Enamel pins are small, but they say a lot. One little pin can show off your favorite plant, your birth flower or your sense of humor. The hard part is deciding where to put it.
Whether you just bought your first pin or your collection is outgrowing its drawer, this guide covers the best places to wear enamel pins, how to arrange them, how to keep them from falling off and how to display the ones you're not wearing.
10 Ways to Wear Enamel Pins
1. On a Denim Jacket
The classic. Sturdy denim holds pins well, and the collar, chest pocket and lapel are all great spots. A single Peony Bloom Pin on the collar adds just the right pop of color. Start with one pin and add more over time.
2. On a Coat or Blazer Lapel
A single pin on a lapel looks polished and intentional. Flower pins like a Pink Orchid Pin or Sunflower Pin work beautifully here, even for weddings and special events.
3. On a Hat
Pin one to the side of a beanie, the front panel of a cap or the band of a bucket hat. It's an easy way to make a plain hat feel like yours. A bold Mushroom Enamel Pin next to the embroidery makes a cap look custom. Browse our hats for a base to start with.
4. On a Backpack
Straps, flaps and front pockets are perfect pin real estate, and a backpack can carry a whole collection. Thick canvas or nylon holds pins securely. A bright California Poppy Pin really stands out on a dark bag.
5. On a Tote Bag
A canvas tote is like a blank canvas. Add a cluster of pins near the top corner, or line them up along the strap. Our plant tote bags make a great starting point.
6. On a Lanyard or Badge Holder
Nurses, teachers and anyone with a work badge can add a little personality to the workday. A small pin like the Soil Therapy Pin is a fun conversation starter.
7. On a Scarf
Use a pin like a brooch to hold a scarf in place, or simply pin it near the knot for a pop of color.
8. On a Gardening Apron
Gardeners, this one's for you. A pin on an apron bib keeps your love of plants front and center while you work.
9. On a Sweater or Sweatshirt
Pin one near the collar or on the chest. Choose a spot on thicker knit so the pin doesn't pull the fabric.
10. On a Pencil Case, Laptop Sleeve or Planner Cover
Fabric pencil cases and planner covers are great for desk lovers who want to see their pins every day.
How to Arrange Multiple Pins
- Start with a theme. Group pins by color, by plant family or by season. A cluster of birth flower pins for your whole family looks especially sweet.
- Mix sizes. Pair a larger statement pin with one or two smaller ones so the eye has somewhere to land.
- Try odd numbers. Groups of three or five tend to look more balanced than even numbers.
- Leave a little space. Pins look best with some breathing room between them.
- Lay it out first. Arrange your pins on a table before you poke any holes, then take a photo so you remember the layout.
How to Keep Enamel Pins From Falling Off
Most Plant Scouts pins are hard enamel with a polished gold metal base, and they come with a metal or rubber clutch on the back. To keep them secure:
- Push the clutch all the way down. You should feel it click snugly against the fabric.
- Choose sturdy fabric. Denim, canvas and thick knits hold pins better than thin or stretchy fabrics.
- Use locking backs for pins you love most. Locking pin backs are sold separately and add extra security on bags and jackets that see a lot of action.
- Check your pins now and then. Clutches can loosen over time, especially on a backpack. A quick press keeps them in place.
How to Display Enamel Pins at Home
Not every pin needs to be worn every day. Here are a few ways to show off the rest of your collection:
- Cork board: Easy, affordable and simple to rearrange.
- Pin banner or felt pennant: Hang it on the wall like art.
- Shadow box: A framed box with a fabric or cork back keeps pins dust free.
- On the backing card: Every Plant Scouts pin comes on its own backing card, which looks lovely propped on a shelf or tucked into a frame.
How to Care for Enamel Pins
- Wipe them gently with a soft, dry cloth to keep the shine.
- Take pins off before washing clothes or bags.
- Keep them away from harsh cleaners and perfume, which can dull the metal.
- Store loose pins on a cork board or in a soft pouch so they don't scratch each other.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the best place to put an enamel pin?
Jackets, hats, backpacks and tote bags are the most popular spots. Sturdy fabrics like denim and canvas hold pins best.
Do enamel pins damage clothes?
Pins leave a tiny hole, which usually closes up on knits and is hard to see on denim or canvas. Avoid very thin or delicate fabrics like silk.
What is the difference between hard and soft enamel pins?
Hard enamel pins are polished flat and smooth, with a glossy, durable finish. Soft enamel pins have raised metal lines you can feel. Plant Scouts pins are hard enamel.
Are enamel pins a good gift?
Yes. They're small, meaningful and easy to mail. A birth flower pin or a pin of their favorite plant makes a thoughtful gift for almost anyone.
Start Your Pin Collection
From monsteras and mushrooms to birth flowers and funny plant sayings, there's a Plant Scouts pin for every plant person. Start with one, and don't be surprised when you want a few more.
Looking for gift ideas? See our Birth Flowers by Month guide or our gifts for plant lovers $25 & under.
