myPins.com - Pin Trading Tutorials

How to Trade Pins and Build Your Collection



Pin trading is a great way to connect with fellow enthusiasts and build your collection. Following these basic steps will help you get started with pin trading and ensure you have a positive and enjoyable experience. Happy trading! 😊

  • Choose a Theme: Decide on a theme or focus for your collection. This could be anything that interests you, such as the Olympic Games, Disney characters, Hard Rock Cafe guitars, sports teams, landmarks, or events.
  • Start with Basics: Begin by purchasing pins from online stores, events, or local shops. Look for starter sets or bulk lots to get a variety of pins.
  • Join Communities: Connect with other pin enthusiasts by joining online forums, social media groups, or local clubs. This will give you access to trading opportunities and advice from experienced collectors.
  • Attend Events: Look for pin trading events, conventions, or meet-ups where you can buy, trade, and showcase your pins. These events are great places to find unique and limited-edition pins.
  • Display and Organize: Use pin boards, books, or lanyards to organize and display your collection. This will help you keep track of what you have and make it easier to show others.
  • Trade Wisely: Engage in pin trading with other collectors. Always follow pin trading etiquette, be polite, and aim for fair trades. More about this topic can be found below!
  • Learn and Research: Educate yourself about the history, value, and rarity of pins in your collection. This knowledge will help you make informed decisions when buying or trading.
  • Keep Growing: Continuously look for new additions to your collection. Whether it’s online auctions, store releases, or trades, always be on the lookout for pins that fit your theme.

Getting Ready to Trade

Initiating pin trading is an exciting step to connect with fellow enthusiasts and expand your collection! Here's some guidance on how to get started:

  • Prepare Your Pins: Select a variety of pins from your collection that you're willing to trade. Ensure they are in good condition and organized for easy display.Use a pin trading book, lanyard, or board to showcase your pins. This makes it easier for others to see what you have available for trade.
  • Find Trading Locations: Look for places where pin trading commonly happens, such as:
    • Events and Conventions: Many events have designated areas for pin trading.
    • Online Communities: Join pin trading forums, social media groups, or dedicated websites.
    • Local Meet-Ups: Check if there are local pin trading clubs or meet-ups in your area.
  • Approach Other Traders: At events or meet-ups, approach other collectors with a friendly attitude. Introduce yourself and express your interest in trading. Online, you can start by joining discussions and posting about your available pins.

Pin Trading Etiquette

Pin trading etiquette is essential for ensuring a pleasant and respectful experience for everyone involved. You will come across individuals who have very little trading knowledge to those who have traded for many years. Use this opportunity to learn and practice proper etiquette and enjoy the experience! Here are some key points to keep in mind:

  • Look for Pin Traders: People who want to trade pin usually show their pins in full view on their vest, hat, scarf, lanyard, shirt, jacket or even a towel. If you want to look at their pins, approach them and politely ask if they would like to trade.
  • Be Polite and Respectful: Always approach other traders with a friendly attitude. Use polite language, say "please" and "thank you," and respect their decisions if they decline a trade.
  • Ask About Their Collection: Show interest in the other person's collection and ask if they are open to trading. Be respectful and courteous in your approach. If you are unfamiliar about a pin, it is appropriate to ask the wearer for additional information, such as its value or whether the design is a limited edition.
  • Ask Permission: Never touch someone else's pins without asking for permission first. It's considered impolite to handle someone else's collection without their consent. If you need a closer look, ask the person if they can bring the pin into clearer view. Sometime they will take the pin off their garment for you to inspect more closely. These same rules apply to you when someone asks you to show them your pins.
  • Negotiate Fair Trades: Aim for trades where both parties feel satisfied. This usually means trading pins of similar value or rarity. Avoid offering low-value pins for highly sought-after ones.
  • Display Your Pins Clearly: Use a pin trading book, lanyard, or board to display your pins. This makes it easier for others to see what you have available for trade. Your pins should be in good, undamaged condition.
  • Honesty is Key: Be honest about the condition and authenticity of your pins. If a pin is damaged or a replica, disclose this information before making a trade.
  • The Trade: Remember that while you are looking for a pin to acquire, the person you are trading with will also be looking for an acceptable pin for their collection. If you ask for a certain pin, they will want to choose an equivalent trade from your collection. Similarly, if they ask for one of your pins, you will look at what they have and choose a pin that will be an acceptable trade. If both parties are happy with the trade, trade one pin at a time, hand to hand, with the pin backs attached. On occasion, you may come across a proposal to trade multiple pins for a single pin. This is only acceptable if the value of that single pin is substantially higher than the pins the other person is providing. A thorough knowledge of the value of pin designs is always necessary to ensure that the trades are fair. If you are unsure about the value of a pin, or the fairness of a proposed trade, seek the advice of another pin trader, or others in your party. Remember, it is always acceptable to politely decline a trade. Following the trade, always thank the other person for the opportunity to exchange pins, and, if you desire, ask to initiate another trade.
  • Patience and Courtesy: Be patient and courteous during the trading process. Rushing or pressuring others may lead to misunderstandings and a less enjoyable experience. Never feel pressured into making a trade that you are not comfortable carrying out. Furthermore, never force a trade on another person. They must be satisfied with the trade as well. Also remember to never interrupt a trade between two other individuals. Wait until their trading is finished before approaching them. Finally, it is advisable that children trade pins with a parent present.
  • Accept When a Trade Does Not Happen: If a trade doesn't work out, remain polite and move on to the next opportunity. The pin you are looking for is probably just around the corner and that collector may be more willing to trade.
  • Respect Event Rules: If you're trading at a specific event, follow any guidelines or rules set by the organizers. This ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone.
  • Enjoy the Experience: Pin trading is not just about the pins; it's about connecting with others who share your passion. Enjoy the experience, the stories behind each pin, meeting new people, sharing stories, and building your collection.

Organizing Your Collection

Organizing your pin collection can make it easier to display, keep track of, and enjoy. Select a display method that suits your needs and space. Here are some options to consider:

  • Pin Boards: Cork boards or foam boards covered in fabric work well for displaying pins.
  • Pin Books: Specialized books with pages designed to hold pins.
  • Lanyards: For a portable option, use lanyards to display and organize your pins.
  • Frames: Create a decorative display by framing your pins under glass.
  • Organize by Theme or Category: Group your pins by theme, such as Olympic Games, Disney characters, sports teams, or locations. This makes it easier to find specific pins and adds a cohesive look to your collection.
  • Use Labels: If you have a large collection, consider labeling sections of your display to keep track of different categories or themes.
  • Track Your Collection: Keep a record of your pins in a spreadsheet or a dedicated pin-tracking app. Note details like the pin's name, date acquired, and any special features or stories associated with it.
  • Rotate Displays: If you have more pins than space, consider rotating your display periodically. This keeps your collection fresh and allows you to showcase different pins at different times.
  • Protect Your Pins: Ensure your pins are stored in a way that protects them from damage. Avoid exposing them to excessive moisture or direct sunlight, which can cause fading or rust.
  • Show Off Your Collection: Share your organized collection with friends, family, and fellow enthusiasts. Displaying your pins in a visually appealing way makes it more enjoyable for everyone to appreciate.

Pin Collecting Guides

The following online and printed pin collecting guides will help answer many questions about this exciting hobby and where to go for print and online information.

Pin Collecting Clubs

Pin clubs help promote the hobby and camaraderie of lapel pin collecting. The members of many clubs will come together during pin shows, where collectors can trade with each other face-to-face. The following pin clubs and pin shows are located around the world, and concentrate on many different types of pins.