If you’ve been following any recent political campaigns, you’ve probably noticed that politicians on both sides of the aisle often wear custom lapel pins during speeches and events. There’s a long tradition of wearing lapel pins in politics, and they’re often worn to signify support for a specific party, cause, or campaign. If you’re launching your own campaign or want to show support for an existing one, wearing a political lapel pin is a very effective way to do so. At Lone Star Challenge Coins, we offer custom-designed political lapel pins . Whether you want to cheer on a specific candidate or are just feeling patriotic, we’ll help you create a sophisticated lapel pin that adds a touch of class to any outfit. Let’s look at the historical significance of lapel pins worn by politicians and how to design your own political lapel pins.
What Are Political Lapel Pins?
Lapel pins are small accessories that attach to the front of a jacket or dress. They are usually made from metal or enamel and feature small but eye-catching designs. Throughout the years, lapel pins have been used to signify allegiance to a specific group or cause, and this is no different in politics. They’ve become important symbols of support, especially during election years. Politicians and their teams often wear lapel pins to express support for their party or a specific issue they’re focused on. Supporters might wear lapel pins that align with a specific candidate.
Historical Significance of Political Pins
In the United States, the tradition of wearing a lapel pin dates back to the founding of our country. Politicians have been using custom campaign buttons and pins to raise awareness since the 18th century. While many presidents had already worn lapel pins for specific occasions, Richard Nixon popularized the practice in the 1970s. Nixon and his entire staff wore lapel pins featuring the American flag nearly every day during his time in office. After Nixon’s presidency, many politicians and candidates began to wear lapel pins with their day-to-day outfits, not just for special occasions. Former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright was also known for her bold lapel pins and brooches, using them to express herself and complement her professional attire. This included many patriotic pins featuring American symbolism, as well as many pins featuring animals, flowers, and other nature themes. Part of her lapel pin collection is now on display at the Smithsonian Museum in Washington, DC.
Modern Use in Campaigns
Today, candidates and their supporters wear lapel pins as part of their political campaigns. Whether you’re launching a local grassroots campaign or a high-profile candidacy, wearing a lapel pin is an effective way to show your support. Political lapel pins are also a sign of patriotism. Many feature stars, stripes, bald eagles, and other symbols associated with the United States.
Types of Political Lapel Pins
There are several types of political pins used during campaigns and day-to-day political activities. Here are some of the most common lapel pin types you’ll see.
Election Pins
Candidates and their supporters often wear lapel pins or election buttons in the lead-up to voting day. These pins are very effective for raising awareness about a specific candidate or ballot initiative or encouraging people to vote. For avid supporters, election pins also serve as memorabilia. Pins from a historic election can even become a collector’s item in years to come, especially if they are kept in good condition.
Campaign Pins
Political candidates often create custom campaign pins when running for office for their team and supporters to wear. These pins are fun promotional items for the campaign and can be used in fundraising or given out during events.
Presidential Pins
Many presidents have worn lapel pins during their campaigns and time in office. Most presidential candidates have stuck to the American flag theme, carrying on a decades-long tradition. However, some presidential candidates will branch out with other stylish and patriotic accessories.
Custom Campaign Buttons
Campaign buttons are similar to lapel pins in that they can be worn on shirts to represent a political message or cause. In contrast to pins, buttons tend to be larger and circular, and they often feature both text and images. Many of these buttons are made by sandwiching a design printed on paper between a transparent plastic layer and a metal backing.
Designing Your Own Political Lapel Pin
Interested in designing your own custom pins ? Here’s a look at how to create political lapel pins for your own campaigns.
Types of Pins
When designing custom campaign pins, you’ll have several material options to choose from. In particular, you’ll need to decide between a soft enamel or hard enamel finish. A soft enamel pin has texture, allowing you to feel the grooves between each design element. A hard enamel pin has a smooth, shiny finish. Soft enamel pins are faster and more affordable to create, so they’re often a preferable choice if you’re making pins in bulk. However, hard enamel pins are more durable and have a more sophisticated look, so many politicians prefer them, especially for TV appearances, speeches, and other significant events.
Plating and Add-On Options
You’ll also need to choose which metal plating option you’d like to use in your design. Silver and gold are both classic options — it all depends on your personal color preferences. You can also select add-ons like glitter, lights, or gemstones to make your lapel pin even more eye-catching. Add-ons are great if you’re looking for something even more striking than a traditional lapel pin.
Get Started with Your Custom Political Lapel Pins Today
Whether you’re campaigning yourself or just want to support your favorite candidate, political lapel pins are a classy, stylish way to do so. Get in touch with our team at Lone Star Challenge Coins to learn more, or start designing your own lapel pin. We offer personalized service and fast turnaround times to bring your vision to life. Get a free quote today !
