Quick answer
Display enamel pins on a soft fabric board or corkboard with locking pin backs, and keep them away from direct sunlight and humidity to prevent tarnish and fading.
Why display method matters for enamel pins
Enamel pins are coated metal, but the glossy finish can scratch against hard surfaces or rub off on rough fabrics. The metal backing (often gold or silver) may tarnish if exposed to moisture or air over time. A good display method protects both the enamel face and the clasp.
Pins like the Original Elder Dice 3-Pin Enamel Set have a metallic gold clasp that can bend if forced onto thick fabric. The Seal of Yog-Sothoth pin’s detailed tentacled design needs enough clearance so the edges don’t snag.
5 Steps to Display Enamel Pins Safely
- Choose a soft, stable backing: Use a corkboard, felt-covered board, or foam core. Avoid hard surfaces like bare wood or metal that can scratch the enamel. For heavy pins like the Elder Dice set, ensure the board is thick enough to hold the clasp securely. Test with a small pin first to confirm the board holds without bending the clasp.
- Use locking pin backs for security: Standard butterfly clutches can loosen over time, especially if you move the board. Replace them with locking rubber or metal backs that require a twist to release. This prevents pins from falling off and getting damaged. Check backs monthly—rubber can dry out and crack after a year.
- Keep pins out of direct sunlight: UV rays can fade the enamel colors, especially on lighter pins like the Yellow Sign Pin. Display your board in a spot that gets indirect light only. If you must use a windowed frame, add UV-protective glass. Rotate pins every few months to even out any fading.
- Avoid high humidity and moisture: Humidity can tarnish the metal backing and cause the enamel to lift. Keep the display area below 50% relative humidity. Avoid bathrooms, kitchens, or damp basements. A small silica gel pack near the board helps. Wipe pins with a dry microfiber cloth before returning them to the board.
- Space pins so they don't touch: When pins touch, the enamel can chip or scratch each other. Leave at least half an inch between pins. For pins with raised details like the Seal of Yog-Sothoth, give extra clearance so the tentacles don't rub against neighbors. Use a ruler or a grid template when arranging to maintain consistent spacing.
Product facts
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Original Elder Dice Pins - 3 Pin Enamel Set Red Wax Style: The Original Elder Dice 3-Pin Enamel Set features glossy enamel-coated metal with a metallic gold clasp on the back. The glossy finish is prone to scratches, so use a soft backing like felt or cork, not bare wood or metal.
Original Elder Dice Pins - 3 Pin Enamel Set Red Wax Style
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Seal of Yog-Sothoth Enamel Pin: The Seal of Yog-Sothoth pin has a tentacled skull-shaped head with many eyes, a detailed raised design. Raised details can snag on loose-weave fabric; choose a smooth or tight-weave display board to avoid damage.
Seal of Yog-Sothoth Enamel Pin
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Yellow Sign Pin - Gold and White Enamel: The Yellow Sign Pin is gold and white enamel, and attaching it to a shirt, hat, or backpack is common. If you display it on a bag or hat, the pin may rub against other items; use a locking back or a dedicated display board to keep it secure.
