Things You'll Need
Instructions
Gather lapel pins by purchasing one each time you visit a new city, trading pins with other collectors or looking through relatives' old trunks or boxes--with their permission, of course. A deceased relative's belongings are a great start for locating vintage lapel pins that represent both a family heritage and sentimentality. You may find a blue star service lapel pin which, according to the Pentagon, is given to immediate family members of those serving in the Armed Forces in war or times of hostility. Also, lapel pins often are part of an organization's history, according to Rotary International, which has a collection of lapel pins to mark the organization's life. Purchase new lapel pins that you like and that reflect your interests and personality. Lapel pins can be whimsical or serious. Choose a variety of pins.
Clean lapel pins that are dirty. Wash gently with warm water, soap and a soft cloth. If you have lapel pins that are tarnished, consider using a universal metal cleaner, jewelry cleaner or adhesive remover. You can buy these from online vendors, jewelers, or check with your local home construction store.
Display your collection in a lapel pin binder or a wood display box. Both of these options provide decorative ways to support and show off your lapel pin collection. If your collection is especially large, consider using several display binders or cases instead of trying to stuff your pins into one binder or case.