Lapel pins have long been cherished as stylish accessories that can add a touch of personality to any outfit. These small but mighty adornments come in countless designs, representing everything from pop culture references and brand logos to sentimental symbols and causes. But lapel pins are not just for wearing on your jacket or hat; they can also be the star of a wide range of DIY craft projects.
Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or a beginner looking to add some flair to your creations, lapel pins offer a versatile and creative way to elevate your DIY projects. From home decor to fashion accessories, the possibilities are endless when it comes to crafting with pins. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore a variety of unique DIY crafts that you can create using pins. We’ll also provide tips on sourcing and selecting the perfect pins for your projects.
The Appeal of Crafting with Lapel Pins
Before we dive into specific craft ideas, let’s take a moment to explore why pins are such a fantastic material for DIY projects. Their appeal lies in several key characteristics that make them ideal for crafting.
1. Versatility
Lapel pins come in a wide range of designs, shapes, and sizes, making them incredibly versatile for crafting. Whether you’re working on a small, intricate project or a larger piece, there’s a lapel pin to suit your needs. The variety of themes and styles available also means you can find pins that match any aesthetic or project idea.
2. Personalization
One of the most appealing aspects of pins is their ability to add a personal touch to any project. With pins representing everything from favorite hobbies and interests to meaningful symbols and memories, you can use them to create crafts that are uniquely yours. Personalized projects make great gifts or keepsakes that carry special significance.
3. Durability
Lapel pins are typically made from durable materials like enamel, metal, or PVC, making them a long-lasting addition to your DIY crafts. Unlike some other embellishments, pins won’t easily break, fade, or wear out, ensuring that your projects stand the test of time.
4. Reusability
If you’re looking to refresh or update your DIY projects, lapel pins offer the advantage of reusability. You can easily remove or swap out pins from one project to another, giving you the flexibility to change things up without starting from scratch.
Sourcing and Selecting Lapel Pins for DIY Crafts
Before you start crafting, you’ll need to source and select the right lapel pins for your projects. Here are some tips to help you find the perfect pins.
1. Explore Different Themes and Styles
Lapel pins are available in countless themes and styles, from vintage-inspired designs to modern, minimalist pieces. Consider the theme of your project and look for pins that complement it. For example, if you’re creating a travel-themed craft, you might look for pins featuring maps, airplanes, or famous landmarks.
2. Consider Size and Shape
The size and shape of lapel pins can vary widely, so it’s important to choose pins that fit the scale of your project. Smaller pins work well for intricate or delicate crafts, while larger pins can serve as statement pieces in your designs. Be mindful of the pin’s shape as well, as some shapes may be better suited for certain projects than others.
3. Mix and Match
Don’t be afraid to mix and match different lapel pins to create a unique and eclectic look. Combining pins of various sizes, shapes, and themes can add visual interest and depth to your projects. Experiment with different combinations to see what works best for your design.
4. Shop Vintage and Custom
For truly one-of-a-kind projects, consider sourcing vintage lapel pins or ordering custom designs. Vintage pins often have a distinctive charm and character, while custom pins allow you to create designs that perfectly match your vision. Look for vintage pins at thrift stores, antique shops, or online marketplaces, and explore custom pin makers for personalized designs.
DIY Craft Ideas with Lapel Pins
Now that you’ve gathered your lapel pins, it’s time to get creative! Here are some unique DIY craft ideas that showcase the versatility and beauty of pins.
1. Decorative Shadow Boxes
Shadow boxes are a wonderful way to display and preserve your favorite lapel pins, turning them into a piece of art that you can proudly hang on your wall. This project is ideal for showcasing a collection of themed pins or creating a visually striking display.
Materials Needed:
- A shadow box frame (available at craft stores)
- A piece of decorative paper or fabric for the background
- Your selected lapel pins
- Pins or adhesive strips to secure the background
Instructions:
- Choose Your Background: Start by selecting a piece of decorative paper or fabric that complements the theme of your lapel pins. Cut it to fit the back panel of the shadow box.
- Arrange Your Pins: Lay out your lapel pins on the background to find the perfect arrangement. Experiment with different placements until you’re satisfied with the layout.
- Secure the Background: Attach the background to the back panel of the shadow box using pins or adhesive strips.
- Attach the Pins: Secure your lapel pins to the background. If your shadow box has a deep enough backing, you can pin them directly through the paper or fabric. Alternatively, you can use small pieces of double-sided tape or adhesive dots to attach the pins without piercing the background.
- Assemble the Shadow Box: Once all the pins are securely in place, reassemble the shadow box frame. Your decorative lapel pin display is now ready to hang on your wall or place on a shelf.
2. Custom Jewelry Pieces
Lapel pins can easily be transformed into custom jewelry pieces that add a unique touch to your accessory collection. From necklaces to bracelets, the possibilities are endless when it comes to creating wearable art with lapel pins.
Materials Needed:
- Lapel pins
- Necklace chains, bracelet bands, or earring hooks (available at craft stores)
- Jewelry pliers
- Jump rings or connectors
- Super glue or epoxy (optional, for securing the pins)
Instructions:
- Select Your Pins: Choose lapel pins that are the right size and style for your jewelry piece. Smaller pins work well for earrings or delicate necklaces, while larger pins make great statement pieces.
- Prepare the Pins: If your lapel pins have a backing post, you can leave it in place or carefully remove it with jewelry pliers, depending on your design preference. For a more secure attachment, you can use super glue or epoxy to attach the pin to the jewelry finding.
- Attach to Jewelry Findings: Use jump rings or connectors to attach the lapel pins to necklace chains, bracelet bands, or earring hooks. If you’re creating a necklace, you can use multiple pins to create a charm-style design.
- Finish the Jewelry Piece: Once the pins are securely attached, your custom jewelry piece is ready to wear. Enjoy showing off your unique creation!
3. Personalized Keychains
Turn your favorite lapel pins into personalized keychains that add a pop of personality to your keys, bags, or luggage. This simple project is quick and easy, making it a great option for crafting gifts or party favors.
Materials Needed:
- Lapel pins
- Keychain rings
- Jump rings or connectors
- Jewelry pliers
Instructions:
- Choose Your Pins: Select lapel pins that are the right size and style for a keychain. Consider using pins with strong, durable materials to withstand everyday use.
- Prepare the Pins: If needed, remove the backing post from the pin using jewelry pliers.
- Attach to Keychain Rings: Use jump rings or connectors to attach the lapel pins to keychain rings. Ensure that the connection is secure so that the pin won’t easily detach.
- Add to Keys or Bags: Your personalized keychain is now ready to use. Attach it to your keys, bags, or luggage for a stylish and functional accessory.
4. Customized Denim Jackets and Apparel
Denim jackets are the perfect canvas for displaying lapel pins, allowing you to create a customized piece of clothing that reflects your personality and style. This DIY project is all about self-expression, so feel free to get creative with your design.
Materials Needed:
- Denim jacket (or other apparel such as hats, backpacks, or vests)
- Lapel pins
- Needle and thread (optional, for added security)
Instructions:
- Plan Your Design: Start by laying out your lapel pins on the denim jacket to plan your design. Consider grouping pins by theme, color, or size to create a cohesive look. You can arrange them on the collar, chest pockets, sleeves, or back of the jacket.
- Attach the Pins: Once you’re happy with the layout, attach the lapel pins to the jacket. Simply push the pin posts through the fabric and secure them with the backing. For added security, you can stitch around the pin posts with a needle and thread to keep them in place.
- Wear with Pride: Your customized denim jacket is now ready to wear. Show off your unique style by sporting your pin-covered jacket at concerts, festivals, or casual outings.
5. DIY Pin Boards
Create a dedicated space to display and organize your lapel pin collection with a DIY pin board. This project allows you to keep your pins easily accessible while also creating a stylish piece of decor for your home or office.
Materials Needed:
- Corkboard or foam board
- Frame (optional, for a polished look)
- Fabric or decorative paper (optional, to cover the board)
- Lapel pins
- Push pins or adhesive strips (for mounting the board)
Instructions:
- Choose Your Board: Start by selecting a corkboard or foam board as the base for your pin board. If you want a more polished look, you can add a frame around the board.
- Cover the Board (Optional): For a more decorative appearance, cover the corkboard or foam board with fabric or decorative paper. Secure the covering with adhesive or staples on the back of the board.
- Arrange Your Pins: Lay out your lapel pins on the board to plan your arrangement. You can group them by theme, color, or size, or create a random, eclectic display.
- Attach the Pins: Once you’re satisfied with the layout, push the pins into the board to secure them. The corkboard or foam board provides a soft surface that makes it easy to rearrange the pins as needed.
- Mount the Board: Use push pins or adhesive strips to mount the pin board on the wall. Your DIY pin board is now ready to display your lapel pin collection in style.
6. Personalized Picture Frames
Add a touch of flair to your favorite photos by decorating picture frames with lapel pins. This DIY project is a great way to create personalized gifts or add a unique touch to your home decor.
Materials Needed:
- Picture frame (wood, metal, or plastic)
- Lapel pins
- Hot glue gun or super glue
Instructions:
- Select Your Frame: Choose a picture frame that complements the design of your lapel pins. A plain frame works best, as it allows the pins to be the focal point.
- Plan Your Layout: Arrange the lapel pins around the frame to plan your design. Consider placing them along the edges or corners of the frame for a balanced look.
- Attach the Pins: Use a hot glue gun or super glue to attach the lapel pins to the frame. Apply a small amount of glue to the back of each pin and press it firmly onto the frame. Allow the glue to dry completely.
- Insert Your Photo: Once the pins are securely attached, insert your favorite photo into the frame. Your personalized picture frame is now ready to display or gift.
7. Holiday Ornaments
Create festive holiday ornaments using lapel pins to add a personalized touch to your Christmas tree or holiday decor. This project is a fun way to incorporate your pin collection into your seasonal decorations.
Materials Needed:
- Lapel pins
- Clear plastic or glass ornaments (available at craft stores)
- Ribbon or string
- Small embellishments (optional, such as glitter, beads, or faux snow)
- Hot glue gun or super glue
Instructions:
- Choose Your Ornaments: Select clear plastic or glass ornaments that allow the lapel pins to be the focal point. You can also use solid-colored ornaments if you prefer a different look.
- Prepare the Pins: If your lapel pins have backing posts, you can either leave them in place or carefully remove them with jewelry pliers, depending on how you want to attach them to the ornament.
- Decorate the Ornaments: Use a hot glue gun or super glue to attach the lapel pins to the ornaments. If using clear ornaments, consider adding small embellishments like glitter, beads, or faux snow inside the ornament for added flair.
- Add Ribbon or String: Tie a ribbon or string to the top of the ornament for hanging. You can use festive colors that match your holiday decor.
- Hang and Enjoy: Your personalized holiday ornaments are now ready to hang on your tree or display around your home. These unique ornaments add a special touch to your holiday celebrations.
8. Upcycled Tote Bags
Transform a plain tote bag into a stylish and personalized accessory by decorating it with lapel pins. This DIY project is perfect for adding a pop of color and personality to your everyday carryall.
Materials Needed:
- Canvas or fabric tote bag
- Lapel pins
- Needle and thread (optional, for added security)
Instructions:
- Choose Your Tote Bag: Start with a plain canvas or fabric tote bag as your base. Neutral colors like black, white, or beige work well, but you can also use a colored bag that complements your pins.
- Plan Your Design: Lay out your lapel pins on the tote bag to plan your design. Consider placing pins on the front, sides, or even the straps of the bag. You can create a themed design or mix and match different pins for an eclectic look.
- Attach the Pins: Secure the lapel pins to the tote bag by pushing the pin posts through the fabric and fastening them with the backing. For added security, you can stitch around the pin posts with a needle and thread to keep them in place.
- Carry in Style: Your upcycled tote bag is now ready to use. Whether you’re heading to the grocery store, the gym, or the beach, your personalized tote bag will make a stylish statement.
9. DIY Pin Cushions
Turn your favorite lapel pins into decorative accents for a DIY pin cushion. This project is both practical and stylish, making it a great addition to your sewing kit or a thoughtful gift for a friend who loves to sew.
Materials Needed:
- Small fabric scrap (felt, cotton, or linen work well)
- Stuffing (polyester fiberfill or cotton)
- Needle and thread
- Lapel pins
Instructions:
- Cut the Fabric: Start by cutting a small square or circle from your fabric scrap. The size will depend on how large you want your pin cushion to be.
- Sew the Pin Cushion: Fold the fabric in half (if using a square) or bring the edges together (if using a circle) and sew along the edges, leaving a small opening for stuffing.
- Stuff the Pin Cushion: Turn the fabric right-side out and stuff it with polyester fiberfill or cotton until it’s firm. Sew the opening closed.
- Decorate with Lapel Pins: Once your pin cushion is complete, decorate it with your favorite lapel pins. The pins add a decorative touch and can also be used to hold needles and pins while you work on your sewing projects.
- Use or Gift: Your DIY pin cushion is now ready to use or gift to a friend. It’s a practical and charming addition to any sewing kit.
Get Creative with Lapel Pins
Lapel pins are more than just fashionable accessories—they are versatile tools that can elevate your DIY craft projects to the next level. Whether you’re creating home decor, personalized gifts, or unique fashion pieces, lapel pins offer endless possibilities for creativity and self-expression. From shadow boxes and jewelry to tote bags and holiday ornaments, the craft ideas outlined in this article demonstrate the many ways you can use lapel pins to add a personal touch to your creations.
As you embark on your crafting journey, remember to experiment with different themes, styles, and combinations of lapel pins. Let your imagination run wild, and don’t be afraid to mix and match to create one-of-a-kind pieces that reflect your personality and passions. With a little creativity and the right lapel pins, you can turn any project into a work of art.
If you are interested in ordering some high-quality lapel pins, feel free to call us at our Toll free number 1-877-513-4811 or fill out one of our FREE QUOTE FORMS.
