Imagine opening your trading pin collection, expecting to see your prized pins gleaming brightly, only to find them tarnished, scratched, or discolored. It’s a disheartening sight for any collector. The good news? With the right care and maintenance, you can keep your trading pins looking as stunning as the day you got them. Let’s explore the best practices to ensure your pins remain in pristine condition for years to come.
Trading pins are not just collectibles; they are pieces of art and history that hold sentimental value. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a beginner, proper care and maintenance of your pins are essential to preserve their beauty and value. This article provides ten best practices for custom pin care and maintenance, addressing common concerns and offering practical tips to keep your pins shining.
1. Store Pins Properly
Avoid Humidity and Extreme Temperatures:
Store your pins in a cool, dry place to prevent tarnishing and discoloration. Humidity and extreme temperatures can cause pins to degrade over time.
- Example: Use airtight containers or pin albums with plastic sleeves to protect your pins from moisture and temperature fluctuations.
Some might think that storing pins in airtight containers is unnecessary.
Solution:
Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the integrity of your pins. Airtight containers provide an additional layer of protection against environmental factors that can damage your collection.
2. Handle Pins with Care
Avoid Touching the Front:
Always handle your pins by the edges or use gloves. Oils and dirt from your hands can cause discoloration and tarnish.
- Example: Use a soft cloth or cotton gloves when handling your pins to prevent fingerprints and smudges.
Some might find using gloves inconvenient.
Solution:
If gloves are inconvenient, ensure your hands are clean and dry before handling pins. Using a soft cloth to handle pins can be an easy and effective alternative.
3. Clean Pins Regularly
Gentle Cleaning:
Regularly clean your pins to remove dust and dirt. Use a soft, damp cloth and gently wipe the surface. Avoid abrasive materials that can scratch the enamel.
- Example: A microfiber cloth lightly dampened with water is ideal for cleaning the surface of your pins without causing damage.
Worried about damaging the pins during cleaning.
Solution:
Use minimal pressure and avoid harsh chemicals. For stubborn dirt, a gentle soap solution can be used, followed by thorough drying with a soft cloth.
4. Avoid Exposure to Chemicals
Chemical-Free Zones:
Keep your pins away from perfumes, lotions, and cleaning agents. Chemicals can cause the enamel to deteriorate and metals to corrode.
- Example: When applying perfume or lotion, wait until it’s fully absorbed before wearing pins on your clothing.
Some might feel it’s hard to avoid chemicals entirely.
Solution:
Being mindful of common chemicals and taking simple precautions, such as putting on pins after applying lotions or perfumes, can significantly protect them.
5. Use Protective Cases for Travel
Travel Safely:
When traveling with your pins, use protective cases to prevent scratches and damage. Specialized pin cases with compartments can keep pins secure.
- Example: A pin trading bag with padded slots provides safe and organized storage for your pins on the go.
Concerns about the cost of specialized cases.
Solution:
Investing in a quality case protects your pins from potential damage during travel, preserving their condition and value in the long run.
6. Rotate Displayed Pins
Preventing Wear:
If you display your pins, rotate them regularly to prevent prolonged exposure to light and dust, which can cause fading and tarnishing.
- Example: Use a display board that allows easy rotation of pins to minimize exposure and maintain their appearance.
Some might find rotating pins time-consuming.
Solution:
Set a routine, such as rotating pins every few months. This simple habit can protect your pins and keep your display looking fresh and dynamic.
7. Inspect Pins Regularly
Early Detection:
Regularly inspect your pins for signs of wear or damage. Early detection allows you to address issues before they become severe.
- Example: Check for loose clasps, scratches, or signs of tarnish and take corrective action as needed.
Concerns about the effort required for regular inspections.
Solution:
Incorporate pin inspections into your regular maintenance routine. Regularly checking your collection helps maintain its condition and catch issues early.
8. Use Pin Backs for Security
Secure Your Pins:
Use secure pin backs to keep your pins in place and prevent loss. Locking pin backs are more reliable than standard ones.
- Example: Use locking pin backs, especially for valuable or frequently worn pins, to ensure they stay secure.
Worried about the cost or inconvenience of locking pin backs.
Solution:
While locking pin backs might be slightly more expensive, they offer peace of mind by ensuring your pins remain securely fastened.
9. Display with Care
Proper Display Techniques:
If you display your pins, use methods that minimize exposure to dust and light. Shadow boxes or glass-front cases can protect your pins while showcasing them.
- Example: A shadow box with UV-protective glass can display your pins attractively while protecting them from harmful light.
Concerns about the expense of protective display cases.
Solution:
Investing in a good display case protects your collection and enhances its presentation, making it a worthwhile expense for serious collectors.
10. Educate Yourself Continuously
Stay Informed:
Keep learning about pin care and maintenance from reputable sources and experienced collectors. Continuous education helps you stay updated on best practices.
- Example: Join online forums, follow pin trading blogs, and participate in collector groups to gain insights and tips.
Some might feel overwhelmed by the amount of information available.
Solution:
Focus on a few reliable sources and gradually build your knowledge. Engaging with a community of collectors can make learning more enjoyable and manageable.
Conclusion
Keeping your trading pins in pristine condition is an essential part of the collecting hobby. By following these best practices—proper storage, careful handling, regular cleaning, and using protective measures—you can ensure your pins remain beautiful and valuable. Embrace these tips to maintain your collection’s shine and enjoy the satisfaction of preserving your cherished pins.
If you are interested in buying high quality custom lapel pins, you can call us at 866-246-9375 or fill out a FREE quote here.
