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What are the Different Types of Pin Backs?

You may be an avid pin collector, or you may be someone who is just starting out your pin collection. Either way, you may not have given much thought to the design process. But..did you know there are different types of pin backs? Some pin backs are more secure, while others are better for displaying. Interested in learning more? Read on to discover the most popular types of pin backs!

Butterfly Clutch

These are one of the most popular types of pin backs! They have two metal prongs that you squeeze to fasten a pin or release it. Also referred to as military clutches, these pin backs are perfect for daily wear on clothing, purses, backpacks, etc. However, if you will be using your pin under rough conditions, you may opt for another type of securing option.

Rubber Clutch

Rubber pin backs attach by being pushed into a pin’s needlepoint to fasten and release a pin. These pin backs can come in a variety of colors or shapes to match the actual pin design. Like butterfly pin backs, rubber pin backs are great for daily wear, and are actually one of the most comfortable pin backs if wearing pins against skin. Another great thing about rubber pin backs is if they are worn so much that they start losing their grip, they’re very easy to replace. Rubber pin backs are also perfect for use on pin boards because of the ease of removal.

All of The Gray Muse pins come with Rubber Clutches! Check out our full collection here.

Jewelry Clutch

Jewelry pin backs feature a metal locking mechanism that latches onto a pin needle. They are one of the more secure types of pin backs. To attach jewelry pin backs, you just push the metal nub of the clutch up before slipping the needle into the pinhole and releasing. These are popular  and are liked by many because of their graceful design. 

Deluxe Clutch

Deluxe pin backs feature an internal locking mechanism that grips a pin’s needlepoint to fasten a pin into place. Similar to jewelry pin backs, these are ideal for using on pins that are anticipated to get some rough wear because of their durability, or on thicker materials (ex: on a heavy coat, etc.).

Magnetic Backing

Magnetic backs consist of two magnets, one installed into the pin itself and another to help it attach to materials. Since pins are attached using magnets, these backings work best when fastening to thinner materials, because it will allow you to attach pins to clothes or material without creating holes. Magnetic backings are preferred with kids a lot of times, since they don’t present any sharp objects, or are great to wear with expensive clothing, since they don’t puncture the fabric.

Flathead Locking Clutch

These pin backs are super easy to take on and off. They feature an internal locking mechanism that grips the spike of your pin. These are one of the best pin backs for actually keeping a pin secure. These are perfect to use when wearing pins on backpacks, purses, or other garments that don’t come in contact with the skin because of how secure they are.

Check out our Deluxe Locking Pin backs to keep your pins in place!

Safety Pin

Most people are familiar with safety pins. These are typically preferred if you wear your pin like crazy and want to ensure that you don’t ever lose it. Since the safety pin is actually attached to the pin, it’s a lot harder for the pin to come off. Safety pins are actually ideal for pins that are to be worn on hats, since they can be fastened sideways.

deluxe locking pin back by the gray muse

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Do you have a favorite type of pin back? Have you tried them all? Do you use different backs for different things? Let us know in the comments below!

What are the Different Types of Pin Backs?

 

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