It is the best time to make sure your employees feel valued.

Research proves that happy employees are more efficient. As the media bombards us with stories of failed companies and economic stagnation, motivating employees can greatly improve their sense of security, morale, loyalty, productivity, and profitability. Whether you represent one of the Top 500 companies in the world or a family business, recognition is an effective and economical way to let your employees know that they are important.

Brooks Conkle thinks that life and business are one grand adventure, and how powerful the brain is and where it can take you. The powerful brain will help your business better and make your life easier. So you can imagine how about a group of powerful brains?

It’s not limited to years of service recognition, but also includes goals to achieve, projects to complete, or commemoration of promotion. By offering personalized rewards to employees, you will create more influential projects with intrinsic value to both employees and the company. Personal contacts like this are more influential because they highlight personal contributions and show that employee engagement is always the focus.

Why Motivate Your Employees?

A breakthrough study conducted by MIT has found that: successful experience can make the brain change, and success can stimulate the brain to change its physical properties; failure has no effect on the brain. Scientists believe that this means, on a neurological level, success actually provides more information than failure. When you get a reward, the brain remembers the right behavior. However, in the case of failure, the brain will be helpless and don’t know what to store, so nothing will change.

These studies enlighten us on the management principles: leaders should pay more attention to the advantages and successes of individuals and teams, interact with employees in a positive way, and give appropriate praise;

If you take good care of your employees, they will take good care of you and your customers. This applies to any type of enterprise, no matter big or small size. It is not as difficult as you think to express gratitude to your employees. Sometimes, small and meaningful gifts like custom lapel pins can help a lot.

Why Use Employee Recognition Pins?

When it comes to employee recognition, you may consider bonuses, certificates, or trophies. However, the lapel pin is one of the most popular employee recognition concepts used by companies or organizations!

In addition to being used as a symbol of different organizations, such as fraternities and sororities, company and political parties, activities, and meetings, lapel pin can also be used to specify achievements. As the common element of employee recognition programs, the pin is presented to teams or individuals as a symbol of achievements.  A sense of belonging is instilled in the elite performers in the organization by the customized lapel pin.

Incorporating your company logo into customized motivation pins and distributing them to employees can show them that they are the part that makes the company great. Your employees will be proud to wear their recognition pins, and their achievements will be recognized by peers, family, and friends.

What are the Characteristics of Recognition Pins?

• Cost-effective and an economical way

• High-quality appearance and enduring attraction

• Vivid enamel colors, bright metal plating, and upgrade options

• 100% custom style with unlimited design potential

• Well-match with dressing for business and work uniform

• Multi theme, multi-occasion, multi-type of work (Including nurses/teachers/soldiers and other specific occupations)

What are the Themes of Recognition Pins?

When most think of recognition pins, they think about years of service, but there are a variety of unique recognition themes:

• Years of Service

• Outstanding Staff

• Trade Show

• Event & Meeting

• Team Building

• Special Certification

• Safety Model

• Unique ceremony

• Customer Service

Appreciation of Customer Cases:

Innovative Company Used Recognition to Boost Associate Morale

As one of the fastest-growing auto insurance companies in the country and one of the first to offer auto insurance completely online, Esurance is known for its innovative business practices. The trend-setting company applied its creativity to an associate recognition program for its claims department.

The program recognizes associates in the claims department anytime they are promoted or acquire a new skill. The associate is given a lapel pin by his or her manager to commemorate the accomplishment. Associates display their lapel pins on their desks using “Making the Difference” Award Pin Displays. The frames are proudly set up on desks throughout the claims department and are a symbol of seniority, as well as achievement, throughout the organization.
Managers are enthusiastic about participating in the program. Like associates, they also want to display their lapel pins as a sign of their accomplishments. “We have individuals who were hired as claims representatives and promoted to managers before this program in place now call us for their own pins. Managers are also very happy to have a tangible way of honoring an individual’s achievements,” says Lisa Barnhart, Esurance’s Corporate Claims Development Manager.

Esurance has created lapel pins incorporating their logo with exclusive custom designs. The pin designs are easy to customize with the corporate logo. “Because many of our claims offices are somewhat recent additions to our organization, it’s important for us to have tokens like this to help create a culture that’s uniquely identified as Esurance,” explains Lisa.

Since the introduction of the achievement-based program, there has been a boost in associate morale. In a survey after the program was introduced, associates were more aware of career opportunities and felt more recognized for their efforts.

Esurance’s innovative program provided a simple and effective solution to recognizing individual skills and contributions. “The lapel pins are a huge success,” says Lisa. “It’s been a huge associate morale booster.” Not only has the program improved associate morale in claims departments, but it has also helped to identify where associate skill sets are in need of further development. The program has been pivotal to identify the areas associates using additional training, providing training, and recognizing individuals for completing it.

Create Your Own Recognition Pins

The employee’s recognition pins are a fun and unique way to provide creative ways to share compliments. Custom pin designs often include company logos, team logos, mission statements, and motivational slogans that are reminiscent of the company’s culture and traditions.

Including awareness support or years of service or excellent employees, these pins can be used for a variety of reasons and can be provided to all people, with no limit by age. This is a different way of rewarding achievements and recognizing people who transcend themselves.

Our pins can be installed on special display cards or stuffed in gift boxes. Schools, companies, clubs, sports teams, law enforcement, hospitals, dental clinics, and even the military may use these recognition pins. These pins can be presented individually or together with trophies, certificates, or any other rewards.

Are you looking for employee inspiration pin designs or something meaningful? Then you’ve come to the right place. GS-JJ is the best source for you to customize lapel pins. We are experts on customized award pin design and production and we always increase our selection of promotional products, there is always something new for you to find. You will soon discover that we could create more than just the customized award pins.

Check out our custom lapel pins page to learn more about the different personalized options available for your pins design. Choose from custom shapes, glitter powder, luminous pins, and other interesting styles. Our recognition pins are made in many different crafts, you can choose from colorful enamel paints, bronze finishes, shiny gold designs, and more!

The post Boost Employee Morale with Recognition Pins appeared first on GS-JJ.COM.

Create Your Own Pin Step by Step …

DESIGN & MANUFACTURE Your Custom Enamel Pins

Many beginners still have questions about getting into the game – making their own enamel pins: “Completely zero-based, I want to customize enamel pins. What kind of knowledge do I need to master? Can you provide a step-by-step guide to learn this?” “If there is no design, are there any tools for online designing enamel pins that can be recommended?” “How much does it cost to make enamel pins?” “What’s the difference between hard enamel pins and soft enamel pins?” “How to make enamel pins from scratch?”……..

The market will always be a surprise; it will smell the taste of your needs and surprise you.
Today, we will teach you how to make your own enamel pins and create your own pins step by step.

Step by Step Process of Making Enamel Pins 

To make your own Enamel Pins, this guide will help you turn your designs into amazing enamel pins.

Step 01 Create Your Pin Design

Step 02 Determine Enamel Pin Craft

Step 03 Determine The Right Pin Size

Step 04 Choose Backing And Its Quantity

Step 05 Choose Enamel Pin Packaging

Step 06 Select Enamel Pin Manufacturer

Step 07 Custom Enamel Pin Cost

Step 08 Confirm and Place Your Order

More tips: About Making Your Enamel Pins

STEP 1
How to Design Enamel Pins

Design your own pins–Creating a Pin Design

No matter you are making something worth collecting, promotional pins,  or just want to show your creativity, excellent enamel pins start with eye-catching enamel pin designs.

• Using professional design software to creating your designs, such as Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop,
• Or using Free Alternative Online Editor: Pixlr.com, GIMP, Paint.NET,

Even if you don’t have design skills, there are many free online tools to turn your ideas into functional pin designs:

• The leading online design tools: Canva, Stencil, FotoJet, Desygner,Placeit by Envato…
• Online Design Tools developed by enamel pin maker: GS-JJ, the Pin People, 

Designing your own pins is obviously a happy thing, but some error-prone details are likely to be overlooked. Here, we sort out the following points for you:

• Simplified design
• Draw the design with clean connecting lines
• Use bold lines that can be converted to raised metal
• Avoid using complex external shapes and gaps
• Consider the weight of the final pin
• Avoid shadows
• Make sure to use the PMS (Pantone Color Matching System) for colors

Or find a designer

For creators who have ideas but don’t have the time or know-how to create these files, or can’t make sure about creating pin design, you can also ask a professional designer for help.

Check out the payable service markets: Fiverr, Creative Market, or Upwork, and find design resources, and hire graphic designers who can make your ideas into workable designs.

If your budget is limited and then free artwork design service provides by those enamel pins makers is perfect for you. You only need to provide your ideas, whether it is graphic artworks, simple sketches, or just some ideas written in text, designers will make your concept a reality and choose the right style.

The designers of enamel pins makers will provide you with digital works for your confirmation and approval. You can tweak this artwork over and over until the concept fits your needs perfectly.

STEP 2
Choose Your Enamel Pin Type

Pin manufacturers are based on two traditional processes, hard enamel, and soft enamel. However, many people even mistakenly believe that the two are the same. For most people, it is difficult to distinguish between soft enamel pins and hard enamel pins.

In addition, there are four easily distinguishable processes: Sandblasting Pins, offset printing pins, Antique pins, 3D cast or cut out pins. Each material is a real material with its own characteristics, so no matter which process you choose, you can make it an ideal high-quality pin.

Learn More: Get more information about how factory manufacturing the enamel pins.

Learn More: Get tips for distinguishing 6 types of enamel pins.

Hard Enamel Pins

Hard enamels-Their signature features fine lines and smooth surfaces that are more visually appealing to most people. These are the best looking and most professional designs. From the level of enamel and the hard polishing effect of the end, it becomes flat and smooth.

Soft Enamel Pins

Its main feature is its textured pin surface, which provides more detail and reduces costs. They are made of cast iron metal, electroplated, high temperature baked, and optional epoxy coating and usually feel thinner than hard enamel pins.

Learn More in-depth: read our post: Soft Enamel vs Hard Enamel Pins for more information 

STEP 3
Choosing Your Enamel Pin Size

At this stage, it is important to determine the size of the pins to be manufactured, as this will help you determine how simple or detailed the design is. Size is related to cost. The larger the size, the greater the information and effort required, and therefore the higher the cost.

When to choose big size enamel pins?

Larger pins (1.25 inches long or 1.25 inches long) can be designed with more detail because they use a larger canvas, the bigger the enamel pin, the more detail you can add to the design. But their size also restricts where they are worn, few people wear custom 2-inch lapel pins. 

Pins: 1.25″-2.00″ Sizes

● Enamel Pins with difficult fonts

● Suitable for Medium – High Details

● Benefit for Most Requirements

When to choose small size enamel pins?

Small pins are usually 0.50 to 1.00 inches wide or long. They are lighter, easier to connect anywhere, and cheaper because they use less material.
The disadvantage of small pins is that they usually do not provide unique design details. The smaller the pin, the cheaper it is.

Pins: 0.50″-1.00″ Sizes

● Suitable for Simple Designs without much details

● School or Company Logos Pins with Simple fonts

● Sponsor Pins or Promotional Pins

Learn More: Get tips for how to wear enamel pins. 

STEP 4
How Many Enamel Pins and Pin-Backs You Need?

How Many attachments You Want?

The rear of the pin is just as important as the front of the pin. Different accessories have different uses and applications, so how do we choose the right pin attachment? It’s not that difficult, just choose according to your own needs. We offer a selection of attachment-types: butterfly clutch, rubber cover, magnet, safety pin, luxury clutch, cuff-link, stick pin, keychain, and so on.

Learn More in-depth: Get tips for choosing the right attachments for your enamel pins.

For pin fixing, you only need to choose the right number:
For smaller pins, usually, only one backing is chosen, but when your pins are large enough, we recommend sticking two attachments! With just one attachment to secure the pin base, your pin can shake left and right in any place, and it is more likely to fall and be lost.

≥100 Pieces Enamel Pins Or No MOQ?

How many enamel pins should you order? The selling price starts with the cost of the initial mold. After making the first mold, each pin will be created in a copy of the mold. Therefore, increasing the quantity means lowering the average price per enamel pin.

Sometimes just tell the pin makers how much you need to order, they will give you a preferential price based on the quantity you ordered.

Most manufacturers of enamel pins will ask you to order 100 pieces in a minimum order. If you are not at ease, to reduce the risk, you can choose to cooperate with companies that offer custom enamel pins no minimum order quantity, and sample pins before mass production, for example, GS-JJ, Pinmart, EnamelPins.com.

STEP 5
What Type Of Packaging Do You Like?

Most pin designers have redoubled their efforts to create support cards for each pin design and package the support cards and pins in plastic bags. The general manufacturer will provide five types of pin packaging: plastic bag, plastic bag+paper card, plastic box, velvet bag, and velvet box. Therefore, when you are deciding on the packaging, please consider where you plan to sell. The right package is the right way you can add highlights to your pins.

If you plan to sell your enamel pins at conferences, online, or other commercial stores, the more exquisite packaging will allow people to choose your products.

Acting as common giveaways, promotional pins, event pins, or if you want them to hang the pins right away, you probably should bypass the carding and bagging.

Meanwhile, if you want to use it as an ad, make sure you have a logo back cover.

STEP 6
Choose The Right Enamel Pin Manufacturer

Once you have prepared the design draft and demands, the next step is to find the right manufacturer. The pin industry has developed rapidly recently, which means that there are now manufacturers all over the world. Here is some detailed information for you to find the right manufacturer of enamel pins:

1. Rich Experience

2. Timely Feedback

3. Own an Enamel Pin factory

4. Show Comments

5. Free Shipping

6. Delivery Guarantee

7. Quality & Return Guarantee

There are many companies in North America, Europe, and Asia that provide enamel pin manufacturing. A quick Google or Alibaba or social media search for “pin maker”, “enamel pin manufacturer”, “enamel pin factory” will result in dozens of suitable manufacturers.

Once determine who you work with, e-mail them with a low-resolution JPG of the design (instead of the final PDF), the required materials, size, quantity, number of pins you want. 

Learn More:   Get tips for choosing the right enamel pins manufacturer Or check where to order the best custom pins.

STEP 7
How Much Do Custom Enamel Pins Cost?

The cost of custom enamel pins depends on the previous six steps, the design cost can be reduced as many companies provide free design. Factors include:

Type / Quantity / Size / Color / Attachment / Package / Adds-on / Production Time

Different factors corresponding to different selections and different costs will be generated. 

Bulk purchases usually ensure that you reduce costs, but only making sure you already make the most money using the best reputable services.

If you want to create multiple designs in one batch to adapt to different sales channels or to give customers multiple choices, try to use different packaging ways ( eg: 1/3 with backing paper card, 2/3 with plastic boxes) or use different enamel color collocations (solid colors or a mix of colors) based on the same mold.  The pin makers will usually keep your mold for up to three years for free.

Want the more exact price? Make full use of the manufacturer’s online quotation system, which is faster than an email quotation. Not only can you compare and get your ideal price in a short time but also repositioning and refine your demands step by step.

STEP 8
Confirm and Place Your Order

When you have finished the above steps, your custom enamel pin is very close to you. Now you only need to complete the order and the entire ordering process is successfully completed.

The thing to note here is to order one month before you need the pins so that they arrive on time. Usually, it takes about 2-4 weeks to reach your custom enamel pins, so please consider your ordering time, especially when the demand is seasonal. Unless you want to receive your pins after the holiday!

MORE TIPS
About Making Your Own Enamel Pins 

✎ Plating

Electroplating is also called surface treatment, and it comes with some options. Plating usually includes nickel-free plating performed under the main plating layer.

Learn More: Get more information for different plating options.

✎ Pin Type

There are 4 kinds of special crafts: Sandblasting Pins, Offset printing pins, Antique pins, 3D cast or cut out pins. And plenty of special options: apply rhinestones, glitter variants, glow in dark enamel, transparent enamel, screen printing, laser engraving, epoxy coating, tassels, hanging chains, jewels additions, slider, bobble, and other gimmick pins. These add-ons are quoted based on your design.

✎ Production

Standard production usually takes 10 to 14 days. Printing design is the fastest style. Hard enamel and cloisonne have been made longer because of its complex process.

✎ Production Time

If you need to rush your order, we recommend that you require your sales representative to send the order to the factory directly for completion before the deadline. Or you can choose the pin with simpler craftsmanship, or contact for the supplier’s 24-hour rush service.

✎ Delivery

Most bulk pin orders are shipped by Ground Shipping Services. Goods that need to go to multiple locations are very standard. Please make sure you have reserve enough time for delivery.

✎ Reorders

The best part of reordering is that the mold is pre-made and your order cost will be lower than the price you originally paid. You don’t have to pay for the mold the next time you order the same precise design.

Maybe you are interested in: how to display enamel pins

The post How to Make Enamel Pins? appeared first on GS-JJ.COM.

Plating is very important for lapel pins. The effect of the appearance of the lapel pins is to see what kind of plating you to chosen.

Plating refers to attaching a metal protective film on the surface of the metal material, which can prevent corrosion, prevent oxidation, make the appearance beautiful, and improve wear resistance, and so on.

We offer a variety of plating options, each with its own unique appearance. Whether your promotion requires a traditional and colorful appearance or a classic old-world look, you can choose the plating that best fits the occasion.

How To Choose Custom Lapel Pins Plating Options?

Which metal plating options are right for your custom pins? There is no right or wrong answer, it all depends on your pin design and preference.

If you are not sure which one goes best with your design, See the article below.

Here are 4 tips you should know when choosing to electroplate your custom pins.

Tips 1

How Many Kinds of Plating Can You Choose?

GS-JJ can provide many different plating options are Shiny Gold, Shiny Silver, Shiny Copper, Shiny Brass, Black Nickel,

Alternative finishing options are Antique Gold, Antique Silver, Antique Brass, Antique Copper, Two-Tone Finish, Rainbow Plated and Black Dye.

Shiny Platings

Our shiny platings are the most common option for lapel pins. The pins are electroplated with your choice of Gold, Silver, Copper, or Black Nickel, Then buffed to a mirror shine. We suggest that this plating can be used with Soft Enamel Pins, Hard Enamel Pins, Sandblast Pins, and pins without enamel.

Antique Platings

Our antique metal platings are perfect for those who want a less flashy look to their pins. The finish subdues the metal so it isn’t as shiny and gives it a patina. Antique pins are a great contemporary look with old-world charm that is sure to impress.

The back of our antique pins is black. We suggest that this plating can be used with Antique pins, 3D or Cutout Pins, Soft enamel pins.

Rainbow Plated

We are excited to tell you that we can provide the rainbow metal pins. Their incredible eye-catching and vivid appearance will make your pins stand out from the crowd. You can add any color you like, It is definitely one of the coolest choices.

This process is called ” anodizing “

The rainbow effect is achieved by anodizing. First, the metal pin is cast in a mold. Before any enamel is added, the pin is carefully cleaned and prepared for the anodizing process. A chemical solution is created and pins are dipped in it.

The ground wire is connected to each pin, and the charge passes through the wire through the metal. The chemical reaction with electricity produces an amazing rainbow effect on the metal.

This process only takes a few seconds to change the color of the metal. Even if the power is turned on for half a second, the color of the metal can be greatly changed. The final color of metals is determined by the time it takes for the charge to pass through them. Then clean the pins with a chemical solution and add enamel if necessary.

Tips 2

Dyed Metal Electroplating

This has been the biggest innovation and trend in the enamel pin movement recently. Enamel pin designers have been driving these changes within our industry and we couldn’t be happier.

Now you can get your base metal in white, red, green or blue.  This has been the most exciting change we’ve seen in 46 years in this industry and solves a LOT of design problems.

Most pins are too small for us to inlay color in the text. White or black dyed metal solves the problem. Make your text raised metal when designing and advise us of your color choice.

This is not suitable for orders with a tight timeline as it adds a couple of extra steps to the electroplating process.

Tips 3

What problems do you need to pay attention to

              when choosing Two-Tone Finish and Dye Black? 

The two-tone finish can choose two or more kinds of finish together on a lapel pin. It should be noted that the plating of a lapel pin can only be shiny plating, or it can only be antique plating. You have to remember once your product is dye black plated, no other plating can be done.

Dye black lapel pins can only be dyed black. So if you choose a two-tone finish, we will recommend the plating of your lapel pins according to your requirements.

Tips 4

What’s the Difference Between

                 Shiny Black Nickel Finish and Dye Black?

They both are black, but the plated black nickel is a kind of metallic bright black, bright and reflective, so it does not look particularly dark, and even looks like silvery when reflective. Dye black is to dye the whole product with black pigment, Because the pigment is dyed, the surface of the product is not particularly reflective and looks very dark. The disadvantage is that it is not as bright as a black nickel.       

If you choose the hard enamel pins, you cannot choose the antique finish type and dye black. In addition, for any other process, these plating are no different. Depending on what kind of metal color you like, you can choose what kind of plating.

Need Help With Your Metal Pins Plating Options?

If you don’t know how to choose the plating for your product, you can choose the LET GS-JJ to decide for me option on our homepage‘s unique custom system. We will choose the best plating for you based on your requirements.

Get Quote

The post How To Choose The Best Plating For Your Lapel Pins appeared first on GS-JJ.COM.

To trace the origin of the Brooch goes all the way back to Stone Age. Research shows that the Ancients used animal skins or sharp animal or fish bones or even thorns to fasten. The Brooch or lapel pin of course has evolved since then, and now can reflect any shape or image and is a significant piece of fashion today.

So many people want lapel pins more than before. I’m sure many people are interested in knowing how custom enamel lapel pins are made! Let us show you how to make enamel pins now.

Step 1: Design Drawing

The perfect design is the soul of the custom enamel pins, we will design drawings according to customer requirements.

Step 2: Finish 3D Model

The customer confirmed design drawings that are forwarded to the factory mold department programmer. After the 3D model is finished, the production of the lapel pins can start. A piece of black steel that is a mold material, fixed in the engraving machine, the computer program will be compiled according to the 3D model in the black steel, and remove the excess metal parts. Patterns are gradually formed, which is a slow process. Because of different sizes, different complexity of the design, engraving time spent is not the same. The short only a few hours, while the long take a few days to complete mold making.

After the mold is completed, our staff needs to carefully compare the mold pattern with the design drawings to ensure that the mold pattern is correct. The mold cannot be used immediately, because we need to put the mold into the high-temperature oven to bake to reduce the hardness of the mold. This is a simple heat treatment process, but it is an important process of making enamel pins. Finally, we put it immediately into the oil to cool, to further increase the hardness and toughness of the mold.

Step3: Die Struck

We will also set a steel ring at the outside of the cooling mold. The reason for this is to protect the mold so it’s not damaged in the stamping process. We use a hydraulic machine to fix the mold, the following we can start the beginning process. This process is what we call DIE STRUCK.

The material selected for this is iron, copper, zinc alloy, aluminum, and so on. When the first blank pin comes out, we need to carefully check the blank custom pin and design is the same. If there is a little flaw, we need to modify the mold or even re-engraved new mold. After checking is complete, if there is no problem we will start mass production on the order. After mass production, we need to remove the extra part with a knife installed on the machine.

Step 4: Grinding and Vibration

In order for the enamel pins to come out smoothly, we put all blanks into the grinding machine to shock. This will cause the blanks to start collision and friction so that it gives the pins a simply polished.

Step 5: Add Attachments

There are so many specific names for lapel pins, cuff links, a hat clip, etc. Different accessories led to different purposes of the badge, so the names are different. We equipped our production with a very wide range of accessories, “thorn needle, butterfly clutch, safety pin, magnet, etc.” Thorn needles currently have two kinds of assembly methods to fix, one is to glue the thorn needle stuck in the back of the product (this way because of a long-time glue aging, resulting in thorn needle easy to fall off) And another way is silver welding (welding thorn horseshoe needle is very strong, and it will not fall off and fix for so long time).

Step 6: Polishing 

Polishing is a very important part of the production process, I believe no one is willing to buy such productions which have a rough badge and scratches on the surface. We are responsible for every customer, so we are very strict about polishing.

The polishing grinding wheel is divided into many kinds, there is a hard sand wheel, soft cloth wheel, and so on. If smooth requirements are not high, we can use the grinding sand wheel directly polished production, if customers want to get a smooth surface or mirror gloss, we need to use the cloth wheel to polish productions.

Each custom enamel pin will be a separate polished and the worker carefully controls the contact with the cloth wheel to ensure that the polished surface can be polished. After polishing, side polishing is still done by hand, one by one individually polished.

Step 7: Electroplating

Polished pins will be sent to electroplating, which is according to the customer’s demand. There is bright gold, bright silver, bright red copper, antique gold, antique silver, antique copper, and so on.

With the copper wire for the custom-made pins, one by one is strung together invading the syrup. The first step is to use ultrasonic oil in order to remove the pins in the previous production process stained with a variety of oil. Through the sound waves generated overclocking vibration, so that oil separates from the enamel pins surface. After they are oiled, pins will need to be washed to get rid of the syrup.

And then, we start to plate. Infiltration with alkali copper liquid, pins are coated with metal color. Usually different plating colors, the number of coloring will be different. Red copper can be plated twice, three times silver, four times gold. It is the end of the plating when enamel pins are sent into the oven for baking.

Step 8: Coloring

Color is divided into soft enamel and hard enamel. Soft enamel pins are one of our most popular styles. Metal areas are raised, colors are recessed.

Hard enamel pins color is smooth and delicate giving a very upscale feeling. Contract color card and design draft, the color worker needs to mix the color and many places that need to color can be very small. The color worker sucks the color with a needle and colors it by hand. Until the color is completed the quality inspection master carefully checks the color of the pins. If there is no problem, the badge is put into the oven at high temperatures to make the paint solid and fixed on the pin.

The above is about soft enamel pins color. Hard enamel pins color order is not the same. We need to electroplate at first, and then to color, while the latter is plating at first, coloring second, plating third. In other words, hard enamel pins need to polish twice. In addition, after coloring, we need to deal with the problem of uneven color because the liquid properties before baking will cause the solidified color surface to be rugged. The product needs to be polished again, and the pins need to be washed to prevent being damaged by high temperatures.

Step 9: Packaging

The last quality inspection is made before packaging. Only qualified productions were sent anywhere in the world by land transport or air transport. We can provide different packaging according to different requirements for customers. Ziploc bag is most common. Besides, we provide paper cards, velvet pouch, velvet box, plastic box.

Did you understand the process of making custom enamel pins through videos or reading our texts? If you have any other doubts, you can leave a message text comments, or directly go to our homepage GS-JJ.COM and contact us online, we would like to help customers answer the doubts.

The post How Factory Making Enamel Pins? appeared first on GS-JJ.COM.

•  1. What do Military Pins Mean?
•  2. How to Wear Military Lapel Pins?
•  3. The History of Military Pins
•  4. Five Types of Military Pins
•  5. What Military Pins Means in Modern Times
• 6. How to Get Military Lapel Pins?
   

What do Military Pins Mean?

U.S Military pins are a special way to represent US troops. Whether it’s the traditional American flag pins or military pins

has become a common expression of patriotism and allegiance. This has become a common sight in American culture. 

Pictures resource from militaryonesource.mil

Learn About-Military Insignia and Pins!

Have you ever wondered what the difference is? The word “pins” is common and is used to describe military badges and insignia of various armed forces around the world.

Because these badges and insignia are usually fixed on the uniform of a soldier or officer, they are often called pins. But insignia can also be found on patches, so these terms are sometimes used interchangeably. Keep reading you will to learn more about the United States military pins and army pins!

How to Wear Military Lapel Pins?

The military lapel pins and military coins are a great way to honor Veterans Day, Armed Services Day, Pearl Harbor Day, and just about any patriotic holiday.
Our Military Pins are used on caps, like tie clips/clasps and more commonly on lapels and collars.

The Flag Code clearly stipulates that military personnel, police officers, firefighters and members of other patriotic organizations may wear military lapel pins as part of their official uniforms.

As in other cases, the pin should be worn on the left lapel of the uniform. In the military environment, when wearing a flag lapel pin, you must also follow the prevailing dress standards.  Now you know how to wear military pins. So, you want to know how to wear  military medal?

The History of Us Military Pins

The first time military lapel pins appeared in American history was during the Civil War in the 1860s. Officers in the U.S. Military will wear a lapel pin to represent a rank or unit.

The military asked the soldiers to wear a brass pin with their unit number. In order to allow everyone to distinguish between different units, it is also used to build loyalty among the members of each unit. In Fact, The actual origin of the military challenge coins may never be known. Several challenge coin stories are circulating about the origins and history of military coins. Click Here to know more.

By the time World War I. The lapel pin process had changed. Instead of having everyone wear on one, they provide individuals for exemplary service on the battlefield.  In the U.S. Military, the lapel pins have become a status symbol, and every one tells a different story about who possesses them.

Later, a series of lapel pins were used in the ceremony and were given to the loved ones of the fallen soldiers. From the Army pins, the Navy pins, the Marine Corp pins, to the Air Force pins, their significance to the person receiving the lapel pins was great honor and pride.

After the end of the war, this previously unintended influence was not reduced. Military personnel can wear military lapel pins to add a unique feel to their dress blues. They can also be worn as a special accessory for any dress or suit.

As part of any outfit, the lapel pins can also be worn daily, to proudly demonstrating support and loyalty. So the Soldiers and civilians can also wear it with great pride.

5 Types of Military Pins

The original, vintage military pins were created in five categories to represent the five military branches: army, air force, marine corps, navy, and coast guard.
Each of the five military services maintains a separate series of lapel pins.

Below is some information about the military pins:
   Army Pins:
• The first unified professional army in American history.
• US Army logo is one that displays a white star outlined in yellow, with black accents.
• The Army pins approval in 1974, represents the Army seal and American flags. In 1975
   was engraved on the lapel pin

   Air Force Pins:
• The Air Force symbol is – the “Arnold” wings and star.
• It was established in 1947 and is the youngest branch of the U.S. military.
• Currently has over 320,000 active-duty personnel.

   Marine Corps Pins:
• The Eagle, Globe, and Anchor is an emblem used to represent the Marine Corps.
• “Semper Fidelis” (“Always Faithful”) is the motto of the Marines Corps.
• Currently has over 190,000 active-duty personnel.

   Navy Pins:
• The world’s first established elite troops were established in 1775.
• Navy logo, features an eagle, with its wings spread.
• Navy core values are “Honor, Courage, Commitment”.
• It has 282 deploy-able combat vessels and more than 3,700 operational aircraft.

   Coast Guard Pins:
• They are the smallest branch.
• It was first established in 1970, Its motto was ” Semper Paratus.”
• Currently has over 44,000 active duty personnel with over 1,900 boats available.

What do Military Pins Mean in Modern Times?

The military pins have a long and colorful history for the united states. They now represent honor, commitment and patriotism.
The original vintage lapel pin is now a collector’s item and can be found in many places online and in military history stores and museums.

How to Get Military Pins?

GS-JJ can offer inexpensive military lapel pins that are great looking and will fit almost any budget. Use the GS-JJ Online Design System to start your custom enamel pins design. Military Pins templates of various popular themes provide you with design inspiration. That means we can help make your ideas a reality!

We do not only customize affordable military lapel pins but also customize army patches, army medals, military medals, military coin, military patches.
We also carry a large selection of patriotic and veteran lapel pins. Just click here to view our military pins page.

The post The Meaning Of US Military Pins appeared first on GS-JJ.COM.

Why is it necessary to popularize the knowledge of magic phosphors? When ordering enamel pins glow in the dark, the chosen phosphor color and the light it finally glowed in the dark maybe not the same as what you expected at the very start. The reason is that you don’t fully understand the phosphors and how to choose them. So the importance of correctly using the glow in the dark powder is shown here.

Let’s fully learn about the knowledge of magic phosphors in a question and answer format.

Q: What are phosphors or glow in dark powders?

• A: Phosphor, also called Glow in the dark powder and fluorescent powder, is made of zinc sulfide which absorbs light energy when it is exposed to natural light, sunlight, ultraviolet light, etc. After stopping the light irradiation, it is slowly released in the way of fluorescence and can be seen at night or in the dark. The glow in the dark powder will last for several hours or more than ten hours. After the light energy of glow in the dark powder is released completely, it needs to be put into the light again to absorb light resources so that it can continue to glow in the dark.

Q: How many colors of glow in the dark powder are we, GS-JJ used?

• A: We have common 16 color options: yellow-green light, blue-green light, sky blue light, red, white, green, orange, purple, yellow, orange-red, rainbow pink, light green, fluorescent yellow, fluorescent green, fluorescent red, fluorescent blue, and other special color options are also available for your selection.

Q: Is the color of the phosphor the same in bright and dark places?

• A: No, it’s different. Because the brighter color is the lower luminous brightness is (as shown in the figure below). As you can see, the light from the pink glow in dark power turns red, and the purple powder turns gray-green. Therefore, Customers have to attention that the light of the phosphor powder is inconsistent with the color of the phosphor itself. In other words, it is not that this phosphor color is changed to phosphor to emit the light of that color. So we also suggest that when choosing the powder color, customers should look at the contrast between the bright and dark to make the right choice.

Q: What kind of glow in dark power is the best luminous effect?

• A: Yellow-green light, blue-green light, and sky blue light are the best in the dark. And we also recommend these three colors to customers. In addition, the larger area of the fluorescent colors on the enamel pins, the better the light effect in the dark. Especially for small areas that glow in the dark pins, it is strongly recommended to use three phosphors: yellow-green light, blue-green light, and sky blue. The glowing effect of the Colorful phosphor badge in a small area is much worse than the above three recommended phosphors.

Q: Can phosphors be mixed with colored ink?

• A: Glow in dark powders can be mixed with colored ink, but the mix will darken the light effect of the glow in dark powders. Generally, the effect of adding fluorescent powder in transparent ink is better than that in colored, non-transparent ink, that’s to say, if you want pins’ luminous effect to be bright, you’d better to choose the transparent ink mixed with glow in dark powders.

Q: Does the color of glow in dark powder affect the color of enamel?

• A: The color of glow in dark powder has a certain influence on the enamel color which mainly depends on the color of powder and the added quantity. But don’t worry that, our color masters have a fixed proportion for color matching.

Q: Is the phosphor on your enamel pins certified as non-toxic?

• A: GSJJ uses the fluorescent powder materials with ROHS environmental protection certificate and EU EN71 heavy metal test certificate. Guaranteed safe, environmentally friendly, and non-toxic, ensuring your usage at ease.

Do you know how to choose the magic glow in the dark powder for custom pin badges now? If you have any other questions, leave a message in our comment area freely, or contact our online customer service directly.

At the end of the knowledge popularization of the glow in the dark powder, let’s enjoy our awesome glow in the dark enamel pins by GS-JJ.

More Lapel Pin Badges Knowledge:

https://www.gs-jj.com/blog/glow-in-the-dark-enamel-for-custom-pins/

https://www.gs-jj.com/blog/soft-enamel-vs-hard-enamel-pins/

https://www.gs-jj.com/blog/craftwork-class-custom-pins-offset-printed-vs-silkscreen/

https://www.gs-jj.com/blog/electroplating-vs-spraying/

https://www.gs-jj.com/blog/die-struck-lapel-pins-vs-die-cast-lapel-pins/

https://www.gs-jj.com/blog/answer-the-questions-of-epoxy-custom-lapel-pins/

https://www.gs-jj.com/blog/how-to-choosing-the-right-attachment-for-your-lapel-pins/

https://www.gs-jj.com/blog/craft-combination-custom-pins/

The post How To Choose Magic Phosphors For Glow In The Dark Pins? appeared first on GS-JJ.COM.

When making the Custom Pins with Enamel Paints, the most common question is what’s the difference between soft vs. hard enamel pins (the two most popular styles).

In case you are a video lover, watch the video to get a quick answer.

Video Version of Soft Enamel VS. Hard Enamel Pins

For more introduction, please read on…

Quick Visual Distinction

Let’s get a quick understanding of Soft Enamel VS. Hard Enamel Pins, just judging from the surface:

The simple answer is soft enamel has raised metal lines & recessed enamel, a textured and non-smooth surface.

The answer for hard enamel is a polished flat of metal and enamel, a non-textured and smooth surface.

If you have these two types of pins at hand, try to compare and observe them from the front view, and the side view, and feel the difference in the surface with your fingers.  You must have got the answer when you read here.

Want to deeply understand the differences? Please dive on.

In-depth Understanding

1. What are Enamel Pins?

➤ What are Soft Enamel Pins?

Although its name says otherwise, soft enamel pins are not soft to the touch. Soft enamel pins are a kind of enamel pins, it is also called die-struck pins. Based on stamped metal or die-struck metal, it can be electroplated with various metal colors, bright gold, bright silver, etc.

The debossed metal areas between metal edges are filled with various colored enamel paints which are laid below the metal edges. 

Each color is surrounded by metal edges. Its surface has an obvious sense of concavo-convex. You can feel the obvious roughness with your fingers. Its dimensional look is what makes so many people drawn to it.

➤ What are the Hard Enamel Pins? 

Hard enamel pins are also called imitation Cloisonné pins, a kind of enamel pins. It is equivalent to the upgraded version of soft enamel.

The entire inside debossed metal areas are filled with various colored enamel paints to the same even level of the metal edges.

And the surface is repeatedly polished. Its surface has no obvious sense of concavo-convex, and we can feel a slightly bumpy feeling while it has a similar texture to ceramics. The smooth surface makes it look more exquisite.

2. How Much Do Enamel Pins Cost?

➤ Soft Enamel Pins--Most Popular Style

The great-looking soft enamel pins with medium quality and charming texture are highly cost-effective and can be used for a versatile selection of shapes and sizes.

It is suitable for making all kinds of mid-range lapel pins. 

Price as low as $0.35/PC. Check the price list of soft enamel pins

➤ Hard Enamel Pins--High Perceived Value

The high-quality hard enamel pins belong to the top-grade lapel pins. The smooth and exquisite surface gives people a luxurious feeling.

The price is a bit higher than the soft enamel. It applies to the company lapel pins and commemorative lapel pins.

The price is as low as $0.55/PC. Check the price list of hard enamel pins

3. How are Enamel Pins Made?

➤ Different Manufacturing Processes

Both use the same metal mold and will have vivid colors. The mold of soft enamel can only be used for producing soft enamel pins, while the mold of hard enamel is not only able to be used for the hard enamel process but also for the soft enamel process.

Let’s learn more about the difference in manufacturing processes.

          How to Make Soft Enamel Pins          VS.          How to Make Hard Enamel Pins

The Manufacturing Flow Soft Enamel Pins VS. Hard Enamel Pins

➤ Different Surface of Finished Enamel Pins

Soft Enamel Pins are concave-convex, a metal line, or a metal surface is raised

Hard Enamel Pins are filled with enamel paints to be flush and even level with the metal edges and polished to a smooth-to-the-touch surface.

Notice: We can add a transparent epoxy resin coating to the surface of soft enamel pins to protect the surface and give the effect that the soft enamel is smooth(lose the sense of concave and convex).

Distinguish Skill: Because of the refraction of light, the surface with an added epoxy resin coating will be bright with a sense of reflection. But the “flat one” is not the hard enamel one.

4. Durability: Soft VS. Hard Enamel Pins

After getting the finished product, let’s see who is more durable.

Under the same preservation method and conditions, hard enamel pins are more durable than soft enamel pins.

Hard Enamel Pins are preferred by those who want the more durable enamel pins. It has super high quality and resistance from scratching.

In terms of drafting and design, the enamel pin manufacturer does the same colors, details, and visual effects on either. The difference is how the end products feel and how shadowing or reflection alters the appearance of the finished pins.

You can choose one or the other based on aesthetic preference as some craft works better than others with either the manufacturing process.

At GS-JJ.com, we offer both soft and hard custom enamel pins for the lowest factory price. Ultimately, the custom pins come down to your personal preference. You could pick the appearance and process that work best for your design. 

If you are still unsure, contact us and let us know. As an enamel pin maker with 20 years of professional experience, GS-JJ can help you pick out the most suitable and best-looking one for your design.

-End-

Maybe you are interested in how to make enamel pins

The post Soft Enamel VS. Hard Enamel Pins appeared first on GS-JJ.COM.

Today we are not here to talk about the fierce competition of the World Cup, let’s take a look at the Lapel Pins of the World Cup. This edition of Brazil 2014 World Cup 32 strong badge was bought online four years ago, looks very spectacular, in fact, this kind of pins is very cheap, has certain collection significance.

Below we pick a few zoom in, today’s badge is the second, mainly to see the team custom pins ~

Brazil 

Brazil is the emperor of the football world, and so far it is still the only country that has won the World Cup five times. The emblem of Brazil’s team is mainly yellow, green, and blue on the national flag, with shield and cross as the frame of the composition. CBF is the abbreviation of the Brazilian Football Confederation. The most dazzling are the five stars that symbolize the status of the football kingdom.

Germany

The defending champion Germany is still Samsung in 2014. After winning the championship in Brazil, the logo has been upgraded to four stars. Germany has won the World Cup finals eight times in its history and won the championship four times, second only to Brazil. German team’s excellent performance depends on the rigorous character of the German nation, focusing on the overall play, strict tactics and discipline, as well as the national football system to cultivate a continuous stream of new forces.

Germany’s team emblem, in the middle, is the Federal Eagle on the German national emblem, surrounded by the German national football team, below is the German national flag black, red, yellow, four stars, symbolizing that they won the World Cup Championship four times.

Argentina

Argentina is another football star on the South American mainland. Because of Messi’s existence, it has become my most supportive team. The two World Cup winners in Argentina’s history were led by Maradona, so Messi is one FIFA World Cup Trophy away from becoming soccer’s king.

France

France won the championship at the 1998 World Cup in France. In the past two years, it is said that France has reserved a lot of fresh strength. Even stars like Ribery and Benzema have not been selected as strong competitors in this World Cup.

The Gallic cock is the eternal symbol of France. Wherever it goes, it has a very high degree of recognition.

England

The Three Lions Regiment of the British Empire has always had many topics in the World Cup, but it has only won one World Cup champion. It has done nothing in the past 50 years. It is really a shame to the reputation of the birthplace of modern football.

Spain

Spain is also one of my favorite teams. Their exquisite control and cooperation and elegant foot technology are pleasant to watch. They have won the European Cup for six years and the World Cup. Latin American teams, such as Spain, Portugal, Brazil, and Argentina, often shine in the world in the era of great masters. Once the masters leave, their achievements often drop dramatically.

Portugal

Portugal can be said to be one of the worst economies in southern Europe, but this small country, football strength can not be underestimated. Just two years ago, they just won the European Cup championship.

Italy

Italian football has a glorious historical tradition. However, in this World Cup, they were not possessed by the soul. Not even qualified for the finals, and was eliminated early.

Compared with two Mediterranean neighbors, Spain and Portugal, the design of the Italian team logo is simple and straightforward.

Netherlands

The Netherlands national team is called the uncrowned king. It used to be a pleasant full-attack and full-defense method and won the second place in world competitions many times. But this year, like Italy and China, they went home early.

In my mind, the design of the Dutch team emblem is absolutely the most brilliant of all the above, and the concept of simple graphic design is very advanced.

By the way, I have introduced so many badges. And I don’t know which football team do you like best? Do you want the custom enamel pins of your favorite team? So you can try to buy online, if there is no online hosting you want, quietly tells you a way to get them, please log on to the GS-JJ.COM, here is absolutely any lapel pins you want.

The post Take Stock Of The World Cup National Team Lapel Pins appeared first on GS-JJ.COM.

1. DoughnutEnamel Pins

Super lovely doughnut pin, there’s no doubt that most people can’t resist it. Start your sweet day with our Donut Enamel Pins!

2. Super DoughnutEarrings

If the mini ear studs can’t satisfy you? This XL Earring, absolutely enough to pull the wind, to attend a party or something, you will be the most dazzling princess in the crowd.

https://shop.nylon.com/products/oversized-donut-earrings

3. Doughnut Mugs

In the morning, you can drink milk in this cup, and you will feel full even if you haven’t drunk it.

http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/urban/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=39388483

4. USB Heating Cup Pad

This plug-and-play hot cup mat is my favorite collection. It can heat coffee, drinks, and other things at work and study. It’s a super convenient and super lovely doughnut design, which makes coffee feel fragrant.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01JN8OH3A/?tag=bfelizabeth-20&ascsubtag=4389676%2C4%2C32%2Cdesktop%2Celizabethlilly%2Cfood

5. Doughnut Billboards

A doughnut-shaped Billboards with the words “Donut Disturb” can be used when you are busy or in a bad mood.

https://www.buzzfeed.com/elizabethlilly/sweet-doughnut-gifts-for-anyone-with-good-taste?utm_term=.be5lR5Mk1X#.yuwWA1jGNa

6. Doughnut Underpants

Super cute pictures, boys wear them, maybe instantly enhance the girl’s good feeling.

https://www.shopspring.com/products/23738528?query=donut

7. Sugar DonutPillow

Doughnut pillow-soft and comfortable trap, that’s all! Watching TV at home, reading books and playing mobile phones are necessary accessories. Not only can be used as a pillow cushion, if you can do that, you can put it under your butt as a cushion.

http://www.zazzle.com/sugar_donut_pillow-256376888078812855

8. Doughnut Hand Sanitizer Bottle

Super pink and tender bottle body design, even the handle is small and fresh pink, so washing hands has become a pleasant thing.

http://www.claires.com/ProductDetails.ice?ProductID=68709

10. Doughnut Cup Mat

This is a group of super-cute Cup Mat I recently purchased, four packages, from the shape, original flavor, hazelnut flavor, strawberry flavor, banana flavor, all exquisite to say nothing.

https://www.shopspring.com/products/9199357?query=donut

11. Donut Bath Bomb

https://www.etsy.com/listing/398233753/bath-bombs-donut-bath-bomb-donut?

Have you ever thought about a perfect bubble bath with doughnuts? When you put it in warm water, the doughnuts will melt, the bubbles will come up slowly, and it was like entering a wonderland.

https://www.etsy.com/listing/398233753/bath-bombs-donut-bath-bomb-donut?

12. Doughnut Backpack

A chic backpack, although all doughnuts, but with black, gorgeous and not vulgar, carry it is particularly good-looking.

http://intl.target.com/p/accessory-innovation-16-snack-attack-donut-kids-backpack-black/-/A-16817459

13. Donuts Poster

Make the kitchen more elegant, feeling warm and different.

http://www.retroplanet.com/PROD/62933.html

14. Doughnut Frisbee

Even if you throw a lot of Frisbees in your childhood, you’ve never played like that! The doughnut not only has a super-realistic sugar needle, but also is inexplicably bitten.

http://us.asos.com/big-mouth/big-mouth-donut-frisbee/prd/6606987?iid=6606987

15. Doughnut Temporary Tattoo

A super cute temporary Tattoo. It’s so beautiful to put it on your body in the summer. Now because it is too hot to sell out easily, buy early if you like.

https://www.etsy.com/listing/243193177/mini-donut-temporary-tattoos?

After seeing so many donut gifts, are you interested in donut products? Let’s be Allies and collect them together.

The post Tasty Gifts For Doughnut Lovers appeared first on GS-JJ.COM.

First, as the basic step of cosmetic, liquid foundation is very important. It is as the name implies, the foundation of your whole make up. Armani liquid foundation always has a good reputation as it can plying-up with your face perfectly and has a strong ability to conceal. But the price is quite high. Under this situation, the perfect liquid foundation comes into the market. When compared with Armani liquid foundation this one has rather a low price and a relatively good concealability, even students can afford it. But you still need to watch the description closely, because everyone’s skin status is different.

Then, we pay attention to the eye shadow. The Etude House eye shadow is very popular among students as well, because the color disk is very suitable for daily use and has a variety of color match. The price is not high compared with the degree of color and the exquisite of powder. Otherwise, the Tomford eye shadow occupies the top position of this category. The excellent powder, and the color match, makes you become the party queen in no minutes.

The last step is the lipstick which can be considered the soul of your make up. The lipstick of YSL is the favorite of young girls around me. YSL’s lipstick is silky, easy to color, long-lasting and moisturizing, and its appearance is very fashionable. But the price might not a satisfying one for some people. The price of 3CE lipstick is really friendly when compared with YSL. If you have a limited budget, you can choose the 3CE lipstick.

Generally speaking, girls in modern age tend to wear make up more, so which one is your favorite cosmetic item? There are still lots of cosmetic brands not mentioned in this post. Our company is specialized in the manufacture of custom enamel pins, and some time ago, we have a client ask to customize her favorite cosmetic items into lapel pins, and Eyeshadow Custom Pins. If you have any idea about it, please get in touch with us.

The post Girls Word: Cosmetic appeared first on GS-JJ.COM.