Photo etched pins are an excellent alternative to the higher end cloisonne and soft enamel pins, as they are more affordable and still retain valuable quality. Created out of a thinner metal, photo etched lapel pins are made by using an acid-reaction process to transfer an image onto a thin metal plate. After the transfer, colors are then carefully applied by hand using specialized syringe-like instruments.  The pins will then be cut from the metal, polished, and an optional protective epoxy dome can be applied to extend the durability of your pin.  Although thinner than our other lapel pins, photo etched pins are still able to withstand wear and tear, and they last as long as our other pins.