Imagine walking into a room and seeing a stunning display of vibrant lapel pins, each one telling a unique story. Instead of hidden away in drawers or boxes, these tiny treasures are showcased in creative and eye-catching ways. If you’ve been collecting lapel pins but haven’t figured out how to display them, you’re not alone. Many collectors struggle with turning their collections into beautiful displays. Let’s dive into six innovative techniques that will transform your lapel pin collection into a centerpiece you’ll love.
Lapel pins are more than just small pieces of metal; they are tokens of memories, achievements, and passions. As your collection grows, finding ways to display them can be both a challenge and an opportunity to express your creativity. This article will guide you through six innovative display techniques that not only showcase your lapel pin collection but also enhance your space. We’ll address common concerns and provide practical solutions to help you create displays that are as unique as your collection.
1. Shadow Boxes
Elevate Your Collection:
Shadow boxes are an excellent way to give your lapel pins the attention they deserve. These deep-set frames allow you to create layered, three-dimensional displays that can be hung on walls or placed on shelves.
Detailed Technique:
- Layering and Depth: Shadow boxes provide the perfect opportunity to create a multi-layered display. Use foam core or cardstock to add depth behind certain pins, making them pop out more than others. This adds a dynamic, three-dimensional effect to your display.
- Backgrounds and Themes: Customize the background of your shadow box to enhance the theme of your collection. For instance, if you collect pins from different countries, use a world map as the background. If your collection is sports-related, a background featuring a stadium or sports field can add context and visual interest.
- Arranging Pins: Carefully plan the arrangement of your pins. Group them by theme, size, or color to create a cohesive and visually pleasing display. Use small amounts of adhesive or double-sided tape to keep pins in place without damaging them.
Objection Handling:
Some might think shadow boxes are too bulky or complicated to assemble.
Solution:
Shadow boxes come in various sizes and styles, making it easy to find one that fits your space and skill level. Start with a smaller box and gradually expand as you become more comfortable with the display process. Additionally, premade shadow boxes with compartments can simplify the setup process.
2. Cork Boards and Fabric Boards
Simple and Versatile:
Cork boards and fabric boards offer a simple yet effective way to display your pins. They provide a large surface area and are easy to update as your collection grows.
Detailed Technique:
- Cork Board Setup: Purchase a cork board that fits your available space. Consider covering it with fabric that complements the colors of your pins or the theme of your collection. Attach the fabric using a staple gun or strong adhesive to ensure it stays in place.
- Fabric Boards: Similar to cork boards, fabric boards add an extra layer of texture and color. You can use foam board covered with your chosen fabric or purchase a pre-made fabric bulletin board. These boards are gentle on the pins and add a touch of elegance to your display.
- Organizing Pins: Arrange your pins in patterns or sections. For example, you might create a border of smaller pins around larger, more significant ones. Grouping pins by category (e.g., sports teams, travel destinations) helps keep the display organized and visually appealing.
Objection Handling:
Worried about the pins falling out or the board looking cluttered?
Solution:
Secure the pins by using backing clasps and keep the design organized by creating sections or themes on the board. Regularly update and rearrange the pins to maintain a fresh and appealing display. Additionally, consider using thin ribbons or strings to create boundaries between different sections on the board.
3. Display Cases
Professional Touch:
For a more polished look, consider using display cases. These cases protect your pins from dust and damage while showcasing them like mini museum exhibits.
Detailed Technique:
- Choosing a Case: Display cases come in various styles, from simple glass-front cases to elaborate wooden cabinets. Choose one that fits your collection’s size and your home’s decor. Ensure the case has a sturdy frame and a secure closure to keep your pins safe.
- Custom Shelving: Some display cases come with adjustable shelves, allowing you to customize the interior layout. Arrange the shelves to accommodate pins of different sizes, creating a balanced and visually appealing display.
- Lighting: Adding small LED lights inside the display case can highlight your pins and create an attractive focal point. LED strips or puck lights work well and are easy to install. Make sure the lights do not generate excessive heat that could damage the pins.
Objection Handling:
Display cases can be seen as expensive or too formal.
Solution:
Look for affordable options online or consider DIY display cases using repurposed materials like old picture frames or small shelves. This approach can save money and add a personal touch to your display. You can also find display cases at thrift stores or garage sales and refurbish them to fit your needs.
4. Hanging Canvases
Artistic Flair:
Turn your lapel pin collection into an art piece by using hanging canvases. This method is perfect for creating a dynamic and flexible display that can easily be changed.
Detailed Technique:
- Preparing the Canvas: Start with a blank canvas of your desired size. You can paint the canvas in a solid color, create a background design that complements your pins, or leave it plain for a minimalist look. Make sure the canvas is thick enough to hold the pins without sagging.
- Arranging Pins: Plan your layout before attaching the pins. Consider grouping them by theme, color, or size to create an organized and visually appealing arrangement. Attach the pins by pushing them through the canvas fabric, securing them with backing clasps if needed.
- Creative Displays: Use multiple canvases to create a gallery wall effect. Each canvas can represent a different theme or collection, making your display more engaging and versatile. You can also add decorative elements like stencils, stickers, or fabric patches to enhance the overall look.
Objection Handling:
Concerned about damaging the canvas with pinholes?
Solution:
Use a thicker, more durable canvas and consider reinforcing the back with a layer of cardboard or foam. This way, the pins can be secured without causing significant damage to the canvas. Alternatively, you can use a self-healing cutting mat behind the canvas to provide additional support.
5. Rotating Display Stands
Interactive and Engaging:
Rotating display stands add an interactive element to your collection, allowing you and others to view the pins from all angles. These stands are great for desks or tabletops and provide a dynamic way to showcase your collection.
Detailed Technique:
- Choosing a Stand: Look for a rotating display stand that suits the size of your collection. Jewelry display stands or even spinning spice racks can be repurposed for this use. Ensure the stand is sturdy and has enough space between layers to accommodate your pins.
- Customizing the Stand: Modify the stand to better suit lapel pins. Attach foam, cork, or fabric-covered boards to the stand’s hooks or shelves to create surfaces where you can pin your collection. This customization allows you to easily remove and rearrange pins without damaging them.
- Arranging Pins: Organize your pins by themes, such as events, teams, or colors, on different sections of the stand. This makes it easy to view specific parts of your collection at a glance. The rotating feature allows for an engaging and interactive experience, making it easy to showcase your entire collection.
Objection Handling:
Some might find these stands take up too much space or are difficult to find.
Solution:
Choose compact rotating stands or create your own using a lazy Susan base and a custom stand. This DIY approach can be both space-saving and cost-effective. Additionally, small, tiered display stands can fit easily on a desk or shelf without taking up too much room.
6. Custom Frames
Personalized Elegance:
Custom frames allow you to tailor the display to fit your collection perfectly. You can create a cohesive look that matches your home decor while highlighting your pins beautifully.
Detailed Technique:
- Selecting a Frame: Choose a frame that complements the style of your collection and your home decor. Frames with deep-set mats or shadow box styles are particularly effective for lapel pins, providing the necessary depth to accommodate pin backs without pressing against the glass.
- Custom Matting: Use custom-cut mats to create individual slots for each pin. This keeps the pins organized and prevents them from moving around within the frame. You can get mats custom-cut at a framing shop or use a craft knife and cutting mat to do it yourself.
- Background Enhancement: Enhance the frame’s background to add visual interest. This could involve using a piece of fabric that complements your pins, a photograph that relates to the theme of your collection, or even a piece of cork or felt that adds texture and depth.
- Arranging Pins: Carefully plan the layout of your pins before attaching them to the background. Consider grouping them by theme, color, or size to create a visually appealing arrangement. Use small amounts of adhesive or mounting tape to keep the pins in place without damaging them.
Objection Handling:
Custom frames might seem expensive or hard to make.
Solution:
Consider starting with standard frames and customizing them yourself. Use DIY tools and materials from craft stores to create a professional-looking frame without the high cost. Additionally, many stores offer sales or discounts on framing materials, making it more affordable to create a custom display.
Conclusion
Transforming your lapel pin collection into a stunning display is easier than you might think. By exploring these six innovative techniques, you can showcase your pins in a way that reflects your personal style and the unique stories behind each pin. Whether you choose shadow boxes, cork boards, display cases, hanging canvases, rotating stands, or custom frames, there’s a method that’s perfect for you. Embrace the creativity and joy that comes with displaying your collection, and watch as your pins become a captivating centerpiece in your home.
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.
