Lapel pin collecting is more than just a hobby; it’s a way to capture memories, celebrate achievements, and express personal interests. Whether you’ve been collecting pins for years or are just starting out, one of the most important aspects of this hobby is learning how to properly display and maintain your collection. With the right care and attention, your pins can remain vibrant, free from damage, and ready to be showcased for years to come.
In this article, we’ll explore 12 expert tips for displaying and maintaining your pin collection. These tips will help you protect your investment, showcase your collection in creative and attractive ways, and ensure that your pins remain in pristine condition.
1. Choose the Right Storage Environment
The environment in which you store your lapel pin collection plays a critical role in preserving its condition. Environmental factors such as humidity, temperature, and light exposure can all have a significant impact on the longevity of your pins.
Control Humidity Levels
Humidity is one of the biggest threats to pins, particularly those made of metal. Excess moisture in the air can lead to tarnishing, rust, or corrosion, especially for pins that are not made from stainless steel or are not coated with protective finishes.
- Use a Dehumidifier: If you live in a humid climate, consider using a dehumidifier in the room where you store your pins. This will help to reduce the moisture levels in the air and protect your pins from rust and corrosion.
- Store with Silica Gel Packs: Silica gel packs are an inexpensive way to control humidity in small storage spaces. Place these packs in your pin storage boxes, cases, or display cabinets to absorb excess moisture and keep your pins dry.
Maintain Stable Temperatures
Extreme temperatures can also damage your lapel pins. High heat can cause adhesives to weaken, enamel to soften, and colors to fade, while extreme cold can make metals brittle.
- Avoid Temperature Fluctuations: Store your pins in a location that maintains a stable, moderate temperature year-round. Avoid areas that are prone to temperature fluctuations, such as attics, basements, or garages.
- Keep Away from Heat Sources: Do not store your pins near heat sources such as radiators, heating vents, or direct sunlight. Excessive heat can damage the pins’ materials and finishes.
Limit Light Exposure
Exposure to direct sunlight can cause colors to fade and materials to degrade over time. To preserve the vibrant colors and details of your pins, it’s important to limit their exposure to UV light.
- Use UV-Protective Glass: If you display your lapel pins in a frame or shadow box, consider using UV-protective glass to shield them from harmful sunlight. This will help to preserve the colors and details of your pins.
- Store in Dark Spaces: When not on display, store your pins in a dark, cool place, such as a drawer, storage box, or cabinet. This will protect them from light exposure and prevent fading.
2. Handle Your Lapel Pins with Care
Proper handling is essential for maintaining the condition of your pins. Oils, dirt, and moisture from your hands can transfer to the pins, potentially causing damage over time.
Wear Gloves
To minimize the transfer of oils and dirt, consider wearing gloves when handling your lapel pins. Cotton gloves are a popular choice for collectors, as they provide protection while still allowing for a good grip.
- Cotton Gloves: Cotton gloves are soft and breathable, making them ideal for handling delicate items like lapel pins. They prevent oils and moisture from coming into contact with the pins, reducing the risk of tarnishing or discoloration.
- Nitrile Gloves: If you prefer a closer fit, nitrile gloves are another option. These gloves are durable and provide excellent dexterity, allowing you to handle small pins with precision.
Handle by the Edges
When handling your lapel pins, it’s important to avoid touching the front or back surfaces directly. Instead, hold the pins by their edges to prevent fingerprints and smudges from forming on the enamel, metal, or other surfaces.
- Use a Soft Cloth: If you need to handle the front or back of a pin, use a soft, lint-free cloth to hold it. This will help protect the surface from oils and dirt, ensuring that the pin remains clean and free from blemishes.
3. Clean Your Lapel Pins Regularly
Regular cleaning is essential for maintaining the appearance and condition of your lapel pins. Dust, dirt, and oils can accumulate on the surface of your pins, dulling their shine and potentially causing long-term damage if not addressed.
Dust with a Soft Brush
To remove dust and dirt from your lapel pins, use a soft brush, such as a makeup brush or a small paintbrush, to gently clean the surface. This method is effective for removing debris without scratching the pin’s surface.
- Soft Bristle Brush: Choose a brush with soft, fine bristles to avoid scratching the enamel or metal surfaces of your pins. Gently brush the pins in one direction to lift away dust and dirt.
Use a Gentle Cleaning Solution
For more thorough cleaning, you can use a mild cleaning solution to remove oils, fingerprints, and other residues from your lapel pins. It’s important to choose a cleaning solution that is safe for the materials used in your pins.
- Mild Soap and Water: A solution of mild soap and water is often sufficient for cleaning lapel pins. Dampen a soft cloth with the solution and gently wipe the surface of the pins, then dry them immediately with a clean, dry cloth.
- Metal Cleaner: For metal pins, you can use a gentle metal cleaner to remove tarnish and restore shine. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and test the cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire pin.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Harsh chemicals, such as bleach, ammonia, or abrasive cleaners, can damage the enamel, metal, or other materials used in your lapel pins. Always use gentle, non-abrasive cleaning products, and avoid submerging pins in water or cleaning solutions.
- Check Manufacturer Guidelines: If you’re unsure about how to clean a specific pin, check the manufacturer’s guidelines or consult with a professional before attempting to clean it. This will help you avoid damaging the pin and ensure that it is cleaned safely.
4. Organize Your Lapel Pin Collection
Organizing your lapel pin collection is key to keeping it manageable and easy to access. A well-organized collection allows you to quickly find and appreciate specific pins, while also protecting them from damage.
Categorize Your Pins
Start by categorizing your pins based on your collecting focus. This could include grouping pins by theme, event, artist, or another organizing principle that makes sense for your collection.
- Theme or Subject: Organize your pins by theme or subject, such as sports, music, travel, or pop culture. This allows you to easily find pins related to specific interests and create a cohesive display.
- Event or Location: If your collection is event-based, organize your pins by the events or locations they represent. This creates a chronological record of your experiences and makes it easy to track your collection’s growth over time.
- Size or Shape: For a more aesthetic approach, consider organizing your pins by size or shape. This can create a visually pleasing arrangement and highlight the diversity of designs within your collection.
Use Display Cases or Boxes
Display cases and boxes are an effective way to organize and protect your lapel pin collection. These storage solutions keep your pins neatly arranged and shielded from dust, dirt, and damage.
- Display Cases: Display cases with glass fronts allow you to showcase your pins while keeping them protected from dust and handling. Look for cases with foam or fabric-lined backing that securely holds your pins in place.
- Storage Boxes: Storage boxes with compartments or foam inserts are ideal for organizing pins that are not currently on display. These boxes keep your pins separated, preventing them from scratching or damaging each other.
Label and Inventory Your Collection
Keeping an inventory of your lapel pin collection is important for tracking your pins, especially as your collection grows. Labeling and inventorying your collection also makes it easier to identify missing pins, duplicates, or items that need special care.
- Create an Inventory List: Document each pin in your collection by creating an inventory list. Include details such as the pin’s name, theme, event, artist, acquisition date, and any special notes. This inventory can be kept digitally or in a physical binder.
- Label Storage Containers: If you store your pins in boxes or cases, consider labeling each container with the contents inside. This makes it easy to find specific pins without having to search through multiple containers.
5. Display Your Lapel Pin Collection Creatively
Displaying your lapel pin collection is one of the most enjoyable aspects of collecting. A well-curated display not only showcases your pins but also adds a personal touch to your living space.
Use Shadow Boxes and Frames
Shadow boxes and frames are popular choices for displaying lapel pin collections. These display options allow you to create a visually appealing arrangement while protecting your pins from dust and damage.
- Shadow Boxes: Shadow boxes are deep frames that provide space for three-dimensional objects like lapel pins. Arrange your pins inside the box on a fabric-covered backing, then secure the glass front to protect the display. Shadow boxes can be hung on the wall or placed on a shelf.
- Framed Displays: Arrange your pins on a fabric or cork backing within a traditional picture frame. This method allows you to create a piece of art that can be hung on the wall, showcasing your pins in an elegant and organized way.
Create a Rotating Display
If you have a large collection, consider creating a rotating display that allows you to showcase different pins at different times. This keeps your display fresh and gives each pin a chance to be highlighted.
- Pin Boards: Use a corkboard or fabric-covered board to create a rotating display of your pins. Simply pin your collection to the board, and change the arrangement periodically to feature different pins. This method is flexible and allows for easy rearrangement.
- Spinning Displays: Spinning displays, such as carousels or racks, allow you to showcase a large number of pins in a compact space. These displays can be rotated to view different sections of your collection, making them ideal for showcasing a diverse range of pins.
Incorporate Pins into Everyday Items
For a more creative approach, consider incorporating your lapel pins into everyday items, such as jackets, bags, or hats. This allows you to wear and display your collection wherever you go.
- Pin Jackets or Vests: Pin jackets or vests are a fun and stylish way to showcase your collection. Arrange your pins on the front, back, or sleeves of a jacket or vest, creating a personalized piece of wearable art.
- Bags and Backpacks: Attach your favorite pins to a bag or backpack for a portable display. This is a great way to share your collection with others while on the go, and it adds a personal touch to your accessories.
- Hats and Caps: Display a selection of your pins on a hat or cap. This method is ideal for smaller collections or for showcasing your favorite or most meaningful pins.
6. Protect Your Lapel Pin Collection from Damage
Protecting your lapel pin collection from damage is essential for preserving its value and appearance. With proper care and preventive measures, you can keep your pins in excellent condition for years to come.
Use Backing Cards or Foam Inserts
Backing cards and foam inserts provide an extra layer of protection for your lapel pins, especially when stored in boxes or cases. These materials help to cushion the pins and prevent them from moving around or scratching each other.
- Backing Cards: Place each pin on a backing card before storing it in a box or display case. Backing cards help to stabilize the pins and prevent them from coming into contact with other pins.
- Foam Inserts: Use foam inserts with cutouts to hold each pin securely in place. Foam inserts are ideal for storage boxes, as they provide cushioning and prevent the pins from shifting during transport or storage.
Avoid Overcrowding
Overcrowding your display or storage space can lead to pins rubbing against each other, which can cause scratches, dents, or other damage. It’s important to give each pin enough space to prevent contact with other pins.
- Space Out Pins: When arranging your pins on a display board or in a storage case, make sure to leave enough space between each pin. This prevents them from overlapping or touching, reducing the risk of damage.
- Use Multiple Displays: If you have a large collection, consider using multiple displays or storage boxes to avoid overcrowding. This allows you to keep your pins organized and protected without compromising their condition.
Secure Pins with Proper Fasteners
The fasteners used to attach lapel pins to a display or garment can affect the security and stability of the pins. It’s important to choose the right fasteners to ensure that your pins stay in place without causing damage.
- Rubber or Silicone Backings: Rubber or silicone backings are a popular choice for securing lapel pins. These backings provide a secure grip while being gentle on the pin’s post, reducing the risk of damage.
- Locking Pin Backs: For valuable or fragile pins, consider using locking pin backs that provide extra security. Locking pin backs prevent the pin from accidentally coming loose, ensuring that it stays in place.
7. Insure Your Lapel Pin Collection
If your lapel pin collection is valuable or includes rare or limited-edition pins, it may be worth considering insurance to protect your investment. Insurance can provide financial coverage in the event of loss, theft, or damage.
Appraise Your Collection
Before insuring your lapel pin collection, it’s important to have it appraised by a professional. An appraisal will give you an accurate assessment of the collection’s value, which is necessary for obtaining the right level of insurance coverage.
- Professional Appraisal: Seek out a professional appraiser who specializes in collectibles or lapel pins. They can provide a detailed report on the value of your collection, including individual pin valuations.
- Document Your Collection: Keep detailed records of your collection, including photographs, inventory lists, and receipts. This documentation will be important for both the appraisal process and for filing any insurance claims in the future.
Choose the Right Insurance Policy
When insuring your lapel pin collection, it’s important to choose a policy that provides adequate coverage for your needs. Consider factors such as the collection’s value, the type of coverage offered, and any exclusions or limitations.
- Specialized Collectibles Insurance: Some insurance companies offer specialized policies for collectibles, which may provide more comprehensive coverage than standard homeowners or renters insurance. These policies may cover a wider range of risks, including accidental damage, theft, and loss.
- Review Policy Details: Carefully review the details of the insurance policy to ensure that it covers all potential risks. Pay attention to coverage limits, deductibles, and any exclusions that may apply.
8. Monitor and Maintain Your Collection Regularly
Regular monitoring and maintenance are key to preserving the condition of your lapel pin collection. By staying proactive, you can identify and address any issues before they cause significant damage.
Inspect Your Collection Periodically
Conduct regular inspections of your lapel pin collection to check for any signs of damage, wear, or deterioration. This allows you to catch issues early and take corrective action if necessary.
- Check for Tarnish or Rust: Inspect metal pins for signs of tarnish, rust, or corrosion. If you notice any discoloration, clean the affected pins immediately to prevent further damage.
- Look for Loose Fasteners: Check that all fasteners are securely attached to the pins. If you find any loose or missing fasteners, replace them promptly to prevent the pins from falling off or getting lost.
Rotate Your Displayed Pins
If you have a large collection, consider rotating the pins on display periodically. This ensures that all pins have a chance to be showcased and prevents any single pin from being overexposed to light or other environmental factors.
- Change the Display Seasonally: Rotate your displayed pins every few months, or with the changing seasons. This keeps your display fresh and allows you to feature different pins throughout the year.
- Store Pins Not on Display: Store any pins that are not currently on display in a protective case or box. This helps to preserve their condition and makes it easy to rotate them back into the display when needed.
Re-evaluate Your Storage and Display Methods
As your collection grows, it’s important to periodically re-evaluate your storage and display methods to ensure they are still effective. You may need to invest in new storage solutions or adjust your display arrangements to accommodate new pins.
- Upgrade Storage Solutions: If your collection has outgrown its current storage setup, consider upgrading to larger or more specialized storage solutions. This ensures that all pins are stored securely and organized effectively.
- Refresh Your Display: Refresh your display periodically by experimenting with new layouts, frames, or display cases. This keeps your collection visually interesting and allows you to showcase new additions.
9. Protect Against Theft and Loss
Theft and loss are significant risks for any valuable collection, including lapel pins. Taking steps to protect your collection can help prevent these issues and provide peace of mind.
Secure Your Collection
Keep your lapel pin collection in a secure location to reduce the risk of theft. Consider storing your most valuable pins in a safe or lockable display case.
- Use a Lockable Display Case: Lockable display cases provide an added layer of security for your pins. Choose a case with a sturdy lock and consider placing it in a secure location within your home.
- Invest in a Safe: For high-value pins or entire collections, consider storing them in a fireproof and theft-resistant safe. This provides maximum protection against both theft and environmental risks.
Keep a Record of Your Collection
In the event of theft or loss, having detailed records of your lapel pin collection will be essential for filing a police report or insurance claim.
- Photograph Your Collection: Take high-quality photographs of each pin in your collection, including close-ups of any unique features or markings. These photos will serve as visual documentation of your collection.
- Maintain an Inventory: Keep an up-to-date inventory of your collection, including details such as the pin’s name, theme, acquisition date, and value. Store this inventory in a secure location, separate from your collection.
10. Participate in the Lapel Pin Community
Engaging with the lapel pin community is a great way to learn more about pin collecting, share your experiences, and discover new pins. Building connections with other collectors can also help you stay informed about best practices for displaying and maintaining your collection.
Join Online Forums and Groups
Many lapel pin collectors connect through online forums, social media groups, and communities dedicated to pin collecting. These platforms provide a space for collectors to share photos, ask questions, and exchange tips on caring for their collections.
- Facebook Groups: Join Facebook groups dedicated to lapel pin collecting, where members share their collections, offer advice, and organize trading events.
- Reddit Communities: Reddit has several communities focused on lapel pin collecting, where users can post photos, discuss pin designs, and seek advice from fellow collectors.
- Instagram: Use Instagram to connect with other collectors, follow pin designers, and share photos of your collection. Use hashtags related to lapel pin collecting to reach a wider audience.
Attend Pin Conventions and Events
Pin conventions and events are excellent opportunities to meet other collectors, discover new pins, and learn more about the hobby. These events often feature vendors, artists, and special guests who offer insights into the world of lapel pin collecting.
- Plan Ahead: Research upcoming pin conventions and events in your area or consider traveling to major events. Planning ahead allows you to make the most of your experience and ensures that you don’t miss out on exclusive pins or special offers.
- Participate in Workshops: Many conventions offer workshops or seminars on topics related to pin collecting, design, and production. Participating in these sessions can enhance your knowledge and appreciation of lapel pins.
11. Document and Celebrate Your Collection’s Growth
As your lapel pin collection grows, it’s important to document and celebrate its progress. This helps you appreciate the journey of collecting and provides a record of your achievements.
Create a Collection Journal
Keeping a journal of your lapel pin collection is a great way to document its growth and reflect on your experiences as a collector.
- Write About New Acquisitions: Document each new pin you add to your collection, including where you acquired it, why it’s meaningful to you, and any interesting stories associated with it.
- Track Milestones: Celebrate milestones in your collection, such as reaching a certain number of pins or completing a specific theme. Recording these milestones in your journal allows you to reflect on your progress as a collector.
Share Your Collection with Others
Sharing your lapel pin collection with others can be a rewarding experience. Whether you share your collection with friends, family, or fellow collectors, it’s a great way to celebrate your achievements and connect with others who share your passion.
- Host a Viewing Party: Invite friends or fellow collectors to view your collection in person. This is a fun way to showcase your pins and share the stories behind them.
- Share Online: Use social media or a personal blog to share photos and updates about your collection. This allows you to reach a wider audience and connect with other collectors around the world.
12. Stay Inspired and Keep Collecting
Collecting lapel pins is a lifelong journey, and it’s important to stay inspired and motivated as you continue to grow your collection.
Discover New Themes and Artists
As your collection evolves, consider exploring new themes or discovering new artists to keep your collection fresh and exciting.
- Explore New Interests: If you find your interests changing over time, don’t be afraid to explore new themes or categories in your collection. Expanding your collection to include different types of pins can add variety and depth to your collection.
- Support Independent Artists: Many independent artists create unique and creative lapel pins. Supporting these artists by purchasing their designs can add one-of-a-kind pieces to your collection and help you discover new favorite designers.
Set New Goals for Your Collection
Setting goals for your lapel pin collection can help you stay motivated and focused as you continue to collect.
- Complete a Themed Set: Challenge yourself to complete a themed set of pins, such as collecting all pins from a specific event, artist, or series. Achieving this goal can be a rewarding experience and add a sense of accomplishment to your collection.
- Expand Your Collection’s Reach: Consider expanding your collection to include pins from new events, locations, or cultures. This allows you to explore new areas of interest and add diversity to your collection.
Preserving and Celebrating Your Lapel Pin Collection
Collecting lapel pins is a deeply personal and rewarding hobby that allows you to capture memories, express your identity, and connect with a global community of enthusiasts. By following these expert tips for displaying and maintaining your lapel pin collection, you can ensure that your pins remain in pristine condition and continue to bring you joy for years to come.
Whether you’re organizing your collection, finding creative ways to display your pins, or engaging with the lapel pin community, the key is to approach your collection with care, creativity, and passion. As you continue to build and expand your collection, take pride in the unique story it tells—a story that reflects your experiences, interests, and the moments that matter most to you.
If you are interested in buying high quality custom trading pins, you can call us at 1-800-641-1299 or fill out a FREE quote form.
