How to Repair a Broken Pin or Brooch

We all love purchasing and wearing various pins and brooches and over time the pin back mechanism can become damaged or even break. If this has happened to you then you know how frustrating and expensive it can be to have it fixed. Today, we are going to tell you how you can quickly, easily and affordably fix it yourself!

Most pins and brooches have a flat-backed bar pin as it's pinning mechanism and these can easily be purchased at most local craft or jewelry supply stores for just a few dollars. You will also need some good thread, wire or jeweler's glue depending on the type of pin you are repairing. Take a look at the back of your pin before you go shopping for repair supplies.

Here is what to look for on the back. Was it sewn on with wire or strong thread? If so, you will need to purchase a similar product. Was it glued on? If so, you will need to purchase some jewelers glue.

Using your hands or needle nose pliers you will want to remove the old pin back gently and carefully. Once it has been completely removed and any residue cleaned off you can begin your repair. If you are sewing a new pin back on we recommend that you use good carpet thread (it's thicker than sewing thread) or use flexible sewing wire. If you are worried about it falling off, you can add a drop or two of jeweler's glue to secure your thread/wire and let it dry for 3-4 days before wearing it.

If you just want to remove the old broken pin back and put a new one on with some strong jeweler's glue, you can do that too! (Do not use craft glue or household glue...you need good quality strong adhesive glue.) Let it dry according to package instructions before wearing your newly repaired pin.

Interested in more information about jewelry care? Click here to read Jewelry Boxes for Women: The essentials of jewelry storage and care.

by Jasmine Yesak, Contributing Editor at ChasingTreasure.com, online retailer of quality jewelry boxes, jewelry organizers and watch boxes. Jasmine is a Jewelry Enthusiast and Organization Consultant, she writes about Jewelry Care and Jewelry Storage Tips.