Design: Use the state's outline, a local landmark, monument, cultural event or other distinguishing feature when appropriate. ("Plain" state outlines are not recommended.) Keep it simple--if it gets too complicated, people will not be able to see what it is. this includes both design and number of colors used. Some units have contests to design their pin. If you use an existing landmark or logo, be sure to get permission to use it! Some designs are copyrighted and adding this (or having to destroy the pins) can be expensive.
Size: The more popular pins (with few exceptions) and most often worn pins are small. Try to keep your design under 1" in height or width. Larger pins tend to be heavy and pull on clothing. When you have your design, reduce the drawing to the actual size the pin will be--and evaluate how the design will work and what size is best.
Manufacture: There are several types of pin manufacturing available. Check around and find the one which will work best for your pin. Cloisonné is the most common, nicest, and the most expensive. Other types (enamel, silkscreen) tend to cost less and can be made with or without epoxy domes. All forms can produce attractive pins. I prefer single pole butterfly clutch backings. Safety catches are more easily damaged and make two holes in clothing; however, they can be appropriate for long pins. Check local suppliers and with other units to get names of suppliers in order to find the best price. (If you are paying more than $2.00 per pin, you may be paying too much.) I also have a list of manufacturers available.
Red Cross Logo: Technically....the Red Cross should always be on a white background with the signature (American Red Cross). Although not all units pay attention to this, you should be aware it is part of Graphic Standards.
Pricing: The average price to collectors of a chapter pin is around $4.50/$5.00. Higher than $6.00 and only "die-hard" collectors will purchase them--and sometimes not even then. You must also consider mailing costs if you plan to sell them beyond your unit. Pins MUST be padded in an envelope to prevent damage from Post Office machinery and this requires extra postage. If you are pricing your pin at the higher end of the scale, it is better that postage be included. I can help you market your pins if this is your intention.
For the History: PLEASE let me know when you produce ANY pin of any type. Even if I cannot add one to the collection, I would like to get it documented for the National History.
Shirley Powers
Volunteer Historian--Memorabilia
American Red Cross
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