dpi)
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Sharp image and color accuracy
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Cost-effective for large runs
Best For:
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Photo-based artwork
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Gradients, shadows, and detailed logos
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Marketing campaigns, event merch
Limitations:
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Not ideal for small orders (requires plate setup)
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Minor color variation across batches
🖨️ 2. Digital Printing (Inkjet or Laser)
Description:
Digital printing directly prints your design onto high-quality paper using inkjet or laser technology, followed by Mylar lamination. It’s a faster, plate-less alternative to offset.
Features:
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Quick turnaround
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Great for low to medium quantities
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No setup fee or plates required
Best For:
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Personalized or variable designs
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Small batch orders (50–500 pcs)
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Short-term promotional use
Limitations:
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Slightly lower color accuracy than offset for some tones
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Costlier per unit in large quantities
✨ 3. UV Printing (Optional Upgrade)
Description:
UV printing applies ink directly to the button surface and cures it instantly with UV light. Some high-end button manufacturers offer this for special textures or finishes.
Features:
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Sharp, glossy output with vibrant colors
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Supports raised textures or special inks
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Resistant to fading
Best For:
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Premium buttons
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Buttons with tactile or raised designs
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Short-run product branding
Limitations:
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Limited to flat designs
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May cost more than other methods
🌈 4. Silk Screen Printing (for Simple Spot Colors)
Description:
Silkscreening uses mesh stencils to apply solid color layers one at a time. Not commonly used for standard pin buttons but may be offered for flat enamel badge-style pins.
Features:
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Extremely vivid, flat spot colors
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Durable and scratch-resistant
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Great for simple logos with 1–3 colors
Best For:
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Vector-based logos
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Retro or flat design aesthetics
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Buttons with large, bold elements
Limitations:
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No gradients or photo images
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Labor-intensive for multiple colors
💡 5. Sublimation Printing (Less Common)
Description:
In sublimation, ink is heat-transferred into the coated surface of the substrate. This method is more often used on fabric or coated materials than on metal pin buttons.
Features:
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Vivid, photo-quality prints
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Permanent and fade-resistant
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Eco-friendly inks
Best For:
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Specialty buttons with fabric or polyester coating
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Niche or artistic button products
Limitations:
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Not widely used for standard tin buttons
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Requires special materials and coatings
🛡️ Finishing & Coating Options (Paired with Printing)
Coating Type | Description |
---|---|
Glossy Mylar Film | Standard finish – protects print, gives smooth shine |
Matte Laminate | Non-glare, premium feel – reduces fingerprint visibility |
Soft-Touch Film | Velvet-like texture – high-end appearance |
Glitter Film | Adds sparkle – great for youth or celebratory events |
Epoxy Dome | 3D gel dome – not typical for pin buttons, but eye-catching |
🧷 Comparison of all the printing methods of custom metal pin buttons
Method | Print Quality | Best For | MOQ Suitability | Finishing Options |
---|---|---|---|---|
Offset Printing | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Large runs, photo graphics | 500+ pcs | Glossy, matte, soft-touch |
Digital Printing | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Small runs, personalization | 50–500 pcs | Glossy, matte |
UV Printing | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Premium texture, raised ink | 100+ pcs | Gloss, 3D textures |
Screen Printing | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 1–3 color logos, bold design | 100+ pcs | Flat enamel-style look |
Sublimation | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Fabric/soft substrates | 100+ pcs | Fabric/flexible button coating |
CUSTOM METAL PIN BUTTONS – DETAILED APPLICATIONS
1. Corporate Branding & Promotion
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Trade Shows & Expos: Custom metal pin buttons with company logo or slogan distributed to visitors.
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Employee Identification: Stylish alternatives to plastic badges, often including job titles or departments.
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Giveaways & Merchandise: Part of welcome kits or customer loyalty programs.
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Brand Awareness Campaigns: Worn by staff or distributed during product launches.
2. Event Souvenirs
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Concerts & Festivals: Fans wear them as collectibles showcasing artists or event names.
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Weddings & Private Parties: Personalized with couple names, dates, or fun messages as keepsakes.
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Corporate Events & Anniversaries: Commemorative pins highlighting milestones.
3. Fundraising & Awareness Campaigns
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Nonprofits & NGOs: Promote causes like cancer awareness, environmental protection, or equality.
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Charity Events: Used to identify donors or volunteers.
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Crowdfunding Campaigns: Sent as thank-you gifts for small donors.
4. Political & Social Movements
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Election Campaigns: Candidates distribute them with slogans or party logos.
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Activism: Emblems of social justice or protest movements.
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Awareness Days: Symbols for autism, pride, mental health awareness, etc.
5. Education & Schools
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Student Clubs & Organizations: Show affiliation or membership.
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Graduation & Recognition: Celebrate achievements, top performers, or alumni pride.
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School Branding: Worn by faculty or students during school events.
6. Retail & Fashion
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Streetwear Accessories: Attached to hats, bags, or jackets as fashion statements.
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Boutique Merchandise: Sold with custom designs, pop culture themes, or art.
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Seasonal Collections: Limited-edition pins as part of holiday or seasonal fashion drops.
7. Entertainment & Pop Culture
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Fan Merchandise: Characters, shows, movies, or games featured in pin designs.
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Comic-Con & Fan Conventions: Exclusive pins for attendees or limited-run collaborations.
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Content Creators & Influencers: Sell pins of logos, catchphrases, or mascots.
8. Hospitality & Tourism
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Theme Parks & Resorts: Collectible sets or staff ID enhancements.
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Local Tourism Boards: Pins promoting cities, regions, or historical landmarks.
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Souvenir Shops: Custom metal pins as lightweight, memorable items for tourists.
9. Manufacturing & Industry
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Safety Recognition: Award pins for months/years without incidents.
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Certification Recognition: Badges for trained or certified staff.
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Production Milestones: Custom metal pin buttons to commemorate major accomplishments or records.
10. Military, Law Enforcement, and Government
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Rank or Unit Insignias: Distinctive custom shapes and finishes to signify hierarchy.
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Commemorative Uses: Honoring missions, services, or historical anniversaries.
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Civic Events & Parades: Pins distributed or worn during national or regional celebrations.
Comparison Table: Custom Metal Pin Buttons
Application | Recommended Material | Printing Method | Finish Options |
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Corporate Branding | Iron / Aluminum | Offset / Digital | Glossy / Matte / Epoxy dome |
Event Souvenirs | Tinplate / Aluminum | Digital / Sublimation | Full-color / UV Coated |
Fundraising & Awareness | Tinplate / Iron | CMYK Printing / Silkscreen | Epoxy / Anti-scratch varnish |
Political Campaigns | Tinplate / Aluminum | CMYK Digital | Gloss / Matte |
Education (Schools) | Iron / Stainless Steel | Sublimation / Silkscreen | Soft enamel / Clear epoxy |
Retail & Fashion | Stainless Steel / Zinc | Silkscreen / Offset | Custom shapes / Glitter / Soft enamel |
Pop Culture / Fan Art | Aluminum / Brass | CMYK / UV Printing | Neon / Glow-in-dark / Embossed |
Hospitality & Tourism | Aluminum / Tinplate | Offset / Digital | Clear coating / Die-cut shape |
Industrial Recognition | Brass / Iron | Engraved / Stamped | Hard enamel / Antique bronze/silver |
Military & Law Enforcement | Zinc alloy / Brass | Die-struck / Laser Etched | Antique plating / Sandblasting / 3D mold |
🖨️ Printing Methods Explained
Printing Method | Features |
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CMYK Digital Printing | Full-color, photo-quality, best for complex graphics/logos. |
Offset Printing | Sharp detail and color blending, used for mass production. |
Silkscreen Printing | Solid color areas, highly durable for flat and bold designs. |
Sublimation | Heat transfer, ideal for aluminum or white-coated metals. |
Laser Etching | For metallic logos/texts with a premium engraved effect. |
Die-struck (no color) | Metal-only designs with raised and recessed areas, classy and elegant. |
🎨 Finish Options & Effects
Finish Type | Description |
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Glossy | Shiny and smooth surface; enhances color vibrancy. |
Matte | Non-reflective and soft texture; sophisticated feel. |
Epoxy Dome | Clear bubble layer for protection and dimensional appearance. |
Soft Enamel | Recessed colored enamel fills with metal ridges; textured feel. |
Hard Enamel | Polished smooth surface with flush enamel; highly durable. |
Antique Finish | Vintage look with darker metal tones (bronze, silver, gold). |
Glow-in-the-Dark | Great for night events or quirky promotional items. |
Glitter / Neon Enamel | Adds sparkle or bright pop to specific areas; popular in fashion & pop culture. |
Example Estimate:
Let’s assume the following specs of custom metal pin buttons:
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Item: 58mm round custom metal pin buttons (full-color print, tinplate, epoxy dome)
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Quantity: 1,000 pcs
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Packaging: Individual polybags
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Shipping to: United States (by Air Express, e.g., DHL)
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Shipping Terms: EXW China
🏷️ 1. Product & Packaging Cost of Custom Metal Pin Buttons
Item | Unit Cost | Qty | Total Cost |
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58mm Pin Button (full color) | $0.28 | 1,000 | $280.00 |
Epoxy Dome | $0.08 | 1,000 | $80.00 |
Individual Polybag | $0.03 | 1,000 | $30.00 |
Subtotal (EXW) | $390.00 |
✈️ 2. Shipping Cost (DHL/FedEx Express)
Description | Estimate |
---|---|
Weight (approx. 18–20kg) | – |
DHL / FedEx Air (5–7 days) | $6.50–$8.00/kg |
Estimated Shipping Cost | $130.00–$160.00 |
🧾 3. Duties & Customs (USA Import)
Description | Rate Estimate | Amount |
---|---|---|
HS Code: 7326.90 (Metal Button Badge) | 2.8%–4.2% | $15–$25 |
Customs Clearance Fee (DHL) | Flat rate | ~$25–$35 |
Total Customs & Fees | $40–$60 |
💰 Estimated Landed Cost (to U.S.)
Category | Estimated Total |
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Product + Packaging | $390.00 |
Shipping (DHL Express) | $130–$160 |
Customs & Duties | $40–$60 |
Grand Total | $560–$610 USD |
Unit Landed Cost | $0.56–$0.61 USD/pc |
💡 Notes:
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Costs drop significantly per unit for higher quantities (5,000+ pcs) or if using sea freight.
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If you’re in EU, Canada, Australia, or other countries, the customs tax rate and clearance fees vary.
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For FBA shipping, additional labeling & palletizing might be needed.
Design Template Files (AI, PSD, PNG)
To help with accurate and print-ready designs, most factories offer standardized and custom metal pin buttons templates in the following sizes:
✅ Common Sizes & Template Files:
Size (Diameter) | Use Case | Files |
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25mm (1 inch) | Political, awareness pins | .ai , .psd , .png |
32mm (1.25 inch) | Retail giveaways, promos | .ai , .psd , .png |
44mm (1.75 inch) | Event merchandise | .ai , .psd , .png |
58mm (2.25 inch) | Fashion, branding pins | .ai , .psd , .png |
75mm (3 inch) | Large visuals, photos | .ai , .psd , .png |
📎 Template Includes:
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Safe Zone: Your logo/text must stay within this to avoid trimming.
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Bleed Area: Background colors/images should extend here to prevent white edges.
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Cut Line: Final size after trimming.
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Fold Line: Area where the edge folds behind the metal.
Let me know what size you want, and I can send a downloadable
.zip
with templates.
📦 Packaging & Shipping Options
📍 Standard Packaging Options:
Type | Description | Best For |
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Bulk Bagging | 100–500 pins per OPP bag | Large wholesale orders |
Individual Polybag | One pin per clear bag | Retail, events, giveaways |
Backer Card + Bag | Custom printed card with logo/messages in polybag | Premium branding/retail sale |
Tin Box / Velvet Box | For collectible or gift-level presentation | Collector’s edition, VIP gift |
🚚 Shipping Options:
Shipping Method | Time (est.) | Notes |
---|---|---|
Air Express (DHL/FedEx) | 5–8 days worldwide | Fastest, ideal for urgent promo events |
Air Cargo + Local Delivery | 10–15 days | Lower cost for medium-size batches |
Sea Freight | 20–35 days | Economical for bulk orders (5,000+ units) |
💡 Design Tips for Visibility & Collectability
✅ For Brand Visibility:
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Use bold colors, clean lines, and simple logos for instant recognition.
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Keep fonts large and legible—avoid overcrowding.
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Add website URL or social media handle subtly on edge.
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Match button colors to your brand palette or event theme.
✅ For Collectability:
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Number the designs (e.g., “1 of 5”) to build a collectible series.
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Include event names/dates to create sentimental value.
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Use unique shapes (square, oval, die-cut) beyond standard round.
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Offer limited edition pins with holographic, glitter, or glow-in-dark finishes.
🧾 Estimated Pricing Structures (EXW / FOB China)
Quantity | 25mm Tinplate (Full Color) | 58mm Tinplate (Full Color) | Add-on: Epoxy Dome |
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100 pcs | $0.38–$0.50/pc | $0.48–$0.65/pc | +$0.10–$0.15/pc |
500 pcs | $0.25–$0.35/pc | $0.35–$0.45/pc | +$0.08–$0.12/pc |
1,000 pcs | $0.18–$0.28/pc | $0.28–$0.38/pc | +$0.06–$0.10/pc |
5,000 pcs | $0.12–$0.18/pc | $0.22–$0.30/pc | +$0.05–$0.08/pc |
10,000 pcs+ | $0.09–$0.15/pc | $0.18–$0.26/pc | +$0.04–$0.06/pc |
Custom shapes, special plating (gold/silver), or backing cards will add $0.05–$0.30 per unit depending on complexity.
FAQ – Custom Metal Pin Buttons
1. What materials are used in custom metal pin buttons?
Custom metal pin buttons are typically made of:
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Tinplate or stainless steel backing for durability
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Glossy Mylar film on top to protect the printed design
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Paper insert printed in full color
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Pin or magnet backing based on your selection
Some premium options may include aluminum or recycled metal.
2. What sizes and shapes of custom metal pin buttons are available?
We offer a wide range of sizes and shapes for the custom metal pin buttons:
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Round sizes: 25mm, 32mm, 44mm, 58mm, 75mm, 100mm
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Other shapes: square, oval, rectangular, or heart-shaped
Custom sizing and die-cut options are also available upon request.
3. What type of printing is used on the buttons?
We use full-color CMYK offset printing or digital printing, depending on the quantity and artwork.
All buttons are finished with a protective Mylar coating that provides water and scratch resistance and ensures colors remain vibrant.
4. What backings can I choose from?
We offer various back styles to suit different uses:
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Standard pin-back (safety pin style)
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Magnet back (ideal for refrigerators or clothes without damage)
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Clothing clip (no puncture holes)
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Mirror, bottle opener, or keyring attachments (for multipurpose use)
5. Can I print unique designs on each button in the same order?
Yes! We support variable data printing, allowing each button to have a different:
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Name
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Image
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Number
This is ideal for events, team IDs, or personal branding.
6. What’s the minimum order quantity (MOQ)?
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Standard MOQ: 100 pieces per design
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Small run MOQ: as low as 50 pcs for trial or urgent jobs
For very large quantities (5,000+), custom pricing is available.
7. How long does production of custom metal pin buttons and shipping take?
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Design & proofing: 1–2 days
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Production time: 5–10 working days (depending on quantity)
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Shipping time: 3–7 days internationally via express carriers (FedEx, DHL, etc.)
Rush production is available for urgent events.
8. Can I provide my own design of the custom metal pin buttons? What format do you need?
Yes! You can send us your logo, artwork, or layout in formats like:
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AI, EPS, PDF (vector preferred)
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High-resolution PNG or JPEG (at least 300 dpi)
We can help adjust, improve, or vectorize your artwork for free if needed.
9. Are custom metal pin buttons reusable or washable?
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Standard and custom metal pin buttons are reusable and durable.
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While not designed for washing machines, they can be wiped clean with a damp cloth.
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Mylar-coated surface protects the artwork from light moisture and scratches.
10. What packaging options of custom metal pin buttons are available?
We offer several packaging options of custom metal pin buttons depending on the purpose:
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Bulk packaging (free) – suitable for large giveaways
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Individual polybags – for clean distribution
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Custom backing cards – ideal for retail or branding
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Gift boxes or blister packs – for premium presentation