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What Is a Premium Pin Bag?

A premium pin bag is a must for every pin collector. It gives you the required protection, storage and portability for your pin collection. They are designed to help you easily display, show off and trade your pins with other pin traders.

Imagine being at a little league baseball tournament with a jumble of pins in a grocery bag.  You get the picture, it just doesn’t work for pin trading. 

A premium pin bag will offer the following features:  

Accessibility

A good pin bag will allow multiple pages for pins to be laid out side by side and organized by type or size or some other distinguishing feature that allows you to access and show quickly. 

Durability 

A good pin bag will be constructed of strong material such as nylon and stitched well to endure the rigors of pin trading.  The bag will be moved frequently, the zipper will be zipped and unzipped constantly, pins will be pinned and unpinned over and over again from the pin pages.  So, it needs to be durable to handle all the wear and tare of a good pin trader. 

Capacity 

A good pin bag will have a large capacity to hold hundreds of pins. The premium bags will hold 200 plus large size trading pins.  

Portability 

A good pin bag needs to be portable.  Trading implies moving around from event to event from person to person so it needs to be easily transported around.  It should include a handle and a shoulder strap for flexibility in how it is moved.

Security 

A good pin bag needs to be secure. Pins have moving parts (ie the clutch) and if the clutch falls off the pin falls out and the pin becomes lost.  So, ensure your bag is fully enclosed with a zipper closure to contain the contents in your bag. 

Protection

A good pin bag needs to protect your pins from damage.  Soft material like foam or velvet and divider sheets will help keep the face of your pins protected from scratches. 

Why a Premium Pin Bag?

You might want to have a pin bag for your collections for numerous reasons. The main reason why many people opt-in for upgrading to a premium storage pin bag is for protection, safety and aesthetics.

Avoid the Scratches

Pins can become scratched quickly, and they can also become tarnished or dirty over time as well. Storing them in a safe place can keep them from experiencing scratches, dings, and scrapes.  Also the less hand touches on the pin the less you will need to polish your collection.

Avoid Frequent Cleaning

While it's appropriate to dip them in a soap and water solution, you can limit their exposure to harsh soaps by storing them properly. This could increase the look and life of what you expect them to have while saving you time when you want to trade them.

Promote Your Style

What's also great is that the style of the bag can match your personal style and not only your needs.  Uniqueness comes at a premium. You will notice that pin bags come in a variety of styles from satchels and smaller cross-body style bags to backpacks and binders that also include straps. The pins don't all have to go into the inserts either.

Oftentimes, your favorite pins can go in the slots that are provided on the inside of the bag, and others that you want to display could go on the outside. This gives you room to be creative and showcase your pins, especially if you actively trade them.

Avoid Loss

In addition to safety, you can't deny that trading pins are tiny. Most of them will range between 1.5 and three inches. This can make them very easy to misplace. Having a designated place to store them will limit your chances of losing them.

They are only about 1.2 to two millimeters thick, making them easy to slip into the pin slots, and they still have plenty of room for more within only one bag. Whether you need a pin bag for aesthetic purposes or function, these bags give you the option of having both.

A History Lesson

Do you know how pin trading started? Keep in mind that there is a trading pin for everything from certain people and certain sports to Disney themes and Olympic Games.

Thinking About the Start of Disney

For Disney pins, they have been around about as long as their parks were; although, you did still need to be able to spot fake pins and keep yours from raising any red flags. Around 1999, if you didn't already know this, their unique and most sought-after trading pin was released as it accompanied the Millenium Celebration.

This pin was featured at the Walt Disney World Resort, and this followed the Odyssey of the Mind event, which sparked what would later be a popular activity for everyone, Disney Pin Trading.

What About the Start of Sports?

In terms of sports, pin trading goes as far back as 1896, when it first started in Athens at the first site for the Olympic Games. Let's appreciate how far pin trading has come to the point where we are now from how it began considering that in 1896, pins were usually made from cardboard material. The act of pin trading is like a sport all on its own.

This part of the game's done by the fans of competing teams, and it has become a staple of the Olympic Games. When pin trading first started, athletes used them to help identify who they were, what they competed in, and who they competed for. Fans do the same to show their support for their home country, their favorite athlete, the games in general, and what the game represents or what it means to them.

Material Makes a Difference

Today, pins have a metal base with an enamel top coat most of the time, although they're made from anything the manufacturer prefers to use. The two primary types offered today are offset printed pins and enamel pins.

Offset printed pins limit the distortion of imagery. This means that your design won't be altered, and different gradients get included to help with this.

Iron metal pins that have dye-struck material help to create enamel pins, and it's a great option to showcase great detail and features within the pin design. Compared to how pin trading started in terms of material, trading has become a bit more advanced.

The Advantages of a Trading Pin Bag

The list of advantages is long, and different features will appeal to different people. Overall, once you get a trading pin bag, there are a few key things you'll have to look forward to.

• Portability
• Designated storage
• Affordable storage
• Protection from damage
• Increased life span
• Less cleaning
• Unique and custom designs
• Multiple pages or pockets of space within one bag

When you think about it, there aren't too many disadvantages to having a pin bag, if you can think of any at all. If you want a simple solution to house and protect your pins from damage, a bag for them is the best option. If you are an avid trader and want to find something that caters more to aesthetics so that you have display options when you can trade with others, this is even more of a reason to use one.

Also, consider if you collect to sell. If you are a collector specializing in sourcing and restoring pins and you sell at markets, having something that can carry hundreds per bag will make your job that much easier.

The benefits, as we mentioned, can be tailored to the person and the reasons they need or want the bag. Not to mention, they also make the perfect gift for any Disney trading pin enthusiast or sports pin collector.

Your Trading Pin Collection Will Only Get Better

Trading pin bags have about three or six pages within them or even more, although this varies by the size and design of the bag. They are meant to provide proper lining, sealing, and storing of your pins, whether you are stationary or mobile. Your collection will only benefit from having its own space, as the dividers keep them from rubbing against each other.

This means that they're protected from the elements, from scratches that could be caused by outside sources, and from causing scratches to each other. With the protective cloth that act as the liners, your pins have cushioning, which keeps them from rattling against each other and provides a protective layer that supports them and holds them in place.

It's important to realize that while pin trading is fun, they are often collected and traded based solely on value and not only collection completion or additions. Some of the most valuable pins on the market are;

• 1927 press pin
• Lou Gehrig memorial pin
• 1912 press pin
• 1911 Philadelphia athletics press pin

While these are baseball trading pins, different types of pins can have significant value, whether in terms of monetary gain or sentimental value. Depending on their condition, release date, availability, and rareness, your pins could hold high value.

Adding to this, if you keep them in pristine condition, they could be worth even more!

If You Don't Have a Trading Pin Bag, what?

Quite a few things could go wrong if you are not storing your trading pins the right way.

Disney pins, for example, are often made from soft enamel. Although they have a metal base, it's not enough to protect them. The problem with this is that soft enamel isn't the most durable material.

Unlike hard enamel, this type is very prone to scratches. Therefore, while the design of them is beautiful and the texture's unmatched, they need to be stored properly to maintain their quality and aesthetic features.

Also, enamel can tarnish quickly as well. If you aren't keeping your pins in a room temperature area with no moisture, you might notice the deterioration in their features changing over time. It's suggested to always store in dry areas to avoid this, and using a pin bag is one of the most popular options.

Time to Get Your Own Pin Bag!

Having a bag for pin trading can make the difference between damaged pins and high-quality pins. So, to enhance the condition of your collection, consider using a trading pin bag, as you will get more out of your pins than you thought possible.

1911 Philadelphia Athletics Press Pin

The best baseball trading pins you can get your hands on are the 1911 Philadelphia Athletics press pins. These pins are extremely rare and valuable, and they are a must-have for any collector.

The pins were only produced for a short time, and they are extremely hard to find. They are a valuable piece of history, and they are a must-have for any baseball fan.

1912 Press Pin

1912 Press Pin is the best baseball trading pins you can get your hands on. It is a replica of the 1912 World Series press pin, and it is extremely rare. There were only 100 of these pins made, and they are highly sought after by collectors.

The 1912 Press Pin is made of brass, and it is enameled in red, white, and blue. It is a very beautiful pin, and it is very rare. If you are lucky enough to find one of these pins, it is sure to be a valuable addition to your collection.

Jackie Robinson Rookie Pin

In honor of the great Jackie Robinson, this Jackie Robinson Rookie Pin is a must-have for any baseball fan. It is one of the best baseball trading pins that you can get your hands on. It is a great addition to any collection.

In having such collections you need a trading pin bags to protect and store them. If you are looking for a great gift for a baseball fan, this Jackie Robinson Rookie Pin is a perfect choice.

1927 Press Pin

It is a highly sought-after pin among collectors and has a beautiful design. The 1927 Press Pin was made to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Boston Red Sox. The pin is made of gold-plated metal and has a red enamel finish.

The front of the pin features a raised Boston Red Sox logo. The back of the pin is engraved with the date "1927" and "100th Anniversary." The 1927 Press Pin is a must-have for any Boston Red Sox fan or collector.

1956 Topps Pins

When it comes to baseball trading pins, the best ones you can get your hands on are from Topps. Topps has been making pins since 1956 and their pins are some of the most sought-after by collectors.

Topps pins are known for their quality and attention to detail, and their pins from the 1950s are especially valuable. If you're looking for a baseball trading pin that's both valuable and well-made, Topps is the way to go.

1933 Cracker Jack Prize of Lou Gehrig

The Cracker Jack Prize of Lou Gehrig  is one of the best baseball trading pins you can get your hands on. It was first distributed in 1933 and was highly sought after by collectors.

The pin features a portrait of Lou Gehrig, one of the greatest baseball players of all time. The Cracker Jack Prize of Lou Gehrig is a must-have for any baseball fan or collector.

Lou Gehrig Memorial Pin

There are a lot of different baseball trading pins out there, but the Lou Gehrig Memorial Pin is definitely one of the best. This pin commemorates the great Lou Gehrig, who was a first baseman for the New York Yankees. He was diagnosed with ALS in 1939 and died two years later.

This pin is a great way to remember him and his legacy. It features a beautiful image of Gehrig and is often traded for high-value pins. This is a must-have for any baseball fan and is sure to add value to your collection.

Keep the Dodgers in Brooklyn

Some of the best baseball trading pins around are those that keep the Dodgers in Brooklyn. These pins are highly sought after by collectors and fans alike. They feature the iconic Dodgers logo and are a great way to show your support for the team.

Whether you're looking for a gift for a diehard fan or a unique item for your own collection, these pins are a great option. And with a collar lapel jacket sleeves to add it, this makes it a perfect gift.

1947 All Star Baseball Game at Wrigley Field, Chicago Cubs Press Pin

The 1947 All Star Baseball Game at Wrigley Field Chicago Cubs Press Pin is one of the best baseball trading pins you can get your hands on. It is a beautiful pin that is very well made and it is a great addition to any collection.

The pin is in excellent condition and it would be a great gift for any baseball fan. You will also need a trading bag to keep it in mint condition.

Cooperstown Trading Pins

There's no doubt that the best baseball trading pins come from Cooperstown Trading Pins. They have a huge selection of pins to choose from, and they're always adding new designs. Whether you're looking for a souvenir pin for your collection or you're looking to trade with other collectors, Cooperstown Trading Pins has the perfect pin for you.

Understanding the Value of Baseball Trading Pins

If you're looking to get head-on baseball trading pins, you need to be aware of what are the most valuable to trade. In this article, we have compiled the most valuable baseball pins you need to get a fair trade. Most of these trading pins are dated way back in baseball history which adds to their price.

When it comes to baseball trading pins, quality and history have the most value. If you have more questions about trading baseball pins, it is best to consult an expert.

Looking for more interesting articles? Follow our blog post for more interesting topics.

Pin Bag

If you are a pin trader or collector the most obvious way to display your collection is in a trading pin bag. Trading is not a stationary sport, it requires mobility, flexibility, security, protection, and capacity. A trading pin bag addresses all of these requirements very nicely.

While pin bags may not seem like a traditional display, they actually are the very best choice for mobile display of your pin collection. Pin bags allow you to organize your pins by type or event or some other categorization. They make it easy to find pins by simply flipping the page. They are a great option.

Pin bags come in various shapes and sizes, but premium pin bags will have many of these features:

• 9 x 13 inches
• 5-6 pages, with 300+ pin capacity
• divider liners to protect the face
• individual zippered pages with an outer zipper to enclose and protect
• a handle and shoulder strap for flexibility of movement
• durable outer shell with good stitching

You can order our premium trading pin bag here.

Cork Board

A cork board is probably the easiest, least expensive and most flexible option. Cork is easy to shop for can be purchased from Amazon in almost any shape and size. Cork can be framed or for a less expensive option just the use the cork itself. Just make sure you get one that is thick enough so the nails don't poke all the way through. A standard nail is 8mm long.

The other advantages of cork is they can be hung on a wall, stand on a desk and lean against the wall, or be placed on an easel. They also allow great flexibility and ease of pulling them on and off or rearranging them on the board.

Shadow Box

If you're looking for a classy, distinct and exclusive display for your pins choose a shadow box. These are typically wood framed cases with a clear glass front. These make great displays for your office, den or a family living room. Shadow boxes are a high end option and a great gift idea for that collector who has rare and exclusive pins to protect and store.

Lanyard

A lanyard may not be top of mind as a permanent display to put pins on but if your collection is small and you lack wall space a lanyard may be the perfect solution. The lanyard idea offers a place to hold all the pins and hangs nicely from a simple hook. The portability it offers is a plus.

Embroidery Hoop

If your the quilter type, consider an embroidery hoop frame. The ideas are endless with this method. You can use different fabric background that matches the theme of your collection. You can buy new stuff or just search your sewing closet and use a hoop you already have. Its a great pin display option enclosed in a simple changeable frame

Pin Banners

A pin banner is a unique idea to show off your collection. It gives you space to fill, its hangable, it might fit the style of decor in your room, and its movable. Its really is one simple idea to attach pins and display your unique pin collection.

Pillows

The beauty of a collectible pin is attaching it to anything, even a pillow. Now I wouldn't want to lay my head on it, but for display purposes its perfect. Maybe it's a small decorative pillow that just sits on shelf or maybe you are know as the avid pin collector and it is the final decorative pill that is the center point of your bed. Either way, you don't want to overlook any option.

Hinged Display Box

A hinged display box is great, you don't have to hang it, rather it can sit on a desk or shelf. If you want to store it just close the lid and the pins are protected. It makes for a nice gift presentation.

Backpack

A backpack is an alternative to a trading pin bag, it allows you to show off your pins as you walk the halls of school or stroll on campus. People will stare at the pins and try to figure out your passions just by seeing the pin display

Jean Jacket

For the fashionista's a jean jacket is definitely the trendy choice for a pin display. You can take your denim fabric and have fun. Swap out pins each day depending on your mood.

Get Creative

Get creative, a pin display is your creative outlet. Don't be afraid to let your personality shine through. Come up with your own idea on how to display your enamel pins - I give you permission.

4 Suggestions on How to Get Affordable Trading Pins

Check with your League or Organization

Many youth sports leagues and organizations have relationships with companies that sell trading pins at a discount. So, before you search online, check with the league or organization for any possible discounts.

Trading pin companies love to strike a deal with large organizations because they know they will send them more business.  Leverage this relationship for your benefit. 

Shop Around

If you are the team mom or coach designated to buy your teams baseball trading pins, don't just buy from the first pin company you find online. Shop around and compare prices from different vendors. You may be surprised at how much prices can vary.

The truth is, most of the online pin companies produce the same quality of pin, the difference comes down to service and price.  So search around and request several bids to get trading pins for less. A little known tip in regards to pricing is if a pin company doesn’t list their price on the website, their pricing is likely higher than those that do list prices. 

Buy in Bulk

Buying in bulk is always cheaper.  The more you buy, the lower the price. Pin companies are used to quoting volume discounts of 100, 200 and 500 quantities. So, if they don’t list their price breaks on their website just ask.

When ordering for a team, encourage everyone on the team to participate so the quantities goes higher and the price goes lower.

Know the Product

This might seem a little out in left field for a parent who was assigned to buy the pins but has no idea what a trading pin is.  We can teach you in a couple of sentences all you need to know.

Ask for soft enamel pins  

This is standard and least expensive option for trading pins

Ask for 1.5 to 2 inch size pins

Trading pin rarely go below 1.5 inch so at minimum stick to this size, but if you have a little more money, a 2 inch pin can improve the trading experience.

Ask for a free artwork

The majority of trading pin companies offer free artwork.  You are not putting them out by asking for artwork.  They know showing artwork is the only way you will buy, they just hope you buy from them, but either way it is still free.

Ask for free shipping

Again, free shipping is expected and really helps get trading pins for less.  The less extras you have to pay for the more affordable the pin.

You don’t have to break the bank to enjoy the pin trading experience, these few simple suggestions will likely save you $$ in your quest.

How Much are Trading Pins?

As mentioned above pricing will vary between pin companies and depending on the design and size of the trading pin.  On average you can expect to pay about $3.25 to $3.75 or less for 100 - 1.5 inch soft enamel pins.  But if you buy 500 the price would drop to $1.60 to $1.85 per pin for a 1.5 inch soft enamel pin.  You can see the value of volume in that pricing above.  While there are many vendors to choose from we are partial to CustomPinsNow or PinProsPlus.  Both these companies are well established and have great service and reasonable pricing.  All you need to do is click the links, submit a quote request and they will respond in a matter of minutes.

How do you make a trading pin?

Making custom trading pins is easy, unless you are a DYI sort of person you rely on the experts.  The process is simple.  Contact the pin company you found online.  Give them the details of what you want the design to be.  For a little league baseball  team you would provide the following details to create a baseball trading pin:

• Team Name
• Team Colors
• Team Logo / Mascot
• Team State
• Player numbers and names
• Tournament name

Based on this information the pin company will create a unique design just for your team.  Once you approve the artwork you will provide order information like shipping address and credit card information.  The order is then processed at the factory and in 2-3 weeks the pins will ship and show up at your door. Most pin companies guarantee their work and take a complex process and make it simple.

The biggest hurdle in making baseball trading pins is the timing.  Most regional tournaments have pin trading as part of their activities, then if you win you advance to state and national tournaments like Cooperstown.  The critical part is the turnaround time from winning a regional tournament to going to the national tournament.  If you anticipate you will advance - have your pin design ready to go so you can start the process immediately.

Do Softball Players Still Trade Pins?

Yes, softball players still trade pins and the process is the exact same as the baseball teams.  Just remember for softball you want a yellow ball rather than a white ball.  Make sure to check that on the pin design - some artists forget.

What are Trading Pins Used For?

There are many categories for trading pins.  Baseball trading pins and softball trading pins is a big category.  Regardless of the sport or event trading pins are used for the same purpose.  

Meet new people

Trading pins allow youth to get out of their comfort zone and meet new people.  They are the icebreakers.  Imagine a little league baseball tournament, before the game the players gather and swap pins and tell stories about their team.

Promote unity

Trading pins promote team unity as players often share in the process of creating their trading pin.  The pin is the common piece of memorabilia that reminds the player of the experiences and friends they played with.

Chance to win

Trading pins offer a chance to win regardless if they win or lose the game that is eventually played.  Meeting other teams and trading pins engages them in learning and growing.  We like to say trade big, win big.

Pin Collection

Trading pins accumulate and turn into a pin collection.  Sports isn’t a one year thing.  Most kids will play multiple years and go to multiple tournaments and collect multiple pins.  When  you reach 5 pins you start to wonder what do I do with these pins?  That leads you to a trading pin bag and your trading and collecting becomes a thing.

7 Things to Remember When Creating Custom Trading Pins

Pin Design

The pin design is the most important element in creating a desirable and tradable pin.  Don’t worry if you don’t have experience in design, most custom pin companies have full time artists on staff that are expert pin designers and know what works.  You can certainly provide your ideas and then they will take it to the next level.

Pin Type

Soft enamel is the standard when it comes to trading pins.  Soft enamel is the most economical when it comes to quality and price.  Rarely will you see hard enamel used for trading pins unless you are a Disney trader and then hard enamel is the standard. But for sports, schools, teams, clubs stick with soft enamel.

Pin Size

When it comes to trading pins, bigger is better.  Size does matter as that is what attracts other traders.  A 3 inch pin will trade much better than a 1.5 inch sized pin.  The standard range is 1.5 to 3 inches in size with 1.75 and 2 inch being the most common.  If money is an issue 1.5 inch is a respectable sized trading pin.

Pin Extras

When you think about trading, it’s the uniqueness of a pin that attracts attention and defines value.  A unique pin might land you 2 pins in exchange for the 1 unique pin.

Pin extras would be things like moving parts, blinkie lights or glitter enamel.  These extras make a pin more interesting and more of a novelty.  Think about a baseball pin with a sliding ball, or a spinning or dangling glove.  While these extras cost a little more, they really help your pin stand out from the crowd.

Pin Sets

A pin set is exactly what it sounds like, multiple pins that go together.  They could fit together like a puzzle to make one big pin.  Or they could each stand alone with common subject matter like 4 different minion characters.  Pin sets can be traded one pin at a time or as an entire set.  When trying to be unique, a pin set goes a long way.

Pin Backs

There are 2 standard types of clutches:  rubber clutch or butterfly clutch.  The clutch doesn’t really matter in terms of value or uniqueness, but my experience says the rubber clutch is used more commonly for trading pins.

Pin Order

If you know you have a pin trading event - don’t wait to order.  So many teams delay the ordering process and miss out on getting pins in time to trade.  Custom trading pins take an average of 3 weeks from order to delivery.  But if you can allow 4 weeks that is even better and builds in a little cushion for delays.  

‍While we don’t make trading pins we always recommend CustomPinsNow.  They make some of the best trading pins at fair and reasonable prices.

What is Pin Trading?

Pin trading is a big deal, and first time traders often underestimate its importance.

Destination Imagination is an international school competition where teams from all over the world come together in teams of 4 or 5 kids to compete in solving problems. 

One might think the competition is the most important part.  Think again.  Pin trading has been incorporated into these competitions as a way for kids to engage with other kids and to help create social experiences.  Each team creates their own unique and custom designed pins to trade with other teams.  The pin trading experience has become bigger than the competition itself.  

Now Imagine showing up without any trading pins for your team.  Or showing up with a simple small or boring pin.  You can imagine how this might just dampen a kids experience.  In some cases it has devastated a team

Pin trading is an experience, it is an event, it creates connections, it stimulates competition, it is very social and engaging and often is a featured activity in a much larger event.

Most people think of Disney Trading pins or Olympic Trading pins, but pin trading happens at so many different events it is hard to list them all.  I know of a man that has collected over 120,000 pins over 20-30 years of attending baseball tournaments and participating in the pin trading.  His experience started as a father taking his son to little league tournaments.  Here is a short list.

Baseball tournaments
Hockey tournaments
Ice Skating competitions
Clubs events
Corporate events
Resident Housing conferences
Olympics
Disney
Lions Club
Robotics competitions.

Pin trading turns into collections.  Most people choose to focus on a particular theme or genre, or simply collect whatever strikes their fancy. So in short, pin trading is the satisfaction of acquiring new pins by trading but also the social enjoyment of meeting and trading with other like-minded individuals.

Do Custom Trading Pins Have Value

Yes custom trading pins have value but not necessarily in the monetary way you might think.  Consider this.

Monetary Value

Yes, A pin collection could have monetary value but that will depend completely on what the subject matter of your pin collection is.  Rare Disney pin collections will have value.  Rare Olympic pin collections will have value.  ‍

The bigger the population of people collecting certain pins creates demand for such pins and thus increases value. The fewer pins that exist in a popular category creates demand for such pins and thus increases value. The older a pin likely increases value.‍

Conversation Starter

Custom trading pins are a great conversation starter. A collection displayed in your house or a pin worn on your jacket or backpack might start a deep dive conversation into what you are passionate about.  Pins get people excited because they are more than the pin itself, they are stories waiting to be told.

Great Hobby

Trading pin collections are a great hobby.  I allows you to travel around, meet new people, and learn interesting things.  It keeps you engaged with life.

The Hunt

Custom pin trading creates challenges as you look for those rare, unique and different pins that complement or complete your collections.  The hunt can be more fun than the actual finding.  

Perfect Gift Choice

Custom trading pins can be a great gift for a fellow fan. If you know someone who collects pins, gift giving becomes rather easy.

Some Tips for Trading Pin Collectors

As a trader, it is important to be aware of the different types of pins that are out there. Here are some tips to help you trade efficiently:

Find Out the Value

Different pins have different values for collectors. Limited edition or retired pins are typically worth more than pins that are currently in production.

Do Your Research

Familiarize yourself with the different types of pins and their values before trading. This way, you can be sure to get the best deal possible.

Pin Condition

Pay attention to the condition of the pins you are trading. Pins that are in Mint condition will be worth more than those that are damaged or have been used.

Respect Other Collectors

Be respectful when trading with other collectors. This is a hobby that should be enjoyable for everyone involved. Follow the Golden Rule and treat others as you would like to be treated.

Negotiate Reasonably

Be reasonable when negotiating trades. Keep in mind that both parties should feel like they got a fair deal. Don't try to take advantage of another collector.

Have a Pin Bag

Any avid pin trader knows having a pin bag for your pin collection is a must to ensure ability to protect, store, and transport your pin collection to trading events.  Check out our extra large trading pin bag if you are in need of one or two or even three.  And happy trading.  

Trading Pin Bags

A trading pin bag is a small, soft-sided bag that is used to store and protect collectible pins. These bags typically have a zipper closure and are made from a variety of materials, including nylon, canvas, and velvet. Trading pin bags first became popular in the early 2000s as a way to safely transport pins to and from conventions and trading events.

Today, these bags are still used for this purpose, but they have also become a must-have fashion accessory for many pin collectors. In addition to being stylish, trading pin bags are also a great way to organize and display your pins.

What Makes a Trading Pin Bag Good

There are a few factors to consider when choosing the right trading pin bag. The type of bag, the size of the bag, and the number of pins you want to trade.

Bag Type

The type of bag is important because you want to make sure the bag is big enough, durable enough, and provides the best protection.

Bag Size

The size of the bag is also important. For an avid collector you likely want a bag that will hold 300-500 pins.  The quantity a pin bag will hold is totally dependent on the size of the pins being stored.  The premium pin bags often are distinguishable because they have this 300-500 quantity capacity.  Don’t underestimate the capacity as you can run out of space very quickly.

Number of Pins

I’m not going to lie, collecting pins is addictive, the more you get the more you want.  You will find ways to get them whether it is traveling to Disneyland or buying pins when you visit national parks.  Collectible pins are everywhere once you start looking for them.

When you first start out, your collection may be small but over time it will grow.  You may start out getting a few pins from a little league baseball tournament or a school event like Destination Imagination or a robotics competition. So don’t underestimate the size of bag you may need as the number of pins will grow and grow.

Materials

Trading pin bags are made from a variety of materials, including velvet, nylon, and canvas. Many may be a combination of materials.  Nylon is the most common for the outer shell, velvet and foam are the most common for the interior pages.  The most important thing to consider is whether the bag is constructed for durability.  Stitching, fabric, all matter in selecting a good bag.  

Here is a little insight on the 3 materials mentioned.

Velvet

A type of fabric that has a very short, dense pile. It is usually made from silk or synthetic fiber. Velvet can be tricky to work with because it can easily be damaged by heat, water, or abrasion.

It is best to use a backing fabric when working with velvet to prevent it from slipping or shifting. They are usually made from velvet or a similar fabric to help keep the pins from being scratched or damaged.

Nylon

A strong, durable synthetic polymer that was first developed in the 1930s. It's now widely used in all sorts of applications, from clothing and upholstery to rope and automotive parts. Trading pin bags are a great way to protect and store your pins, and they're usually made from nylon for their strength and durability.  Nylon also offers some water protection.

Canvas

A sturdy, heavy-duty cotton fabric is used for making sails, tents, marquees, backpacks, and other items for which strong fabric is required.  Canvas would be more of a trendy or aesthetic material used for trading pin bags and likely are more unique and stylish and likely cost much more.

The Price

The price of a trading pin bag varies depending on the size and style of the bag.  Trading pin bags range from $15 to over $100, but the most common bags will be $30 to $50 dollars.  When it comes to pricing the biggest differentiator is size and number of pin pages included.  So if you see a $15 bag, it likely has 2-3 pages.  If you see a $40 bag, it likely has 5-6 pages.  It all boils down to personal choice and your budget.

9 Benefits of Trading Pin Bags

There are many benefits to trading pin bags, with the most obvious being that it can help you get more pins!

Storage

Keeps your pins together in one place.  Storing is important.

Protection

Prevents scratches, tarnishing, and damage

Organization

Allows for grouping and organizing pins into like kinds

Security

Ensures your pins are safe from loss or theft

Portability

Allows you to take your pins anywhere

Collectibility

Makes you look like a pin trader and collection.

Ease of Trading

Pins are displayed perfectly for trading with others

Convenience

You can grab and go, attach and remove, its just easy

Display

Pins are arranged to show off, and find a specific pin

Where Can I Buy a Trading Pin Bag?

The good news is it is easy to find trading pin bags to buy. You can buy one here on this website from TradingPinBag.com. They even offer bulk pricing the more you buy. You can also purchase them on Amazon.