How To Make Enamel Pins with Shrink Dinks

Introduction to Enamel Pins and Shrink Dinks

Enamel pins have become a popular way to express individuality, commemorate events, or promote brands. They are typically made from metal and feature colorful, durable designs. Shrink Dinks, on the other hand, are a type of shrinkable plastic that can be used to create various crafts. Combining these two materials can yield unique and personalized enamel pins. This guide will walk you through the process of making enamel pins using Shrink Dinks.

Materials Needed

Before starting, gather the following materials:

• Shrink Dinks plastic sheets

• Permanent markers or colored pencils

• Scissors

• Oven or heat gun

• Baking sheet and parchment paper

• Pin backs and strong adhesive (e.g., E6000 glue)

• Optional: Acrylic sealer or resin for added durability

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Design Your Pin

Start by creating a design for your enamel pin. You can draw your design directly onto the Shrink Dinks plastic sheet using permanent markers or colored pencils. Keep in mind that the design will shrink to about one-third of its original size, so make your initial drawing larger than the desired final size.

Step 2: Cut Out the Design

Once you are satisfied with your design, carefully cut it out using scissors. Be sure to leave a small border around the design to ensure it remains intact during the shrinking process.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to the temperature specified on the Shrink Dinks packaging, usually around 325°F (163°C). If you are using a heat gun, ensure you have a heat-resistant surface to work on.

Step 4: Bake the Shrink Dinks

Place your cut-out design on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for the recommended time, usually 2-3 minutes. You will see the plastic curl and then flatten out as it shrinks. Once it has flattened, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely.

Step 5: Add the Pin Back

Once your Shrink Dinks design has cooled, attach a pin back to the reverse side using a strong adhesive like E6000 glue. Allow the glue to dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Step 6: Seal the Pin (Optional)

For added durability and a glossy finish, you can seal your pin with an acrylic sealer or resin. Apply the sealer or resin according to the manufacturer's instructions and allow it to cure completely before handling the pin.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some additional tips to help you create high-quality enamel pins with Shrink Dinks:

• Test Your Design: Before committing to a final design, create a test piece to see how the colors and details will look after shrinking.

• Use High-Quality Markers: Permanent markers or colored pencils designed for use on plastic will yield the best results.

• Avoid Overheating: Be careful not to overheat the Shrink Dinks, as this can cause them to become brittle or discolored.

• Smooth Edges: If the edges of your pin are rough after cutting, you can gently sand them with fine-grit sandpaper.

• Experiment with Shapes: Don't be afraid to experiment with different shapes and sizes to create unique and eye-catching designs.

Conclusion

Making enamel pins with Shrink Dinks is a fun and creative way to produce personalized accessories. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can create unique pins that showcase your artistic talents. Whether you're making pins for yourself, as gifts, or to sell, the possibilities are endless with Shrink Dinks. Happy crafting!