Button Backings Explained: Safety Pin, Magnet, Bulldog Clip & Fridge Magnets
Not all buttons are made the same! The backing you choose can completely change how your custom button is worn, displayed, or even sold. At Button Bros, we offer a variety of backing options so your pins fit the purpose perfectly. From classic safety pins to retail-friendly fridge magnets, here’s your guide.
Comparison Chart: Button Backings
| Backing Type | How It Works | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety Pin (Pin-back) | Metal safety pin fastens through fabric | Secure hold, budget-friendly, classic | Can pierce or mark fabric | Everyday wear, giveaways, band merch |
| Clothing Magnet | Magnetic back holds button to fabric without piercing | No fabric damage, easy to attach/remove | Weaker grip on thick fabric, higher cost | Name tags, uniforms, trade shows |
| Bulldog / Swivel Clip | Spring clip grips onto clothing, badge reels, lanyards | No puncture, easy to reposition | Visible hardware, limited to thinner fabrics | Events, conferences, staff passes |
| Fridge Magnet | Flat magnet replaces the pin, turning button into a fridge magnet | Practical, collectible, long lifespan | Not wearable; for display only | Retail souvenirs, promotional giveaways, fundraising |
Backing Type Deep Dive
Safety Pin (Pin-back)
The industry standard for decades. Simple, strong, and cost-effective. Ideal for bulk custom buttons, concerts, and campaigns.
Clothing Magnet
Perfect for uniforms, formalwear, or when you don’t want to poke holes in clothing. Great as magnetic badges at trade shows or retail floors.
Bulldog / Swivel Clip
A clip backing lets you attach buttons without piercing fabric. Popular for conferences, lanyards, and staff ID buttons. Easy on/easy off.
Fridge Magnet Backing
This option replaces the pin with a strong flat magnet, transforming your button into a fridge magnet. Retailers love this format — it turns your button into a collectible piece customers will keep for years on their fridge, locker, or office cabinet. Perfect for gift shops, bands, and non-profits looking to add a useful, long-lasting keepsake to their merch table.
Which Backing Is Right for You?
- Everyday wear & promos → Safety Pin
- Formalwear / uniforms → Clothing Magnet
- Events & passes → Bulldog Clip
- Retail souvenirs → Fridge Magnet
FAQ: Button Backings at Button Bros
- Do you stock all of these backings?
- We always offer safety pins, and we can make magnets, clips, and fridge magnet backs on request. Email us for a custom quote.
- Can fridge magnet buttons still be worn?
- No — fridge magnet buttons are designed for display, not wearing. If you want wearable magnets, choose a clothing magnet backing.
- Are magnet backs safe around electronics?
- Clothing magnets are fine in most cases, but we recommend caution near sensitive devices like pacemakers.
- What sizes are available with different backings?
- Most button sizes (1.25", 1.5", 2.25", 3") can be made with alternate backings. Just ask us when requesting your order.
- How do I order a custom backing type?
- Since not all options are live on our site, the easiest way is to send us a message. We’ll provide a fast quote.
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