What are Die Struck pins and Die Cast Pins?
When it comes to enamel pins, there are a lot of terms to navigate. Two commonly heard terms are “Die Struck Pins” and “No Color Enamel Pins.”. Enamel pins begin their journey as raw metal sheets or molds, ready to be shaped into intricate designs that reflect stories, brands and moments.
At their core, both Die Struck Pins and Die Cast Pins can fall under the category of No Enamel Pins, emphasizing their raw metallic finish. However, they are crafted using different materials. These pins do not include enamel filling, highlighting the raw metallic beauty of their designs. The way they are made and their final finishes define their distinct characteristics.
So where do these pins truly begin, and what separates them as they evolve? Let’s dive deeper into what these terms mean and how they differ from other enamel pin options.
Table of Content
1. What are Die Struck Pins?
Die struck pins are typically made from durable metals like iron or brass, which are pressed into detailed molds, giving them superior strength and versatility. The die leaves raised and recessed areas, creating a detailed impression of the artwork.
Die Struck Pin - Die Struck pins are suitable for simple shapes like circle, square, rectangle.
Finishing Touch: After the die is pressed, the pin is polished and given a metallic finish—polished gold, silver, copper, or antique styles. Enamel can optionally be added to fill the recessed areas for a colorful result, but die-struck pins shine on their own with a minimalist, metallic appeal.
Look and Feel: Bold, sharp edges with precise detailing. Often favored for logos, text-based designs, or designs requiring a professional look. The design size needs to be smaller than 2 inches.
Best For: Corporate branding, awards, or when you want a timeless, simple and clean finish.
2. What are Die Cast Pins?
Die cast pins are created by pouring molten metal into a mold. Unlike the stamping process in die-struck pins, die-cast molds allow for intricate shapes and 3D designs that standard pressing cannot achieve. Die cast pins are crafted using zinc alloy, ideal for creating smooth, rounded or 3D shapes. Unlike iron, zinc alloy is magnetic which limits the direct use of magnetic backings.
Finishing Options: These pins can remain raw and metallic (similar to no enamel pins) or be filled with enamel to add colors. They are known for their smoother, more rounded edges.
Look and Feel: Dimensional and sculptural with softer transitions in curves and edges. Ideal for designs where detail and shape are more important than sharp precision. The sizing is only applicable if the design is above 2 inches.
Best For: Complex shapes, characters, or designs requiring a three-dimensional look.
Die Cast Pin - Complex design with cut gaps ( see image above) cannot be made as die struck. They have to be made as Die Cast. Image Source : Custom Pins Now
3. Die Struck VS Die Cast Pins
| Feature | Die Struck Pins | Die Cast Pins |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturing | Pressed using a die into metal sheets. | Molded by injecting molten metal. |
| Appearance | Clean lines, sharp edges. | Smooth curves, rounded and unique shapes. |
| Material | Iron or Brass. | Zinc Alloy. |
| Magnetic Backing | Easy on iron. | Requires metal addition to work with magnets. |
| Size of Pin | Under 2 inches | Above 2 inches. |
| Design | Best for flat designs and detailed logos. | Ideal for complex, 3D, or curved designs. |
| Cost | Cost-effective for simpler production. | Slightly more costly due to the molding process. |
4. When Should I Choose What?
The type of pin you choose depends on your design needs and the story you want your pin to tell:
Pin image source - aaa
Choose Die Struck Pins If:
You want a sleek, metallic look without color.
Your design involves crisp lines, text, or symbols.
Choose magnetic backings when your die-struck pins are made of iron for a clean and removable attachment.
You need something professional for awards or corporate events.
Choose Die Cast Pins If:
Your design requires 3D details or intricate shapes without color.
You’re working with playful characters, mascots, or custom forms.
You want a smoother finish with sculptural elements.
Consider traditional backings to avoid additional material costs and adjustments
5. Conclusion
Understanding the differences between die-struck pins and die-cast pins can be key to choosing the right product for your brand. If you're looking for a pin that's sophisticated and minimalistic, a die-struck pin would be perfect. But if you’re after creative shapes and smoother edges, die-cast is your best bet!
Take these tips into account to select the pin style that fits your brand personality or commemorative design!
If you’re still confused, let’s get in touch and we can help you choose the right pin for your branding needs.
6. FAQs
Q1: Are die struck and no enamel pins the same thing?
A: Yes, no enamel pins are essentially die struck pins without any enamel filling. They showcase the metallic finish and detailed stamping, giving them a sleek and professional appearance.
Q2: Can die cast pins have no enamel?
A: Yes, die cast pins can also be left without enamel. This allows the natural metallic finish to stand out, which works well for designs with intricate curves or 3D elements.
Q3: What’s the best backing for die struck pins?
A: The most common backings for die struck pins are butterfly clutches, rubber clutches, and magnetic backings. If the pin is made of iron, magnetic backings are especially practical because of the material’s natural magnetic properties.
Q4. Are die struck pins stronger than die cast pins?
A: Yes, die struck pins are typically more durable because they are made by pressing the design into a solid sheet of metal, such as iron or brass. Die cast pins, while still durable, are slightly less sturdy due to their mold-casting process.
Q5. How can I add color to a die struck or die cast pin later?
A. To add color, enamel filling is applied to the recessed areas of the pin, transforming it into a soft or hard enamel pin. This should be decided during production, as retrofitting color after manufacturing isn’t typically possible.