My wildlife lover dreams came true when I received an unexpected email from Surrey Wildlife Trust expressing admiration for my enamel pin designs. Our collaborative journey took flight as we delved into discussions about the array of wildlife thriving across their sites in the scenic Surrey Hills that they wanted me to capture in an exclusive enamel pin design. This bespoke enamel pin would be a free membership gift for those joining the Surrey Wildlife Trust community, a limited time promotion.
The challenge was to encapsulate the essence of Surrey's rich biodiversity into a single, meaningful design on a tiny pin. After numerous discussions and design iterations, we found our muse – the badger, a creature synonymous with the trust and proudly featured in their logo. The iconic Surrey Hills served as the perfect backdrop, adding a touch of local flair to our creation.To complement the pin, I crafted a unique backing card.
Mock up pin design
Aiming for sustainability, we initially envisioned the pin in traditional enamel, but our commitment to eco-friendliness led us to explore alternative materials. The final decision was to print in the UK on eco-friendly metal, retaining the charm and simplicity of an enamel pin while aligning with environmental values.
One of the initial design aspects I envisioned was leaving the text with the raw beauty of exposed metal, but as the project evolved, we decided to print the text in white before production.
This project, from dream client to eco-conscious design, stands as a testament to the power of collaboration in the realm of conservation. I never imagined, only dreamed to work with The Wildlife Trust one day, so it was amazing to work on a physical product that symbolises commitment to preserving the natural wonders of Surrey. As these pins find their way into the hands of new trust members, they carry with them a piece of Surrey's wild beauty and the shared dedication to its protection. A small pin, perhaps, but one with a big impact on the collective journey towards a greener, more sustainable future. People can wear pins and share their passion for the natural world.