Fashion is an important part of life, and a good button, pin, or patch can really bring an outfit together. But, there are a lot more types of buttons, patches, and pins than you might think.

It’s important to pick something that really suits your style and needs. If you don’t truly love what you’re wearing, what’s the point, right?

Don’t know where to start your search? Here’s a quick guide to some of the most popular types of buttons, pins, and patches.

Types of Pins

Enamel (Soft, Hard)

Enamel pins are perhaps the most popular today. They’re durable, cheap, and create a very clear, vibrant final product. These pins flood the halls of sites like PinGod, Etsy and Hot Topic, as they’re among the most customizable and cheap to produce. 

Soft enamel and hard enamel pins are similar in look but made a little differently. With soft enamel, the metal plating is laid out first and then color is added. Hard enamel works the opposite way, with color being added first and the pin being ground down to shape.

Hard enamel makes for a slightly higher quality, finer looking pin, but there are certain styles you can only do with soft enamel-like rainbow plating. Otherwise, it’s mostly up to personal preference whether you want to use soft or hard enamel for your pins.

Die Struck

There are few more elegant looks for a pin than die struck. Die struck pins start with a die or mold shaped in the desired design of the pin. Then, a sheet of metal like copper or iron is stamped with the die, shaping the metal exactly like it.

What they lack in diversity of color they make up for in class, with an extremely strong and professional look. For businesses, schools, and any professional matter, die cast is a strong choice.

Printed Pins

A printed pin is pretty self-explanatory: The design is printed out specifically onto the pin and… well, that’s it. This means you know exactly what you’re getting if you’re going the custom route, and while these may not be the fanciest, they’re definitely some of the fastest to make.

These can also be set in epoxy for a little more of a shiny, sturdy look. If you’re a business making pins for an outing or event, or you’re looking for some great fashion on a budget, these are a great, affordable option.

Types of Buttons

Magnetic

Magnetic buttons are one of the coolest, simplest types of buttons out there today. With a magnetic button, you avoid puncturing your clothes and cut down on the time taken to latch traditional buttons. Plus they’re extremely customizable, from size to design to material.

Magnetic buttons look great on any garment, and they’re so fast and easy you’ll fall in love instantly. They’re also great for people with disabilities, as the magnets require no pressure to stick together and stay together.

Flat

There’s nothing too special about flat buttons. They’re on most of our jackets and sweaters, adorned with two or four holes through which they’re stitched into your clothing. Need I say more?

They’re very custom and can be made from pretty much anything from wood to plastic to glass, if you so choose. These are the go-to option for many button makers for a reason.

Stud

You’ll mainly see stud buttons on jeans or other denim clothing. They’re usually attached to the material a lot better than a traditional button, making them super reliable and very hard to break. Some of them can be sewn in, but they’re not of the same quality.

If you’re working with denim anything, stud buttons are a must.

Toggles

Want a more vintage button? Toggles are the way to go. Large and unique, they add a very hand-made, vintage quality to most knit garments that won’t disappoint.

If you’re learning to knit, try adding a toggle to your piece. They look great on thick sweaters and cardigans, and they’re super reliable. Plus, their size makes them easy for anyone to put together.

These are just as customizable as any button. They’re usually made of plastic or wood, but you can even get toggles with printed designs on them! That’s pretty hip.

Types of Patches

Embroidered

Affordable, quick to manufacture, and full of detail, embroidered patches are a common choice. With hundreds of colors and a fine hand-made look, embroidered patches look great on many products, like backpacks and jackets. These things really pop, and they’re always a great option.

PVC Patches

Being durable and vibrant, PVC patches are long lasting and great for outdoor applications. A little expensive then the traditional embroidered patches due the extensive manufacturing process, PVC patches are a great option for branding and also for use on work uniforms and gear, having a range of customization and attachment options like 3D, glow and velcro hook and loop available for various use cases. Make sure to buy your patches from a reputable PVC patch maker who can assist you with customizing and manufacturing your patches.

Leather Patches

These are on the more expensive side, and they take a little longer, but they look incredible. If you’re trying to get a rustic or sophisticated look, leather patches are the way to go. You can do a lot with the material, from cut-in designs, to embroidery, to dying the leather for a darker look.

Printed Patches

Like printing a t-shirt, these are easy, quick, and full of detail. You know exactly what you’re getting with a printed patch, and can put anything from a photograph to a painting to an advertisement on them. If you’re trying to fit text onto your patch, this is probably the way to go.

Woven Patches

These have a similar look to embroidered patches, but the threads are much tighter together. Basically, you can fit a lot more detail on these. Like the printed patches, you’ll be able to see text much clearer on these patches, even if it’s a bit on the smaller side.

They may not have that hand-made look of embroidered patches, but they look a lot cleaner and more professional. Wear these on bags, coats, or anything you really want.

Finding the Right Button, Patch, or Pin to Finish Your Look

There are a lot of different choices when it comes to finding the perfect types of buttons, patches, or enamel pins to make your garments stand out. But now that you know the ins-and-outs of the most popular types, you should be well prepared to find the best material and style that fits your needs. 

For more on fashion, hobbies, and a wide variety of other mom-related content, check out our other blog content.