Locking pin backs and clutches
The back decides whether a pin stays on a jacket for years or disappears on the first day. Here is every back we offer, what it is good for, and when a locking back is worth the extra $0.52.
- Free proof in 24 hoursAn artist draws your pin to scale, every color matched to Pantone.
- Proof before productionRevise your digital proof before we make your pins.
- Duties includedDelivered to the US, Canada, UK and Australia with shipping and import duties paid.
- Photos before shippingYou see your finished pins before they leave the factory.
Every back we offer
| Back | How it holds | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rubber clutch | Friction on the post | Most pins, giveaways, trading pins | Included |
| Butterfly (military) clutch | Two spring wings grip the post | Uniforms, formal lapel pins | Included on request |
| Locking back | Spring-loaded lock, released with a pull or a set screw | Pins worn daily, backpacks, collectors | +$0.52 |
| Magnetic back | Magnet through the fabric | Scrubs, silk, leather, no holes | +$0.74 |
| Safety pin back | Hinged pin and catch | Lanyards, ribbons, fabric badges | Quoted |
| Screw and nut | Threaded post and nut | Hats, jackets worn hard | Quoted |
Do I need locking pin backs?
Choose locking backs if the pins will be worn every day on bags, jackets or hats, if they are collectibles people will be upset to lose, or if they are trading pins traded and pinned many times. Locking backs grip the post with a spring and do not slide off when brushed. For pins worn occasionally on a suit, a butterfly clutch is enough. Our guide types of pin backs compares them in detail.
Two posts on larger pins
Pins 1.5 inches and larger get two posts so they do not spin. Each post gets its own clutch.
Ordering backs for existing pins
If you already have pins and want locking backs for them, we can add a bag of locking backs to any order. Contact us with the post diameter (most pins use a standard 1.2 mm post).
Price
Locking backs add $0.52 per post in place of rubber clutches. Example: 100 soft enamel pins at 1.25 inches with locking backs cost $3.55 plus the upgrade. See the pricing page.
Designs to make your own
Every design is a starting point: our artists change the text, colors and logo, then send a free proof.
How ordering works
Choose your pins
Select a design, size, quantity and options. Buy online with PayPal or card, or send an inquiry first.
Free proof in 24 hours
An artist sends a scale drawing with every color matched to Pantone, the metal finish and the back. Revisions are unlimited.
Approve your proof
Confirm the design before production. If you requested a quote first, pay through the link in your approved quote.
Made and delivered
Standard delivery within 30 business days, rush 10, express 5. Duties are already paid.
Customize every detail
Your proof shows every choice before you pay. Most options cost nothing extra; add-on prices are listed openly on the pricing page.
Six finishes for the raised metal lines and edges, all included.
- Shiny gold, silver or copper
- Antique gold, silver or copper
- Antique finishes on soft enamel and die struck
- Real plating samples in our sample pack
From everyday clutches to backs that never come loose.
- Rubber or butterfly clutch
- Locking back for uniforms
- Magnetic back, no holes
- Screw and nut for awards
Ready to hand out, sell or present at a ceremony.
- Individual poly bag, included
- Velvet pouch
- Clear plastic box
- Velvet gift box
Details that make people stop and look twice.
- Glitter and glow enamel
- Translucent enamel
- Cut-outs
- Rhinestones and epoxy dome
Pictures are product renderings. Your free proof shows the exact finish, back and packaging for your order.
What is the most secure pin back?
A locking back. It uses a spring lock that does not release unless you pull its collar or loosen its set screw.
Are rubber clutches good enough?
For most giveaways and occasional wear, yes. They hold well and are comfortable against the skin.
What is a butterfly clutch?
A metal clutch with two curled wings that pinch the post. It is the traditional back on military and formal pins.
Do magnetic backs work on jackets?
On most jackets yes; on thick wool coats the magnets may not hold. See magnetic pins.
Tell us about your pin
An artist replies within 24 hours with a digital proof and a price that already includes shipping and import duties. Nothing is charged until you approve.
- A phone photo of a sketch is enough to start
- Not sure about size or style? We recommend one
- Unlimited revisions until the proof is right
- We reply by email; no calls unless you ask
Prefer email? Write to hello@enamelore.com
Thanks, your request is in.
Your request has been sent to our team. You will receive a free digital proof and a delivered price by email within 24 hours.