How to Make Custom Pins? A Resin 3D Printing Guide

Making custom pins needs control over small details. You must keep edges sharp and surfaces clean. Resin 3D printing helps you achieve this without complex setups. It suits small parts where finish and accuracy matter. 

You can produce logos, badges, or simple custom designs. The process stays manageable if you follow a clear workflow. 

This guide walks through each step practically.

Why Resin 3D Printing is Perfect for Custom Pins

Resin printing captures the tiny details and sharp edges that pins need. It gives smooth surfaces with less sanding work. You can print small logos and shapes with clean lines. This makes resin a good choice for custom pins that must look neat and precise.

• Prints fine text and tiny features clearly

• Maintains sharp corners and defined edges

• Reduces the need for heavy sanding or polishing

• Produces smooth surfaces straight from the printer

• Handles detailed and complex designs well

• Keeps proportions accurate on small models

• Supports consistent results across batches

• Improves overall finish quality with less effort

What You Need to Know Before Printing Your First 3D Pin

Good pins require proper setup. Preparation saves time and material. Check your files, printer, safety gear, and tools before you start.

Sourcing or Designing the 3D Pin STL Files

Use a clean STL file with solid wall thickness. Avoid thin sections that may break. Check for mesh errors before printing. A good file reduces failed prints and saves time.

Choosing the Right Resin 3D Printer

Use an SLA or MSLA printer built for detail and repeatable results. The Reflex RS Turbo 3D Printer offers high-resolution printing that works well for small, detailed parts. It has high resolution and stable motion control. These features help pins come out with crisp edges and clean surfaces.

This printer gives sharp details and smooth surfaces without much tweaking. Auto-leveling and automatic support generation help beginners get started faster.

Setting Up a Safe and Ventilated Workspace

Resin needs careful handling. Work where air can flow. Wear gloves when handling liquid resin. Keep tools and parts clean. This reduces surface contamination and keeps prints consistent.

Selecting Tough Resins and Post-Processing Tools

Pick a resin that balances detail and strength. The UltraPrint-Production PAP10 Precise Detail Resin is made for fine detail and stable prints. It holds small features and edges well.

Use simple tools like cutters, sandpaper, and a UV curing box, or consult an essential 3D printing tools guide for a complete setup. Remove supports gently to avoid marks, and cure parts fully for strength.

Finding Reliable Pin Backs and Adhesives

Choose pin-backs that match your pin size and weight. Use a strong adhesive made for resin or metal. Apply a small, even amount. Let the bond cure fully before handling. This keeps pins secure during use.

The 6 Steps to 3D Printing and Finishing Custom Pins

You need a clear workflow to get consistent results. Each step affects surface quality and final fit. Work carefully and keep settings consistent during the process.

Step 1: Slicing and Orienting Your Pin Model

Start by loading your model into the slicer. Set the pin at a 30 to 45-degree angle, not flat. Use light supports with a 0.15mm to 0.2mm contact point to avoid marks on visible areas. Set your layer height between 30 and 50 microns for the best balance of detail and speed.

Step 2: Executing a Two-Stage Washing Protocol

After printing, take the part off the build plate carefully. You must follow a strict washing process to ensure no sticky resin remains:

• First Wash: Submerge the pin in 91% or higher Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) for 3 minutes to clean off excess liquid resin.

• Second Wash: Transfer it to a completely clean IPA bath for another 2 minutes to clear away any hidden residue. Do not skip this step.

• Drying: Let the part air dry fully before handling further. Avoid touching the surface with bare hands, and keep it clean from dust. Only move forward when the surface is completely dry.

Step 3: Removing Supports and Standardized Sanding

Soak the part in warm water to make it slightly soft before removing supports. This reduces the chance of surface damage. Use flush cutters for clean removal. After that, sand the support marks gently. Start with 400-grit sandpaper and work up to 1000-grit or 2000-grit for a perfectly smooth finish. Focus only on affected areas to avoid uneven surfaces.

Step 4: Post-Curing the Resin Pins

Place the fully dry part in a UV curing unit. Cure small pins for 2 to 3 minutes. Do not exceed 5 minutes, as over-curing makes thin parts brittle. Follow the resin guidelines for curing time. Proper curing improves strength and surface stability.

Step 5: Painting and Applying UV Resin Doming

Use of base coat in case of inadequate color coverage. The initial coat should be light to ensure that it is evenly distributed on the surface. The brush should not be overloaded, or the edges will appear thick. Allow one layer to dry completely before applying the next one. Once it is painted on, a layer of UV resin should be applied and allowed to dry to cover the surface and make it smooth and glossy. 

Use acrylic paints formulated for miniatures for the best adhesion, as the painting and detailing process here is very similar to finishing 3D printed miniatures. Cure the doming layer under UV light for 1 to 2 minutes until hard.

• Use a light base coat for even coverage

• Apply thin paint layers only

• Let each layer dry fully

• Avoid thick paint buildup on edges

• Keep strokes smooth and controlled

• Apply UV resin in a thin layer

• Spread resin evenly across the surface

• Avoid bubbles or excess resin

• Cure the resin under UV completely

• Check the finish before moving to the next step

Step 6: Final Assembly and Quality Inspection

Attach the butterfly clutch or rubber pin backing using a strong adhesive like Cyanoacrylate (CA super glue) or a two-part epoxy. Place it in the correct position before fixing. Hold it steady until the glue starts to set. After that, inspect the full pin surface for any defects. Check for scratches, dust, or uneven areas. Make sure all edges feel smooth and clean. Test the strength by gently handling the pin. Confirm the backing is firmly attached before use.

• Align the pin backing before attaching

• Use a strong adhesive for bonding

• Hold the part until the glue sets

• Check alignment from all sides

• Inspect for scratches or defects

• Ensure the surface is smooth to the touch

• Clean any dust or residue

Troubleshooting Common Resin Pin Making Mistakes

Small mistakes can ruin surface finish and fit. Most issues come from handling and material use. Fixing them early saves time and rework.

Printing Directly on the Build Plate

Printing flat on the plate causes problems. The first layers get overexposed and rough. Edges may spread and lose sharp detail. The front face can stick and deform. Tilt the pin slightly and use light supports. This keeps the surface clean and consistent.

Leaving Clear Resin Under UV Light Too Long

Clear resin reacts fast under UV light. Too much exposure turns it yellow or brittle. The surface can also become uneven or warped. Cure only for the required time. Rotate the part to keep curing evenly. Stop once the surface feels fully set.

Using Brittle Super Glue

Some superglues become hard and fragile. They can crack under small loads or drops. Pin-backs may detach during use. Use an adhesive with some flexibility. Apply a small, even amount and let it cure fully. Check the bond before final use.

Applying Unthinned Acrylic Paint

Thick paint hides fine details on small pins. It builds up on edges and fills sharp features. The finish looks uneven and heavy. Thin the paint slightly before use. Apply light coats and build color slowly. Let each layer dry before the next.

FAQ

Are Resin Pins as Durable as Traditional Metal Enamel Pins?

Resin pins work well, but they lack the extreme durability of metal or soft enamel. You can use them for light wear, samples, or display. If dropped, they may chip or crack. Metal pins handle daily use much better. Good curing helps, but it will not match metal strength.

Do I Need to Apply a Primer Before Painting Resin Pins?

Primer makes painting easier and more reliable. Paint sticks better and spreads more evenly. Without it, you may see uneven color or peeling later. Use a thin coat and let it dry fully. This step saves time during painting.

Is It Possible to Make Transparent or Stained Glass Style Pins?

You can get this effect with clear resin. Add small amounts of transparent color to control the look. Keep the layer thin so light can pass through. Too much UV can turn it yellow, so keep curing time controlled. A clear top layer helps give a smooth finish.

Conclusion

Good pin results from a resin 3d printer come from steady work at each step. Small details like washing, curing, and painting matter a lot. If you rush, defects will show on the surface. Take your time and keep each step clean and controlled. Over time, your results will become more consistent.