There's nothing worse than reaching for your jacket collar and finding an empty spot where your favorite pin used to be. Pins usually fall off for simple reasons: a loose back, thin fabric or a spot that gets bumped all day.
The good news is that it's easy to prevent. Here are eight simple ways to keep your enamel pins exactly where you put them.
Why Do Enamel Pins Fall Off?
- The back wasn't pushed all the way on. A clutch that's only halfway down can slip off with a little movement.
- The back has worn out. Metal clutches can loosen after being taken on and off many times.
- The fabric is too thin or stretchy. Lightweight fabrics let the pin wobble and pull.
- The pin is in a high traffic spot. Backpack straps, seat belts and bag handles get rubbed and bumped constantly.
1. Use Locking Pin Backs
The single best way to protect a pin you love is to swap its regular back for a locking one. Locking pin backs grip the post and stay put until you release them, so they won't wiggle loose on a busy day.
Our Deluxe Locking Secure Pin Backs are made for exactly this. They're brass plated, come in gold and copper to match your pins, and fit the standard posts on enamel pins. Keep a set on hand for the pins on your backpack, hat and favorite jacket.
How to Use Locking Pin Backs
- Push the pin through the fabric. Place your pin where you want it and press the post through from the front.
- Press the locking back onto the post. Push it straight down until it sits snug against the fabric. It will hold tight on its own.
- To take it off, pull up the top to release. Lift the top of the back while you slide it off the post. That's it.
Shop Deluxe Locking Secure Pin Backs
2. Push the Back All the Way Down
It sounds simple, but it's the most common reason pins go missing. Press the back firmly down the post until it sits snug against the fabric. If your pin came with a rubber clutch, like our Lemon Pin, push it on until it grips tightly.
3. Choose Sturdy Fabric
Denim, canvas, wool and thick knits hold pins best. Very thin, silky or stretchy fabrics let the pin droop and work its way loose. If you love a lightweight top, try pinning through a seam or a double layer, like a collar or pocket edge.
4. Pick a Smart Spot
Collars, lapels, chest pockets, hat panels and bag flaps are great spots. Try to avoid places that rub against seat belts, straps or furniture all day, since constant friction can slowly push a back off.
5. Use Pins With Two Posts for Wide Designs
Larger pins sometimes have two posts on the back. These keep the pin from spinning or tilting, and they double the grip. If your pin has two posts, make sure both backs are pushed all the way on.
6. Replace Worn Backs
Metal butterfly clutches can loosen after a lot of use. If a back slides on too easily, it's time to replace it. Swapping in a locking back is an easy upgrade for your most loved pins.
7. Check Your Pins Now and Then
Give your pins a quick press once in a while, especially the ones on backpacks and bags. It only takes a second and can save a favorite pin.
8. Take Pins Off Before Washing
Washing machines and dryers are tough on pins and pin backs. Remove pins before laundry day, and store them on a cork board or their backing card until you're ready to wear them again.
Which Pin Back Is Best?
- Metal butterfly clutch: The classic back. Easy to use but can loosen over time.
- Rubber clutch: Grips the post well and is comfortable to wear. Great for everyday use.
- Locking pin back: The most secure option. Best for bags, hats and pins you can't stand to lose.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I keep my enamel pins from falling off?
Push the back all the way down, wear pins on sturdy fabric and switch to locking pin backs for the pins you care about most.
How do you take off a locking pin back?
Pull up the top of the locking back to release it, then slide it off the post.
Do locking pin backs fit all enamel pins?
Locking pin backs are made to fit the standard posts used on most enamel pins, including Plant Scouts pins.
Are rubber pin backs secure?
Rubber clutches grip well for everyday wear. For backpacks and other spots that get bumped a lot, a locking back adds extra security.
Can I wear enamel pins on a backpack?
Yes. Backpacks are one of the most popular places for pins. Just use locking backs and check them now and then, since bags get a lot of movement.
Keep Your Collection Safe
A few small habits and the right pin backs will keep your collection where it belongs. For more ideas, read our guide on how to wear enamel pins.
Shop Deluxe Locking Secure Pin Backs or browse all enamel pins.
