Crafting with Coins and Pins: Creative DIY Projects

Crafting with Coins and Pins: Creative DIY Projects

Using coins and pins in arts and crafts

The world of DIY and arts and crafts is a boundless playground for self-expression, often finding its most charming character in the repurposing of everyday objects. Among these, coins and pins stand out as remarkably versatile and evocative materials. Coins, with their intricate engravings, varied metallic finishes, and embedded history, offer a tangible connection to different eras and cultures. Pins, encompassing enamel pins, lapel pins, and even decorative brooches, serve as miniature canvases for art, statements of identity, and collections of personal milestones. The act of transforming these items—whether a vintage Hong Kong fifty-cent piece or a limited-edition enamel pin from a local artist—into new artistic creations is not just a craft; it's a narrative process. It blends nostalgia with innovation, allowing crafters to weave personal and collective histories into wearable art, home décor, and unique gifts. This exploration into crafting with coins and pins opens a door to projects that are as meaningful as they are beautiful, encouraging makers to look at the contents of their pockets or pin collections not as mundane objects, but as reservoirs of creative potential.

Exploring the creative possibilities of these materials

The creative possibilities inherent in coins and pins are as diverse as the materials themselves. Coins can be drilled, soldered, polished, patinated, or embedded. They can be used as-is to showcase their original design or altered to create entirely new imagery. Their weight and metallic sheen add a substantial, quality feel to any project. Pins, on the other hand, introduce color, texture, and immediate graphic impact. They are designed to be attached and displayed, making them perfect for modular and ever-evolving projects. The synergy between these two is particularly fascinating. The permanence and weight of a coin can be beautifully contrasted with the playful, removable nature of a pin. Furthermore, the realm of pins and coins often intersects with related collectibles like pins and keychains and pins and patches, allowing for mixed-media creations that tell richer stories. A denim jacket might feature a patch representing a favorite band, surrounded by enamel pins from concerts, and accented with a coin pendant from the city where the show took place. This layered approach to crafting enables a deeply personal and multidimensional form of artistic expression, where every element carries its own significance.

Coin jewelry (pendants, earrings, rings)

Transforming coins into jewelry is one of the most popular and rewarding ways to engage with this craft. The process turns currency into personal adornment, often carrying amuletic or sentimental value. For pendants, coins can be simply drilled at the top to accommodate a jump ring or bail. More advanced techniques involve bezel-setting the coin in sterling silver or gold, creating a professional-looking piece that protects the coin's edges. Ancient or foreign coins, like old British Hong Kong coins (minted prior to 1997), are particularly sought after for their historical allure. Earrings offer another fantastic avenue. Lightweight coins or small denominations can be made into studs or dangles. A popular technique is to create "coin stack" earrings, where multiple small coins are soldered together vertically. Rings present a more challenging but impressive project. This typically requires a ring blank and a strong adhesive like epoxy resin for a glue-on method, or for a permanent fixture, soldering a coin to a ring shank. The key is selecting coins that are the right size and thickness for comfortable wear. The result is a conversation-starting piece of jewelry that carries a piece of history or personal memory on your person.

Coin mosaics and collages

Coin mosaics and collages allow crafters to work on a larger scale, creating stunning wall art, tabletops, or decorative objects. This art form utilizes the varied colors of coins—the copper of pennies, the silver of nickels and dimes, and the golden hue of certain foreign coins—to create images, patterns, or textured fields. The process begins with a design sketch on a sturdy substrate like wood or MDF. Coins are then attached using a strong, clear-drying adhesive like a construction-grade silicone or epoxy. A mosaic can be purely abstract, focusing on the shimmering gradient created by different metals, or it can depict a detailed image, such as a dragon (a common motif on Hong Kong coins) or a skyline. Collages might mix coins with other flat items like stamps, postcards, or even pins and patches for a more eclectic look. According to a 2023 survey by the Hong Kong Arts Centre, up to 15% of local mixed-media artists have incorporated obsolete or foreign coins into their work, citing themes of economic transition and cultural identity. The final piece is often sealed with a clear resin pour, which not only protects the coins from tarnish but also creates a smooth, unified surface that enhances the mosaic effect.

Coin-covered furniture and décor

For a truly bold statement, covering furniture or decorative objects in coins creates a dazzling, opulent effect. This project is labor-intensive but yields breathtaking results. Common items include coffee tables, mirror frames, vases, or even entire bar tops. The technique involves meticulously gluing coins, often by their edges, to cover the surface completely. A mix of coins from around the world adds visual interest through different sizes, shapes, and colors. Some crafters arrange them in precise patterns (like fish scales or concentric circles), while others opt for a more organic, densely packed look. It's crucial to use a substrate that can bear the significant weight of the coins and to apply a thick, durable clear epoxy resin topcoat. This resin fills the gaps between coins, creating a solid, level, and waterproof surface that is easy to clean. Such a piece becomes a functional work of art, reflecting light and inviting closer inspection. The concept ties back to the broader theme of pins and coins as materials of value and decoration, here scaled up to transform an everyday piece of furniture into a museum-worthy conversation piece.

Pin-covered jackets and bags

Pin-covered jackets and bags represent a dynamic and personal form of wearable art. This practice, deeply rooted in punk and DIY subcultures, has evolved into a mainstream fashion statement. It allows individuals to curate a mobile display of their interests, affiliations, and memories. The process is simple yet endlessly customizable. A denim or canvas jacket, a backpack, or a tote bag serves as the foundation. Enamel pins, lapel pins, and even small pins and keychains (by removing the keyring) are then strategically pinned onto the fabric. The artistry lies in the composition—balancing colors, sizes, and themes. Some prefer a densely packed "battle jacket" look, often associated with music genres like metal, where every pin tells a story of a band or concert. Others opt for a more minimalist, curated cluster. To secure pins permanently and prevent loss, many crafters use locking pin backs or a drop of strong glue on the pin's post. This project is inherently fluid; pins can be rearranged, added, or removed as one's collection or tastes evolve, making the garment a living portfolio of personal history.

Pin banners and wall displays

When not adorning clothing, pins deserve a dedicated space for display. Creating pin banners or wall displays is an excellent way to organize and showcase a collection as interior décor. A simple and effective method is to stretch a piece of felt, corkboard, or heavyweight canvas over a wooden frame. This provides a soft, penetrable surface for pinning. For a more rustic look, a strip of leather or burlap can be hung from dowels. The pins can be arranged thematically—for example, all travel-related pins, floral designs, or pins from a specific artist. Another popular trend is the "pin flag," where collectors arrange their pins on a national or novelty flag background. For a mixed-media approach, incorporate pins and patches onto the same banner, sewing on the patches and pinning the pins around them. This creates depth and texture. Such displays protect delicate fabrics from pin damage and turn a collection into a dynamic piece of wall art that can be easily updated. It celebrates the pin not just as an accessory, but as a collectible art form in its own right.

Pin embellishments for clothing and accessories

Beyond covering entire surfaces, pins can be used as strategic embellishments to refresh and personalize existing clothing and accessories. A single, statement pin can elevate a plain blazer lapel, hat, or scarf. Pins can also be used to solve practical style problems: a shawl or cardigan can be secured elegantly with a beautiful brooch pin. On accessories, a cluster of small pins can transform a simple handbag or a pair of canvas shoes. The key is to consider scale and placement. A large, intricate pin works best as a focal point on a solid-color item, while several small, related pins can create a charming border or accent. For permanent attachment, especially on items that will be washed or handled frequently, it is advisable to sew the pin in place through its existing holes or to use fabric glue designed for embellishments. This technique of using pins and coins (as coin pins exist too) for embellishment allows for endless customization of one's wardrobe without the need for advanced sewing skills, making high-fashion personalization accessible to all.

Shadow boxes featuring coins and pins

Shadow boxes are the perfect medium for creating curated, three-dimensional displays that tell a specific story by combining coins and pins. A shadow box is a deep frame with a glass front, allowing for the arrangement of objects within. To create a narrative piece, one might start with a background—a map, a vintage postcard, or a piece of textured fabric. Then, coins and pins are arranged to complement the theme. For instance, a travel memory shadow box could feature coins from countries visited, paired with enamel pins of landmarks from those places, all set against a map section. Military or family history themes might combine challenge coins with corresponding insignia pins. The objects can be attached using pin backs (for pins), adhesive, or small mounting posts. The layered depth of a shadow box allows for foreground and background elements, creating a miniature diorama. This project beautifully encapsulates the mixed-media potential of pins and coins, preserving memories and collections in a visually striking, dust-protected format that is worthy of wall space in any home.

Altered art projects using coins and pins

Altered art is the practice of transforming existing, often mundane, objects into works of art by adding, removing, or embellishing. Coins and pins are ideal elements for this transformative process. An old book can be hollowed out to create a secret niche, with coins and pins glued to the interior to form a cryptic collage. A vintage wooden box can have its lid encrusted with coins and its interior lined with felt, holding a special collection of pins. Even smaller items like magnifying glasses, compasses, or frames can be "upcycled" with these materials. The philosophy is to see the base object not for what it is, but for what it could become. Coins add a sense of age, value, and texture, while pins inject color and specific imagery. Combining them with other elements like watch parts, stamps, or dried flowers creates a richly detailed Steampunk or Victorian-inspired aesthetic. This form of crafting encourages a resourceful and imaginative mindset, where every thrift store find is a potential canvas for integrating pins and keychains, coins, and other ephemera into a unique artistic statement.

Mixed media jewelry and accessories

The fusion of coins and pins reaches its zenith in mixed-media jewelry and accessories. Here, the boundaries are limitless. A pendant might feature a soldered coin as the base, with a tiny enamel pin soldered or glued on top as a focal point. Earrings could combine a small coin charm with a miniature dangle made from a pin's element. For a more avant-garde look, pins can be deconstructed, and their enamel faces used as inlays in resin jewelry alongside embedded coins. Beyond jewelry, consider accessories like bookmarks, keychains, or hair clips. A keychain can be a direct blend of pins and keychains by attaching a favorite enamel pin to a keyring via a sturdy connector, or by embedding a coin in a resin key fob adorned with pin fragments. The process often involves skills from multiple disciplines: basic metalworking for coins, an understanding of adhesives, and an eye for color and composition. The result is a one-of-a-kind accessory that carries the weight and history of coins with the colorful personality of pins, truly embodying the spirit of personalized craft.

Choosing the right adhesives and materials

The longevity and safety of your projects depend heavily on selecting the correct adhesives and ancillary materials. For coin-based projects, especially those involving jewelry or heavy décor, a two-part epoxy resin is often the gold standard for its incredible strength and clear finish. For lighter applications or porous surfaces, a strong craft glue like E6000 is versatile and durable. When attaching pins permanently to fabric for projects like banners or secured jacket designs, hot glue or specialized fabric glue can be used on the pin's post, but for the most secure hold, sewing through the pin's existing holes is recommended. For mixed-media projects involving both pins and patches, you'll need both adhesive (for patches without iron-on backing) and a sewing kit. Other essential materials include:

• Substrates: Wood, MDF, canvas, high-density foam for shadow boxes.
• Protective Coatings: Clear spray sealant (matte or gloss) for metal, decoupage glue for paper layers, and pouring epoxy for tabletops.
• Findings: Jump rings, bails, earring posts, pin backs (both rubber and locking metal varieties).
• Tools: Needle-nose pliers, wire cutters, a fine drill bit for coins, a strong needle for sewing through tough fabrics.

Safety precautions for working with coins and pins

While crafting is enjoyable, safety must be a priority. Working with coins and pins presents specific hazards. Firstly, older coins may be made from metals that can cause allergic reactions or contain traces of lead or nickel. Wearing gloves when handling large quantities of unknown coins is prudent, and always wash hands thoroughly after working. When drilling or altering coins, always secure the coin in a vise or with pliers (protected by cloth to avoid scratching) and wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from metal shards. Use a mask if filing or sanding to avoid inhaling fine metallic dust. For pins, the sharp points are an obvious risk. Use a thimble or a specialized pin-pushing tool when attaching them to thick fabrics. Be mindful of small parts, especially if children or pets are present, as pins and detached pin backs are choking hazards. When using strong adhesives or resin, work in a well-ventilated area, wear a respirator mask rated for organic vapors, and follow the manufacturer's instructions meticulously. Proper safety practices ensure your creative journey with pins and coins is both enjoyable and risk-free.

Finding inspiration and tutorials online

The digital age has been a boon for crafters, providing endless inspiration and detailed guidance. Platforms like Pinterest, Instagram, and YouTube are treasure troves for ideas involving pins and coins, pins and keychains, and pins and patches. On YouTube, search for terms like "coin jewelry tutorial," "DIY pin display," or "mixed media shadow box" to find step-by-step video guides. Instagram hashtags such as #EnamelPinDIY, #CoinCraft, and #BattleJacket showcase stunning finished projects from a global community. For more structured learning, websites like Skillshare and Domestika offer in-depth courses taught by professional artists and crafters. Online marketplaces like Etsy are also excellent for sourcing materials—search for "lot of foreign coins," "enamel pin blanks," or "vintage patches." Furthermore, engaging with online forums (like Reddit's r/DIY or r/EnamelPins) allows you to ask specific questions, get feedback on your projects, and connect with fellow enthusiasts. Remember, while tutorials are invaluable guides, don't be afraid to adapt techniques and combine ideas to forge your own unique creative path.

Recap of the creative potential of coins and pins

From the delicate artistry of a coin pendant to the bold statement of a pin-covered jacket, the journey through crafting with coins and pins reveals a landscape rich with creative potential. These materials bridge the gap between the functional and the artistic, the historical and the contemporary, the mass-produced and the deeply personal. Coins offer weight, history, and a metallic palette, while pins provide color, immediate graphic appeal, and a modern collectible culture. Together, they can be used to create everything from intimate jewelry to large-scale décor, from organized displays to chaotic, story-filled collages. The processes involved—adhering, soldering, sewing, arranging—are accessible to beginners yet offer deep complexity for advanced makers. Each project becomes more than the sum of its parts; it becomes a testament to the maker's vision, patience, and personal narrative.

Encouragement to experiment and create unique projects

The most important tool in your crafting arsenal is not a specific glue or drill bit, but your own willingness to experiment. Start with a small, manageable project—perhaps turning a single coin into a keychain or arranging a few pins on a hat. Don't fear "mistakes"; in mixed-media art, unexpected outcomes often lead to the most original designs. Combine the techniques discussed: maybe create a pin banner with a border of embedded coins, or a piece of jewelry that incorporates elements from all three realms of pins and coins, pins and keychains, and pins and patches. Use materials that have personal meaning to you, whether it's coins from a memorable trip or pins representing your favorite hobbies. Your unique perspective is what will make your creations truly special. So, gather your materials, embrace the learning process, and begin crafting. The world of coins and pins awaits your imagination, ready to be transformed into something uniquely and wonderfully yours.