A Technical Guide to Enamel Badges No Minimum Order: Grades, Specifications, and Applications

Types of Enamel Badges – No Minimum Order

Enamel badges are a versatile and stylish way to represent brands, organizations, schools, clubs, and personal achievements. With no minimum order requirements, they are ideal for small groups, startups, scout troops, or individuals who want high-quality custom badges without bulk commitments. Whether you're creating for recognition, identification, or fashion, there's a badge type to match your needs.

Soft Enamel Badges

One of the most popular and cost-effective options, soft enamel badges feature a distinctive textured surface with raised metal ridges between color-filled recessed areas.

Advantages

• Affordable with no minimum order
• Vibrant, multi-color designs possible
• Distinctive 3D texture and depth
• Ideal for intricate logos and lettering

Limitations

• Surface is not perfectly smooth
• Less durable than hard enamel under heavy wear
• Color recesses may collect dirt over time

Best for: Promotional items, school clubs, event souvenirs, and budget-friendly custom badges

Hard Enamel Badges

Also known as cloisonné badges, these are crafted with a high-temperature enameling process that results in a flawless, glass-like finish. The enamel is polished flush with the metal outline for a smooth, jewelry-grade appearance.

Advantages

• Luxurious, smooth surface feel
• Extremely durable and long-lasting
• Resistant to chipping and fading
• Elegant look suitable for formal or premium branding

Limitations

• Higher cost than soft enamel
• More complex manufacturing process
• Less contrast between metal and enamel

Best for: Corporate awards, membership pins, luxury branding, and official insignias

3D Enamel Badges

These badges go beyond flat designs by incorporating sculpted metal elements and layered enamel to create a dynamic, multi-dimensional look. The metal portions are stamped or cast to rise above the surface, offering a tactile and visually striking effect.

Advantages

• Highly artistic and eye-catching
• Excellent for emblems and logos with depth
• Unique texture and visual appeal
• Stands out on uniforms or apparel

Limitations

• Higher production cost
• Longer turnaround time
• May not be suitable for very small details

Best for: Brand emblems, collector’s items, high-end fashion accessories, and commemorative pieces

Glow-in-the-Dark Enamel Badges

Featuring photoluminescent enamel, these badges absorb light and emit a soft glow in the dark, making them fun, functional, and highly engaging.

Advantages

• Unique visual effect in low-light conditions
• Great for safety and visibility at night
• Popular for events, festivals, and outdoor activities
• Adds an element of surprise and creativity

Limitations

• Requires exposure to light to "charge"
• Glow effect diminishes over time
• Limited color options for glowing enamel

Best for: Night events, camping clubs, safety gear, children’s programs, and novelty designs

Badge Holders

Essential accessories that securely attach enamel badges to clothing, bags, or displays. Available in various materials and styles, they enhance both functionality and presentation.

Advantages

• Protects the badge from damage
• Easy to swap or reposition badges
• Available in plastic, metal, leather, and magnetic options
• Allows for temporary or formal wear

Limitations

• Additional cost if purchased separately
• Some holders may not suit all badge sizes
• Magnetic types may not be suitable for sensitive environments

Best for: Uniforms, professional attire, collectible displays, and reusable badge systems

Lanyard Badge Holders

Specially designed to hold enamel badges on lanyards worn around the neck, these are ideal for identification, events, conferences, and school programs.

Advantages

• Keeps badges highly visible and accessible
• Comfortable for extended wear
• Perfect for ID and access control
• Available in various colors and materials

Limitations

• May swing or rotate during movement
• Lanyard material can stretch or wear over time
• Not ideal for formal or discreet settings

Best for: Conferences, school IDs, volunteer programs, and corporate events

Type	Durability	Appearance	Best Use Case	Cost Level
Soft Enamel	Good	Textured, vibrant	Promotional, clubs, events	$$
Hard Enamel	Excellent	Smooth, jewelry-like	Awards, formal insignias	$$$
3D Enamel	Very Good	Dimensional, artistic	Branding, collectibles	$$$
Glow-in-the-Dark	Good	Fun, luminous	Night events, safety	$$
Badge Holders	Varies by material	Functional, customizable	Attachment & display	$
Lanyard Holders	Good	Visible, practical	ID, conferences	$

Expert Tip: When ordering enamel badges with no minimum, consider combining different types—like soft enamel for general use and hard enamel for special awards—to maximize impact while staying within budget.

Design of Enamel Badges – No Minimum Order

Creating high-quality enamel badges begins with a thoughtful and strategic design process that balances aesthetics, functionality, and brand identity. Whether you're producing a single custom badge or planning a large-scale run, modern manufacturing allows for flexible production with no minimum order requirements. This accessibility makes enamel badges ideal for startups, organizations, events, and individuals seeking unique, durable, and professional-looking accessories.

Successful badge design relies on a combination of technical precision, creative insight, and understanding of customer preferences. Below are the key design elements to consider when creating your custom enamel badge.

1. Badge Structure and Shape

Standard vs. Custom Shapes

Enamel badges are not limited to traditional circular or rectangular forms. Thanks to advanced die-cutting technology, badges can be crafted into virtually any shape—geometric, organic, or logo-based. From company mascots to national symbols, custom silhouettes enhance visual impact and brand recognition.

Popular options include rounded rectangles, stars, shields, and intricate cut-outs that follow the outline of a logo or emblem. These "shape-cut" designs are increasingly favored for their distinctive and eye-catching appearance.

Design Implications

While creative freedom is vast, it's important to consider production feasibility. Extremely fine or fragile protrusions may compromise durability. Designers recommend maintaining a minimum line thickness of 0.5mm for structural integrity.

The shape also influences how the badge sits on clothing—symmetrical or balanced designs tend to hang more evenly. Always provide vector artwork (AI, EPS, or SVG) for precise cutting and clean edges.

2. Color Selection and Enamel Types

Soft Enamel vs. Hard Enamel vs. Cloisonné

Color choice plays a pivotal role in the final look and feel of your badge. The type of enamel used directly affects color vibrancy, texture, and cost:

• Soft Enamel: Most popular and affordable. Colors are recessed below the metal ridges, creating a textured feel. Offers a wide color palette and is ideal for vibrant, multi-colored designs.
• Hard Enamel: Smooth, glass-like finish where colors are level with the metal borders. More durable and polished, often used for premium or corporate badges.
• Cloisonné: Highest-end option using enamel paste fired at high temperatures. Limited to fewer colors but delivers exceptional clarity, sharp edges, and a luxurious finish—perfect for heritage or commemorative pieces.

Brand Alignment and Color Psychology

Colors should reflect your brand identity or organizational values. For example, blue conveys trust, red suggests energy, and green represents sustainability. Pantone Matching System (PMS) colors ensure accurate color reproduction across batches.

Consider contrast and visibility—especially for small badges. Avoid placing light text on light backgrounds or using too many colors, which can appear cluttered. Most designers recommend using 2–5 colors for optimal clarity and elegance.

3. Typography and Text Elements

Incorporating text—such as names, slogans, dates, or mottos—adds a personalized and professional touch to enamel badges. However, legibility is crucial, especially on smaller sizes.

Font Selection: Choose clean, sans-serif fonts for small text (e.g., Helvetica, Arial). Avoid overly decorative or script fonts that may become unreadable at small scales.

Text Size: Ensure text is at least 1.5mm tall for readability. For lapel pins under 1 inch, limit text to essential words only.

Placement: Position text in open areas of the design, avoiding curves or busy backgrounds. Centered or arched text works well for circular badges.

Digital Tools: Use design software like Adobe Illustrator or CorelDRAW to preview how fonts render at actual size and adjust spacing (kerning) for even distribution.

4. Size and Proportions

The size of your enamel badge affects its visibility, wearability, and detail retention. Common sizes range from 0.75" to 2" in diameter or equivalent dimensions for custom shapes.

Badge Size	Common Use	Design Tips
0.75" – 1"	Lapel pins, name tags	Use simple designs; limit text and fine details
1" – 1.5"	Corporate gifts, event badges	Good balance of detail and readability
1.5" – 2"	Collectibles, commemorative pieces	Supports intricate artwork and multiple text elements

Maintain proper proportions so that no single element overwhelms the design. Use negative space effectively to enhance clarity and visual appeal.

5. Finishing Touches and Functional Elements

The final appearance and usability of your badge are significantly enhanced by finishing options and attachment methods.

Surface Finishes

The metal plating and surface treatment define the badge’s aesthetic tone:

• Polished Gold/Silver/Nickel: Shiny, modern, and professional.
• Antique Finish: Aged look with darkened recesses, ideal for vintage or heritage designs.
• Brushed Metal: Subtle texture with a matte sheen, offering a contemporary, understated elegance.

Backing Options

Choose the attachment method based on use case:

• Butterfly Clutch Pin: Standard for lapel pins; secure and easy to use.
• Magnetic Backing: Ideal for delicate fabrics or frequent wearers; no piercing required.
• Locking Pin, Safety Clutch, or Rubber Backing: Added security for heavy or valuable badges.

Pro Tip: Always request a digital proof or 3D mockup before production begins. This allows you to review colors, text, and layout accuracy—especially important when ordering with no minimum. Reputable manufacturers offer free design support to ensure your vision is perfectly realized.

Scenarios for Enamel Badges – No Minimum Order Required

Enamel badges are more than just decorative accessories—they're powerful tools for identity, recognition, and engagement. With the growing availability of custom enamel pins without minimum order requirements, businesses, organizations, and individuals can now access high-quality, personalized badges in any quantity. Whether you need a single prototype or a batch of 100, these versatile items are ideal for a wide range of applications. Below are key scenarios where enamel badges deliver maximum impact—without the need to commit to large orders.

Corporate Branding & Employee Recognition

In professional environments, enamel badges reinforce company identity and boost employee morale. Custom-designed pins featuring your logo, brand colors, or core values serve as wearable brand ambassadors.

• Recognize employee milestones such as work anniversaries, promotions, or project completions
• Distribute branded pins at onboarding to foster early engagement and pride
• Create tiered recognition systems (e.g., "Top Performer," "Team Leader") to encourage healthy competition
• Use limited-edition pins for internal campaigns or corporate social responsibility initiatives

Pro tip: Even small teams can benefit—order just a few custom pins to celebrate key staff without bulk commitments.

Conferences, Trade Shows & Networking Events

At conferences and expos, enamel badges go beyond basic name tags—they become keepsakes and conversation starters. Unlike disposable lanyards, custom pins are collected, worn, and remembered.

• Replace traditional badges with stylish enamel pins for VIPs, speakers, or sponsors
• Offer collectible series (e.g., “Day 1 Speaker,” “Workshop Attendee”) to increase engagement
• Use pins as access indicators—different colors or designs for different event zones
• Encourage networking by designing interactive pin exchanges or scavenger hunts

Key benefit: No minimum order means you can test designs or create exclusive pins for small groups without overstocking.

Educational Institutions & Student Programs

Schools, colleges, and training centers use enamel badges to celebrate achievement, build community, and promote school spirit. From honor societies to extracurricular clubs, pins provide a lasting symbol of accomplishment.

• Award pins for academic excellence, leadership, or community service
• Create club-specific badges for debate teams, robotics, or arts programs
• Design graduation or program completion pins for students and instructors
• Use pins as incentives in student reward systems

Great for small groups: Even a single class or club can get custom pins without needing to order hundreds.

Non-Profits, Fundraising & Charitable Causes

Enamel badges are highly effective fundraising tools that combine visibility with emotional connection. Supporters proudly wear cause-related pins, turning personal style into advocacy.

• Sell or donate pins to raise funds for specific campaigns (e.g., cancer awareness, environmental protection)
• Create limited-run designs for special events or awareness months
• Offer donor-tier pins (e.g., “Supporter,” “Champion,” “Ambassador”) to recognize giving levels
• Use pins as thank-you gifts for volunteers and partners

Cost-effective impact: No minimum orders allow small charities to launch branded merchandise with minimal upfront investment.

Clubs, Communities & Fan Groups

From motorcycle clubs to gaming communities and fandoms, enamel badges are a cornerstone of group identity. They signal membership, shared interests, and belonging.

• Design exclusive pins for club members, event attendees, or online community leaders
• Create themed series (e.g., “Season 1 Fan,” “Cosplay Winner”) to encourage collection
• Use pins as rewards for participation in challenges or forums
• Collaborate with artists for unique, limited-edition designs that build excitement

Perfect for niche groups: Whether you're a group of 5 or 500, you can get professionally made pins without bulk pressure.

Personal & Creative Projects

Enamel badges aren’t just for organizations—they’re also ideal for individual creators, artists, and entrepreneurs. No minimum order policies empower personal expression and small-scale ventures.

• Design custom pins for your art brand, podcast, or YouTube channel
• Offer pins as merch for Patreon supporters or crowdfunding backers
• Create wedding or birthday commemorative pins for guests
• Use pins in DIY crafts, jackets, or tote bags for a personalized touch

Creative freedom: Test your design ideas with a few samples before launching a larger run.

Smart Strategy Tip: Take advantage of no-minimum-order services to create prototypes, run small pilot campaigns, or offer exclusive limited editions. This flexibility reduces risk and allows for rapid iteration based on feedback—ideal for startups, educators, and grassroots organizations.

Use Case	Typical Quantity Needed	Design Focus	Key Benefit of No Minimum Order
Employee Recognition	5–50	Company logo, achievement text	Cost-effective rewards for small teams
Conference Attendees	20–200	Event name, dates, speaker themes	Customize for VIPs without over-ordering
School Clubs & Awards	10–100	Club name, mascot, achievement level	Accessible for small programs and budgets
Fundraising Campaigns	50–500 (scalable)	Cause symbol, slogan, donation tier	Start small, scale as demand grows
Community & Fan Groups	10–300	Inside jokes, themes, exclusivity	Test designs with core members first

Why No Minimum Order Matters

• Lower Risk: Test designs and gauge interest without financial commitment.
• Budget-Friendly: Ideal for schools, startups, and non-profits with limited funds.
• Faster Turnaround: Small orders often ship quicker than large production runs.
• Greater Flexibility: Update designs frequently for seasonal campaigns or events.
• Sustainability: Avoid overproduction and waste by ordering only what you need.

Specification & Maintenance of Enamel Badges – No Minimum Order

Enamel badges are timeless accessories valued for their durability, vibrant colors, and customizability. As a result of their unique physical and chemical properties, proper care and maintenance are essential to preserve both their structural integrity and visual appeal. Understanding the materials, construction methods, and recommended handling practices ensures customers receive a high-quality product that lasts for years. Whether you're ordering a single badge or placing a bulk custom run, this guide provides comprehensive insights into the specifications and long-term care of enamel badges—ideal for collectors, businesses, and promotional use.

Did You Know? Enamel badges can be produced with no minimum order, making them perfect for startups, limited-edition designs, or personal gifts. Customization options include shape, color, size, and attachment style—all without requiring large quantities.

Materials Used in Enamel Badges

The choice of base metal significantly impacts the badge’s durability, weight, finish quality, and overall value. Different metals are selected based on the type of enamel process used—soft enamel, hard enamel, or cloisonné.

• Iron (Ferrous Alloy): Commonly used in soft enamel badges due to its affordability and magnetic properties. Best suited for short-term use or promotional items. Prone to rust if not properly plated.
• Brass: A premium option offering excellent durability, a bright gold-like appearance, and superior resistance to corrosion. Ideal for high-end badges and long-term collectibles.
• Zinc Alloy: Lightweight and easy to mold into intricate shapes. Offers good strength and is often used in larger or 3D-style badges. Typically plated with nickel or gold for enhanced finish.
• Copper: Primarily used in hard enamel and cloisonné badges. Its excellent thermal conductivity allows for even heat distribution during the enamel-firing process, resulting in a smooth, glass-like surface.

Cloisonné Badges: These are the most durable and luxurious type, using fine metal wires to separate enamel colors, followed by multiple firings and polishing. The process is labor-intensive and more expensive, but delivers museum-quality results with exceptional color depth and longevity.

Attachment Mechanisms

The method of attachment determines how securely the badge stays in place and how comfortable it is to wear. Different mechanisms suit various applications—from clothing and bags to display cases.

• Butterfly Clasp (Pin Back): The most common attachment. A metal pin pierces the fabric, and a butterfly-shaped clutch secures it from behind. Provides a firm hold and is ideal for lapels, jackets, and hats.
• Magnetic Backing: Perfect for delicate fabrics or individuals who prefer not to pierce materials. Strong neodymium magnets hold the badge securely without damage. Great for uniforms, children’s wear, or frequent wearers.
• Safety Pin: Offers flexibility and ease of use. Often used for temporary displays or vintage-style badges. Less secure than butterfly clasps but easy to replace.
• Clutch Backs (Rubber or Metal): Used in conjunction with pin backs to prevent loss. Rubber clutches are soft and quiet; metal clutches offer more durability.

Durability & Wear Resistance

Enamel badges are known for their resilience, but performance varies by type and material:

• Hard Enamel Badges: Fired at high temperatures and polished to a smooth, level surface. Highly resistant to scratches, fading, and moisture. Ideal for outdoor use or frequent handling.
• Soft Enamel Badges: Feature recessed enamel with raised metal ridges. Slightly more prone to dirt accumulation in grooves but still durable with proper care. Offers a textured, vintage aesthetic.
• Die-Struck vs. Stamped: Die-struck badges use a pressing technique that produces finer details and greater thickness, enhancing durability over stamped versions.

Note: While enamel is highly resistant to UV light and water, prolonged exposure to harsh chemicals, saltwater, or extreme humidity can degrade plating and weaken metal over time. Choose appropriate finishes (e.g., epoxy coating) for outdoor or marine environments.

Proper Storage Techniques

Correct storage is critical to maintaining the appearance and structural integrity of enamel badges, especially for collectors or inventory holders.

• Store each badge in an individual anti-tarnish pouch or soft fabric-lined box to prevent scratches and oxidation.
• Keep badges in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, moisture, and temperature fluctuations. Avoid attics, basements, or garages where humidity and heat vary.
• Use compartmentalized display cases with UV-protective glass for showcasing collections without risking damage.
• If storing multiple badges together, ensure they are separated by padding to avoid metal-to-metal contact.

Cleaning & Maintenance

Regular cleaning keeps enamel badges looking vibrant and professional. However, improper methods can cause irreversible damage.

• For routine cleaning, use a soft microfiber cloth slightly dampened with a mixture of lukewarm water and mild dish soap.
• Gently wipe the surface, paying attention to enamel grooves and metal borders. Rinse with a damp cloth and dry immediately with a clean towel.
• Avoid abrasive cleaners, alcohol-based solutions, or ultrasonic cleaners, as these can strip plating or cloud the enamel.
• For stubborn dirt in soft enamel grooves, use a soft-bristled toothbrush (e.g., a clean makeup brush) with soapy water—never metal brushes.
• Do not soak badges, especially those with iron cores, as water can seep into the metal and cause rust.

Handling Best Practices

Even minor mishandling can leave fingerprints, oils, or micro-scratches that diminish the badge’s finish over time.

• Always handle badges with clean hands or cotton gloves to prevent transferring skin oils and acids.
• Avoid touching the enamel surface directly—hold the badge by the edges or back.
• When displaying or attaching, ensure surfaces are clean and dry to prevent residue buildup.
• For frequent handlers (e.g., event staff or vendors), consider using soft pouches or trays to minimize direct contact during distribution.

Badge Type	Base Material	Durability	Best For	Care Level
Soft Enamel	Iron, Zinc Alloy	Medium	Promotions, Events, Fashion	Moderate
Hard Enamel	Brass, Copper	High	Collectibles, Awards, Uniforms	Low
Cloisonné	Copper with Wire Inlay	Very High	Luxury Items, Diplomatic Gifts	Low-Moderate
Magnetic	Iron or Brass with Magnet	Medium	Delicate Fabrics, Kids’ Wear	Moderate

Pro Tip: Apply a thin layer of clear nail polish to the back of iron-based badges to prevent rusting in humid climates. Also, consider adding an epoxy dome coating for extra scratch and water resistance—especially useful for outdoor or high-contact applications.

Final Recommendations

• Always request material and plating specifications when ordering custom badges to ensure quality alignment with your needs.
• Choose hard enamel or cloisonné for long-term use; soft enamel is excellent for cost-effective, short-term campaigns.
• Inspect badges upon delivery for plating defects, enamel bubbles, or misaligned pins.
• Rotate displayed badges periodically to minimize UV exposure and maintain even color retention.
• Keep a maintenance log for valuable collections, noting cleaning dates and condition changes.

By understanding the specifications and following proper maintenance practices, enamel badges can remain vibrant and functional for decades. Whether you're ordering a single prototype or a full custom run with no minimum order, attention to material choice and care ensures lasting value and customer satisfaction.

Frequently Asked Questions About Custom Enamel Badges

Q1: Are there any restrictions on the design of enamel badges ordered in small quantities?

No, there are no design restrictions when ordering enamel badges in small quantities. Modern manufacturing techniques allow for full customization regardless of order size, making it ideal for startups, individuals, and small businesses.

• Shape: Choose from standard shapes like circles, rectangles, and ovals, or go for fully custom outlines including logos, animals, or abstract designs.
• Size: Available in a wide range—from tiny 15mm lapel pins to large 50mm+ statement pieces.
• Color: Full Pantone color matching ensures your brand colors are reproduced accurately using soft or hard enamel techniques.
• Text & Detailing: Fine text, intricate borders, and detailed artwork can be precisely etched and filled.

Thanks to digital prototyping and on-demand production methods, even single-piece orders can achieve professional quality without compromise.

Q2: What materials are typically used for making enamel badges?

The choice of base material impacts the badge’s durability, finish, weight, and cost. The most commonly used materials include:

Material	Characteristics	Best For
Iron	Affordable and magnetic; prone to rust if not well-coated.	Budget-friendly promotional items and temporary wearables.
Brass	Premium feel, corrosion-resistant, naturally golden hue ideal for polished finishes.	High-end badges, medals, and luxury branding.
Copper	Excellent for plating, conducts heat well, slightly softer than brass.	Detailed designs requiring smooth enamel fill.
Zinc Alloy	Durable, castable into complex 3D shapes, cost-effective for thick badges.	3D emblems, novelty pins, and heavy-duty accessories.
Laser-Cut Acrylic	Vibrant color layering, lightweight, modern appearance.	Contemporary designs, fashion accessories, and colorful displays.

Each material is paired with either soft or hard enamel, depending on the desired texture and longevity. Most metal badges are also plated with finishes like gold, silver, nickel, or black nickel for enhanced aesthetics and protection.

Q3: What is the typical production time for enamel badges with no minimum order?

For small or single-piece orders with no minimum requirement, production typically takes between 1 to 3 weeks, depending on several key factors:

• Design Complexity: Intricate designs with multiple colors, fine lines, or layered elements may require additional time for precision filling and drying.
• Manufacturing Workflow: On-demand or print-on-demand-style badge producers often batch small orders to optimize efficiency, which may slightly extend turnaround.
• Finishing Options: Add-ons like epoxy coating, antique plating, or custom backing cards can add 2–5 extra days.
• Shipping Method: Express production and global shipping options are available from many suppliers for urgent needs.

Many manufacturers offer real-time order tracking and digital proofs within 24–48 hours, ensuring transparency throughout the process. Always confirm lead times with your supplier before placing time-sensitive orders.

Q4: How should hard enamel badges be cleaned and maintained?

Hard enamel badges are built to last, but proper care helps preserve their color vibrancy and metallic finish over time. Follow these best practices:

• Cleaning Method: Gently wipe the surface with a soft, lint-free cloth dampened with mild soapy water (e.g., dish soap and warm water).
• Rinsing: If needed, rinse under lukewarm water and dry immediately with a clean cloth to prevent water spots.
• Storage: Store in a dry place, preferably in individual pouches or compartments to avoid scratches from contact with other metal items.
• Avoid: Harsh chemicals (bleach, acetone), abrasive cleaners, steel wool, or ultrasonic cleaners, as these can damage plating and dull the enamel surface.

For vintage or collectible badges, avoid over-cleaning—gentle dusting is often sufficient. Regular maintenance ensures your badges remain bright and professional-looking for years.

Q5: Are enamel badges weatherproof?

Yes, most enamel badges are designed to be weather-resistant and suitable for outdoor use. Key features contributing to their durability include:

• Sealed Enamel: Hard enamel is level with the metal border and sealed, preventing moisture from seeping underneath.
• Protective Coating: Many badges are finished with a clear epoxy or lacquer layer that shields against UV rays, rain, and humidity.
• Corrosion-Resistant Materials: Brass, copper, and zinc alloy resist rust, especially when plated with protective metals.

While enamel badges can withstand typical outdoor conditions—including brief exposure to rain and sunlight—prolonged use in extreme environments (e.g., saltwater, high heat, or industrial pollutants) may eventually cause fading, tarnishing, or coating degradation. For long-term outdoor display, consider UV-resistant epoxy coatings and stainless steel or brass bases for maximum resilience.