How Do Locking Pin Backs Work?

Locking pin backs are a popular choice for securing pins, offering a combination of safety and reliability. While there are many types of pin backs available, locking pin backs are often considered one of the best options. However, some may find them a bit tricky to use at first. Don’t worry – once you learn the simple trick to unlocking and locking them, you'll see just how practical and secure they can be.

In this guide, we'll walk you through how custom locking pin backs work, address common questions, and help you understand why they’re such a great choice for your pin collection. Let’s dive in!

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So, How Does a Locking Pin Back Actually Work?

Locking pin backs might seem like a complex piece of engineering, but they're actually quite simple and highly effective. Designed for security and reliability, these pin backs use a clever ball and spring mechanism to keep your badge securely in place.

Here’s how it works: Inside the locking pin back, there’s a small spring and ball positioned under the top disc. When you insert the pin’s stem into the back, the ball shifts to the side, moving along with the stem as it slides deeper into the mechanism. Once fully inserted, the ball settles into a small indentation on the pin’s stem, locking the pin securely in place. If you try to remove the pin incorrectly, the ball pushes further into the stem, making it almost impossible to detach without the right technique.

This simple yet effective design ensures that your pin stays safely fastened, giving you peace of mind whether you're wearing it every day or displaying it in your collection.

How To Put On Locking Pin Backs

  • Remove the Standard Back
  • If you're switching to a locking pin back for added security, the first thing you’ll need to do is remove the original, standard pin back from your badge. Most badges come with a regular pin back by default, so swapping it out for a locking pin back is an easy way to ensure your badge stays secure throughout the day. Once you’ve removed the standard back, you’re ready to attach your locking pin back for a more reliable, secure fit.

  • Place the Pin on the Garment
  • Once you’ve chosen your locking pin back, it’s time to proudly display your badge! Whether you're showing off your love for cars or celebrating your favorite music band, attaching your pin to the right garment is an essential step.Pins are versatile accessories that can be securely fastened to a wide range of items, including clothing, backpacks, hats, shoes, and even belts. No matter where you choose to wear your badge, the locking pin back ensures it stays firmly in place, adding a personal touch to your style.

  • Push the Back On
  • Now that your badge is in place on your garment, it’s time to attach the locking pin back. Take your locking pin back and hold it firmly between your thumb and finger. Position the back over the pin’s stem, then gently press down on the lower lip of the back.Continue pushing the pin back onto the stem until you hear a satisfying click, which means it’s securely fastened. This simple action ensures your badge stays in place throughout the day, giving you peace of mind that it won’t shift or fall off.

  • Double Check For Security
  • The last thing you want is for your brand-new enamel pin to fall off, so it’s important to make sure it’s securely fastened. After attaching the locking pin back, give it a gentle tug to ensure it's firmly in place. This simple check will give you peace of mind, knowing your pin will stay put while you're wearing it out and about. Whether you're showing off your style in town or at an event, you can wear your pin confidently without worrying about it coming loose.

How To Remove Locking Pin Backs

  • Lift the Top Disc
  • Removing a locking pin back is easy once you know the simple steps. Start by locating the small disc at the top of the locking pin back mechanism. Gently lift this disc to disengage the lock, which will allow you to remove the back with ease.This quick and straightforward process ensures that your enamel pin can be removed safely without damaging the pin or garment.

Other Common Types of Pin Backs

  • Butterfly Clutch
  • The butterfly clutch is a popular choice for securely fastening pins. It uses two small metal pieces that resemble butterfly wings to grip the stem of the badge, holding it in place. This option is relatively secure and easy to use.

  • Rubber Clutch
  • Often included with standard pin badges, the rubber clutch is made of a flexible, grippy material that holds the pin firmly in place. It’s a secure option for everyday wear and is great for lightweight badges.

  • Safety Pin
  • Typically used for larger badges, the safety pin back provides an extra layer of security. It’s a great choice for ensuring safety, especially for children’s badges, as it’s designed to minimize the risk of accidental pin pricks. Safety first!

  • Magnetic Pin Back
  • Magnetic pin backs use a strong magnet to hold your badge in place. While they offer a clean, no-puncture solution, they can sometimes become dislodged easily, especially if bumped or knocked. This makes them less secure for active or everyday wear.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What Is the Best Type of Locking Pin Back?
  • The best and most secure type of pin back is a metal locking pin back featuring a spring and ball mechanism. This design ensures that your badge stays firmly in place, offering peace of mind that it won’t fall off, no matter where you wear it. If security is your top priority, this is the ideal choice for you.

Final Thoughts

Locking pin backs are a reliable and effective solution for securing your badges to clothing, bags, and accessories. With their secure fit, you can wear your pins with confidence. Explore THE/STUDIO’s extensive collection of pins and locking pin backs to update your style today!

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