Collecting pins is a fun hobby that combines personal expression with a sense of nostalgia. From vintage treasures to modern designs created by pin badge maker companies with years of experience, pins have become popular collector’s items worldwide. If you are drawn to vintage pieces and love modern, customised designs, building a collection allows you to create a unique display that reflects your personality and interests.
From choosing themes to finding rare pieces, the process requires a bit of knowledge and strategy. This guide will walk you through the steps to start your assortment and build it into something that stands out.
Why Collect Pins?
They hold a special place in the world of accessories, as they can convey messages, show off interests, serve as keepsakes, or just be a cool addition to one’s outfit. Many people enjoy pins because they are small, affordable, and come in a wide variety of designs, which makes them an accessible entry point for collectors. Gathering them offers a way to connect with history, culture, and fashion trends across generations.
Each pin tells a story, whether it’s from a specific era, a brand collaboration, or an event. They have a unique charm that appeals to collectors and allows them to showcase their personalities in a meaningful way.
How to Get Started?
Find Your Theme
Some are drawn to specific types of pins, such as vintage ones from a certain era, while others may prefer modern enamel pieces with quirky designs. Choose a theme to create cohesion within your collection and make it more organised and visually appealing. Some popular themes here include:
- Travel and souvenirs: Pins from different cities, landmarks, or events as souvenirs of places visited or memories made.
- Pop culture: These feature characters from favourite films, TV shows, or books and capture iconic figures in miniature form.
- Historical and vintage: Vintage pins often feature designs from the 1920s to the 1980s and offer a glimpse into past styles and trends.
- Nature and wildlife: Designs with animals, plants, or scenic designs are popular among nature enthusiasts.
Scour Markets, Online Shops, and Events
Flea Markets and Vintage Shops
These places are often treasure troves for unique and vintage designs. Flea markets and vintage shops frequently have a variety of styles, from Art Deco to mid-century modern, that add character to a collection.
Online Marketplaces
Websites like eBay, Etsy, and Depop are popular among those who are looking for specific pins or rare finds. Many small businesses also sell them through these platforms, which makes it easy to support independent creators.
Conventions and Other Events
Conventions like comic cons or fairs are excellent places to find pop culture and rare pins. At these events, you’ll meet other collectors and potentially trade pins to diversify your assortment.
Specialised Retailers
Some retailers and artisans specialise in custom designs. Many independent producers sell their creations online and offer high-quality enamel pieces with unique designs. When buying online, check reviews and seller reputations, especially when it comes to vintage or limited-edition pins, to ensure you’re receiving genuine items.
Learn to Understand Pin Types
Pins come in various materials and styles, each with its unique appeal. Understanding these differences helps you choose the pieces that align with your aesthetic preferences and collection theme.
- Enamel: Enamel pins are popular for their bright colours and durable finish. They are often made with hard or soft enamel and are available in both modern and vintage designs.
- Metal: Metal pins have a classic, understated look, typically without colour. They are often embossed or etched, which creates a monochromatic design that appeals to minimalists.
- Button: These are lightweight, affordable, and often feature printed designs. They are common for events, bands, and pop culture.
- Gemstone or rhinestone: Often found in vintage collections, these are made with sparkling stones that add glamour to the piece.
Take Care of Your Collection
Store it in a cool, dry place to prevent tarnishing or damage. Use jewellery boxes or display cases with separate compartments to prevent scratches. If you want to display your pins, your options include:
- Boards: Felt or cork boards are popular among collectors, as they allow you to arrange and rearrange your pieces easily.
- Frames and shadow boxes: Create a decorative display by framing your pins. Shadow boxes add depth and protect your pieces from dust.
- Jackets and bags: Some enjoy wearing their pins on jackets, hats, or bags and add a personal touch to their daily style.
How to Build Value in Your Collection
Limited-edition pins, pins with historical significance, or those from popular brands tend to hold value well. Learn to identify these qualities, and you will be able to grow a collection that’s not only beautiful but potentially valuable.
Build value and research rare pieces, as limited-edition or exclusive ones from specific events or brand collaborations often become valuable over time. Keep pins in good condition and be sure to preserve original backing cards or packaging to enhance their value — something that should be done when building any collection.
The Social Side
Joining special topical communities, either online or in person, allows you to share your passion, trade, and learn from others. Many collectors are happy to share tips on where to find rare designs or how to care for valuable items.
Social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook have groups dedicated to the hobby, where enthusiasts showcase their assortment and connect with others. Attending these events or conventions can also offer opportunities to meet people who share your interests and perhaps find new additions to your collection through trades.
The Joy of Custom and Personalised Pins
While finding vintage and rare pins is rewarding, custom ones add a unique touch to any collection. Many people enjoy commissioning or designing custom pieces that reflect their personal style, interests, or achievements. Customised pins can be a meaningful way to commemorate special events or add something truly unique to your style.
Pin makers offer services that allow people to make custom designs with their chosen colours, shapes, or symbols. These can become memorable pieces that represent something mass-produced items may not capture. They can also blend personal significance with artistic design and stand out in any assortment.
Keep the Passion Alive
The art of pin collecting is one that grows with you and changes as you find new interests and themes. Many people start with a single theme and expand into new areas with time. Finding inspiration from peers, historic pin designs, or emerging trends keeps the hobby fresh and engaging.
Pin collecting is a way to capture the world in miniature form, celebrate individuality, and share your personality in a tangible way. With time, patience, and a keen eye, you will build an assortment that is as meaningful as it is beautiful.
