How to Display Collectible Pins on a Bag or Lanyard

By Ultra PRO International - THE Standard in Safe Storage | Published: 2026-10-24

Category: Tips & Care

Learn practical steps to attach and display your collectible pins on bags, lanyards, or hats without damaging them or your gear. Includes tips for officially licensed D&D and MTG pins.

Quick answer

To display collectible pins without damage, use locking pin backs on a sturdy fabric area, space pins to avoid scratching, and check the backing regularly for tightness.

Why locking pin backs matter

Standard butterfly clutches can loosen over time, especially on bags or lanyards that move during wear. Locking pin backs—rubber or metal with a screw mechanism—provide a more secure hold. They reduce the chance of losing a pin and prevent the sharp post from scratching the fabric or the pin's enamel surface.

Where to place pins for best visibility

The front flap of a backpack, the strap of a crossbody bag, or the front of a lanyard are prime spots. Avoid placing pins on curved seams or thin straps where the fabric can't support the pin's weight. On hats, the center front or the side panels work well, but avoid the brim edge where the pin may catch on door frames.

How to attach and display pins safely

Choose the right spot: Select a flat, sturdy fabric area on your bag or lanyard. Avoid thin straps, zippers, or seams that can distort the pin or cause the post to poke through. A common mistake is attaching a pin to a curved or weak seam—it can bend the pin post or tear the fabric.
Insert the pin post: Push the pin post straight through the fabric from the front to the back. If the fabric is thick (like denim), use a dull awl or the pin itself to gently widen the hole first. Do not force the pin through multiple layers at once—this can snap the post or damage the enamel.
Secure with a locking back: Place a locking pin back (rubber or screw type) onto the post and tighten until snug. Rubber backs grip well; screw backs offer the most security for heavy or valuable pins. Check the tightness after a day of wear—vibration can loosen screw backs slightly. Re-tighten as needed.
Space pins to prevent scratching: Leave at least half an inch between pins so their edges don't rub together. On lanyards, stagger pins rather than stacking them directly on top of each other. Touching pins can scratch enamel or chip painted details over time. Use pin display boards or felt strips between pins if you have a dense collection.
Inspect and rotate regularly: Every few weeks, remove each pin, check the post and backing for wear, and wipe the pin with a soft cloth. Rotate which pins you display to reduce UV exposure on any single piece. Leaving a pin in direct sunlight for months can fade the enamel. Rotating keeps your collection looking fresh.

Pin display product info

Dungeons & Dragons Master Pin 002: Officially licensed Dungeons & Dragons pin, part of the Master Pin series (002), wearable on bags, hats, or jackets. This pin is designed for display, so using a secure backing protects both the collectible and the item you attach it to.
Dungeons & Dragons Master Pin 002