Butterfly clutch is the most widely used attachment option for lapel pins and badges. It uses a spring-loaded metal lock that slides onto the pin post and keeps the badge firmly attached during daily wear.

This backing is commonly chosen for charity ribbon pins, volunteer badges, school events, and company name pins because it offers a good balance between security and cost.

For lightweight clothing such as cotton t-shirts, polo shirts, tote bags, or lanyards, which is normally 2-3mm thick, butterfly clutches work very well. However, on thicker fabrics like denim jackets or backpacks, a stronger attachment may be recommended.

Common applications include:

• Breast cancer awareness ribbon pins
• Charity fundraising events
• Employee recognition badges
• Conference name pins

Rubber clutch is a popular backing option for cartoon badges, school event pins, Disney-style enamel pins, and children’s products. Made from soft silicone material, it securely holds the pin post while remaining lightweight and comfortable to wear.

Compared with metal butterfly clutches, rubber clutches are softer and less likely to scratch skin or damage delicate fabrics. They are easy to attach and remove, making them suitable for everyday use and frequent pin changes.

Considerations:

• Not as secure as metal butterfly clutches
• Silicone may loosen after long-term use

Magnetic pin backing is a premium option designed for people who prefer not to pierce clothing. Instead of using a traditional pin post, the badge is secured with a strong magnet and metal backing plate, allowing the pin to stay in place without leaving holes in fabric.

This backing type is especially suitable for business suits, uniforms, silk scarves, and other delicate or expensive fabrics. It is also convenient for users who frequently remove and reattach pins during events or daily wear.

Considerations:

• Not recommended for fabrics thicker than 3 mm
• Strong magnets should be kept away from pacemakers and magnetic cards

For lightweight badges under 20 g, single magnet backing works well. Heavier pins are recommended to use dual magnet backing for stronger support and better stability.

Safety pin backing is a classic and highly secure attachment option that opens and closes like a brooch, allowing easy attachment and removal. It is commonly used for larger enamel pins or items attched to thicker fabrics like denim jackets, backpacks, canvas bags, and other heavy-duty materials.

Advantages:

• Strong and reliable hold on thick materials such as denim, leather, and canvas
• Easy to reposition or reuse on different items
• Ideal for larger or heavier badge designs

Considerations: May leave visible holes on delicate fabrics

Commonly used for awareness pins such as diabetes awareness pins worn on denim jackets during awareness campaigns. It is also widely used on backpacks for charity runs and outdoor events.

When chosing a high-end backing option, we recommend the Deluxe clasp or tie tack clasp, which is more expensive compared to standard butterfly clutch, rubber clutch or safety pin options. Also deluxe clasp is slightly heavier than basic clutch or rubber options

Features:

• A metal locking mechanism with a hinged bar that securely snaps over the pin post.

Pros:

• Provides a highly secure hold, minimizing the risk of loosening during wear.

Commonly used for custom cancer ribbon pins distributed to VIP donors at fundraising banquets, as well as “Employee of the Month” lapel pins worn on business suits. It is also suitable for long-term or formal institutional use.