Pin Collecting Basics: How to Display and Care for Enamel Pins

Quick answer

Display enamel pins on a felt-covered corkboard or canvas banner, keeping them out of direct sunlight. Store extras in a soft binder or padded box with backings attached. Clean gently with a microfiber cloth, and replace worn rubber clutches with locking pin backs to prevent loss.

You've got a growing pile of enamel pins and you want to show them off without risking scratches or lost backings. The good news: a few simple habits keep your collection looking sharp and secure, whether you display a handful on a jacket or rotate dozens on a wall board.

This guide walks through the steps for displaying, storing, and caring for enamel pins, with checkpoints to avoid common mistakes. We'll also cover when to upgrade backings and how to handle specialty pins like the Critical Role Pin No. 3 - Mighty Nein Crest.

Choose a display surface that protects the finish

Enamel pins have a hard, glossy surface that can scratch if it rubs against metal or rough fabric. Corkboards covered with felt or canvas are ideal because the soft layer cushions the pin and prevents the metal post from scraping. Avoid directly pinning into bare cork or painted walls, which can dull the plating over time.

For a portable option, a canvas banner with grommets lets you hang your collection and roll it up for travel. If you prefer a frame, use a shadow box with a fabric backing and leave at least half an inch of space between the pin and the glass so the enamel doesn't press against it.

• Checkpoint: Press a pin into your chosen surface. If it wobbles or the post feels loose, add a layer of felt.
• Mistake to avoid: Pinning directly into a wall or hardboard can bend the post and chip the enamel edge.

Arrange pins to prevent scratches and crowding

Spacing matters more than you think. When pins touch, the metal edges can rub and leave fine scratches on the enamel. Leave at least a quarter inch between each pin, and group by size or theme to make the board look intentional. Heavier pins, like large hard enamel designs, should go toward the center where the backing has more support.

If you're displaying on a jacket or bag, place pins on areas that won't brush against zippers or buckles. A crossbody bag with a dedicated pin area or a felt-lined pouch keeps them from knocking together.

• Checkpoint: After arranging, gently press each pin. If any shift, tighten the backing or add a locking clasp.
• Mistake to avoid: Overcrowding a small board forces pins to overlap, which is the fastest way to scratch them.

Secure backings and know when to replace them

Rubber clutches wear out and lose grip, especially if you swap pins often. Replace them with locking pin backs or metal butterfly clasps that hold tighter. For pins you wear regularly, a locking back is worth the small investment. If a post is bent, gently straighten it with needle-nose pliers before adding a new backing.

When replacing a backing, match the post diameter. Most standard pins use a 0.8 to 1mm post, but some specialty pins have thicker posts. A backing that's too loose will slide off; too tight and you risk bending the post.

• Checkpoint: Give each pin a gentle tug after securing. If the backing slips, swap it for a locking style.
• Mistake to avoid: Using pliers on the enamel face can chip it. Always grip the post near the base, not the design.

Clean enamel pins without damaging the finish

Dust and skin oils dull the shine. Wipe pins with a dry microfiber cloth after wearing them. For deeper cleaning, dampen a cloth with warm water and a drop of mild dish soap, then wipe the metal and enamel. Dry immediately with a soft cloth. Avoid alcohol, acetone, or abrasive cleaners, which can strip the plating or cloud the enamel.

If a pin has a textured or antique finish, use a soft-bristle toothbrush to reach crevices. Never submerge pins in water; moisture can seep behind the enamel and cause discoloration over time.

• Checkpoint: After cleaning, hold the pin to a light. If you see water spots, buff gently with a dry cloth.
• Mistake to avoid: Soaking pins in water or using jewelry cleaner can damage the adhesive and plating.

Store the rest of your collection safely

For pins not on display, a binder with felt pages or a padded box keeps them organized and protected. Keep backings attached so posts don't snag on fabric. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, which can fade enamel colors over years.

If you're traveling to a convention, a hard-shell case with foam inserts prevents crushing. Label sections by set or theme so you can find a pin quickly without digging.

• Checkpoint: Shake your storage case gently. If you hear rattling, add more padding.
• Mistake to avoid: Storing pins loose in a jar causes scratches and bent posts.

Your 5-step pin care routine

1. 1. Set up a soft display surface: Cover a corkboard with felt or use a canvas banner. This cushions pins and prevents scratches. Checkpoint: Press a pin in; if it wobbles, add another layer of felt.
2. 2. Space pins at least a quarter inch apart: Crowding causes metal edges to rub and scratch enamel. Group by theme for a clean look. Mistake to avoid: Overlapping pins on a small board.
3. 3. Upgrade to locking backings: Replace worn rubber clutches with locking pin backs to keep pins secure, especially on wearable items. Checkpoint: Tug gently; if it slips, swap the backing.
4. 4. Clean with a dry microfiber cloth: For deeper cleaning, use a damp cloth with mild soap, then dry immediately. Never soak pins. Mistake to avoid: Using alcohol or abrasive cleaners.
5. 5. Store extras in a padded binder or box: Keep backings on and store in a cool, dry place away from sunlight to prevent fading. Checkpoint: Shake the case; if it rattles, add padding.

Product facts

• Critical Role Pin No. 3 - Mighty Nein Crest: Pin #3 of the Critical Role Pin series, 1.5 inches, made of copper plated zinc alloy with hard enamel and an embossed Critical Role logo on the back. The hard enamel surface resists scratches better than soft enamel, but the copper plating can tarnish if exposed to moisture, so dry it promptly after cleaning.
• You Can Certainly Try Pullover Hoodie: Features a kangaroo pocket and a large screen print of the Critical Role logo on the back. If you pin onto the hoodie, avoid the screen-printed area; pins can leave holes in the print and the print can dull the pin's finish.

With a soft display surface, a few locking backings, and a quick wipe-down routine, your enamel pins will stay shiny and secure for years. Start with the pins you wear most, then expand your display as your collection grows.