How to Attach and Display Lapel Pins on Gear
By Purpose-Built EDC Gear, Adventure Apparel & Expedition-Grade Tools | Published: 2026-10-26
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to securely attach lapel pins to backpacks, jackets, and hats, plus creative display ideas that protect your collection and keep pins looking sharp.
Quick Answer
To attach lapel pins securely, use locking pin backs or rubber clutches, and place them on sturdy fabric like webbing or thick seams. For display, use a corkboard or shadow box to keep pins organized and damage-free.
Choosing the Right Backing for Your Pin
Most lapel pins come with a standard rubber backing clasp, which is fine for light use. But if you're attaching a pin to a backpack or jacket that gets daily wear, consider upgrading to a locking pin back with a metal clutch. These provide a stronger hold and reduce the chance of losing a pin.
Another option is a magnetic pin back, which is easy to remove and reposition, but it may not hold as securely on thick or heavy fabrics. Think about the surface you're attaching to and how much movement the pin will endure.
Where to Place Pins for Best Visibility and Safety
Placement matters both for looks and for pin longevity. On backpacks, the best spots are webbing straps, molle loops, or the front panel—these areas are less likely to get snagged. On jackets, the lapel or chest area is classic, but avoid placing pins on thin fabric like shirt pockets where they might pull or tear.
Hats are another popular option, but be careful: the curve of a hat can stress a pin's backing. Use a flat area near the front or side, and consider a pin with a sturdy clasp.
Creative Display Ideas That Protect Your Collection
If you're not wearing your pins, display them in a way that keeps them safe and visible. A corkboard or fabric-covered foam board lets you arrange pins by theme or color, and you can easily swap them out. Shadow boxes with a glass front protect pins from dust and accidental bumps.
For EDC enthusiasts, integrating pins into a gear wall or using a dedicated pin display case can turn your collection into a functional piece of decor. Avoid storing pins loose in a drawer where they can scratch or tangle.
Step-by-Step: How to Attach and Display Lapel Pins
- Choose the right backing: If your pin has a rubber clutch, test it on the fabric. For high-wear items, replace it with a locking pin back or add a rubber stopper for extra grip. Check the backing before you commit—if it feels loose, upgrade it.
- Pick a sturdy spot: Attach pins to thick fabric, webbing, or seams. Avoid thin materials like shirt pockets or mesh that can tear or distort. Press the pin through from the front, then secure the backing firmly. If the fabric resists, use a thimble to push the pin through.
- Space pins evenly: When adding multiple pins, leave at least a finger's width between them to prevent scratching and to keep the display balanced. Plan your layout before attaching—use a ruler or your finger as a guide.
- Display with care: For off-gear display, use a corkboard, foam board, or shadow box. Arrange pins by theme or color, and avoid stacking them. Keep pins out of direct sunlight to prevent enamel fading over time.
Lapel Pins We Recommend
- PDW Black Cat Moon GID Lapel Pin: This pin features black and glow-in-the-dark white enamel on die-struck brass with silver plating, and includes a rubber backing clasp. The glow-in-the-dark detail adds visibility in low light, and the rubber clasp is easy to attach to most fabrics, though you may want a locking back for heavy use.
PDW Black Cat Moon GID Lapel Pin - PDW Vegvisir Lapel Pin: This Viking compass pin is made with enamel-filled die-struck brass and a rubber backing clasp, in a blue colorway. Its flat design and sturdy construction make it a good choice for attaching to backpack webbing or a jacket lapel without adding bulk.
PDW Vegvisir Lapel Pin
