Choosing the Right Pin Back for Your Jacket or Bag
By Dripface Stour | Published: 2026-10-17
Category: Buying Guides
Learn how to choose the best pin back for your jacket or bag. Compare rubber, metal, and locking options with practical decision rules.
Quick Answer
For everyday wear on jackets or bags, rubber pin backs offer a secure grip without scratching. If you need extra security for high-movement areas or valuable pins, locking pin backs provide the most protection. Choose based on fabric thickness, activity level, and how often you swap pins.
Understanding Pin Back Types
Pin backs come in three main types: rubber, metal, and locking. Rubber backs are flexible, grip gently, and won't scratch surfaces. Metal backs are more durable but can loosen over time. Locking backs, like butterfly clutches or locking clasps, provide the strongest hold and are ideal for pins you don't plan to move often.
Match Pin Back to Fabric and Use
Thicker fabrics like denim or canvas can accommodate most pin backs, but thin or delicate materials may benefit from lighter rubber backs to prevent pulling. For high-movement items like bags that get tossed around, locking backs reduce the risk of losing a pin. Consider how often you change pins: if you swap frequently, rubber backs are easier to remove.
Decision Rules for Pin Backs
- Rubber pin backs: Flexible and grip well on most fabrics without scratching. Best for casual wear and frequent pin changes. Choose rubber for everyday versatility.
- Metal pin backs: More durable but can loosen over time. Suitable for low-movement placements like lapels. Choose metal for stationary display.
- Locking pin backs: Provide the strongest hold, ideal for high-movement areas or valuable pins. May require more effort to remove. Choose locking for security and peace of mind.
Pin Backs in Action
- GREG pin: GREG pin is an enamel lapel pin with rubber pin backing, size 1.25 inches. The rubber backing provides a secure grip without scratching your jacket or bag, and the 1.25-inch size is small enough for lapels or bag straps.
- I'VE HEARD ABOUT YOUR MOUTH - organic cotton tote bag: I'VE HEARD ABOUT YOUR MOUTH tote bag is made from 100% certified organic cotton twill, measuring 16″ × 14 ½″ × 5″. The sturdy cotton twill can handle pin backs without tearing, making it a practical canvas for displaying enamel pins like the GREG pin.
Which Pin Back Should You Pick?
Best for
- Casual everyday wear on jackets or bags where you might swap pins often
- Delicate or thin fabrics that need a gentle grip without pulling
Not for
- High-movement items like backpacks in heavy use, where locking backs are safer
- Valuable or sentimental pins that you rarely move, where locking backs offer more protection
