Joanna Behar, creator of the best seller 'FUCK' pin, sits down to answer these five fire questions about the pin industry and how she became a leading example in the game!
What would you say is your main practice?
I am a graphic designer/illustrator and hand lettering artist. I went to school in NYC for a BFA in communication design and got to learn so much there. I only discovered and started lettering a few years after I graduated though, I’m thankful to have been able to practice and learn solo using tools like skillshare and other tutorials!
What led you to create enamel pins?
In 2016, I really wanted to start my own business and sell my products; I wasn’t sure what to make aside from prints. A Few months earlier, I had started collecting Disney pins and started following artists on Instagram who were making pins. I found the idea so amazing and just had to figure out how to make my own.
It was a rocky beginning finding a manufacturer but thankfully I figured out how to do proper research and had a lot of help from the pin community, which I will always be thankful for.
Which pin are you most proud of?
I love ALL the pins I’ve made but I do have some favourites. My second pin ever was my "Fuck" pin and it will always be my baby. I just love seeing people wear that pin. My most challenging pins were my "Pixel Heart" pins and my “Let Me Sleep” pins. Thank god I found a factory good enough to pull off all that screen-printing!
What is one piece of advice you would give to someone starting their own pin brand?
Do lots and lots of research! That is and will always be my main advice. Once you have as much research done as possible, only then can you ask for some help if you really need it. I’m always glad to help when I get asked on social media if I can tell the person has done their research and has really tried to make it on their own. You will learn faster and be stronger if you try to figure things out for yourself.
Don’t forget to never give up and don’t be afraid to ask for help if you are really struggling! I also recommend watching Becky’s tutorials from “The Pink Samurai” brand on YouTube where she helps you get started making pins.
Who would you say are "ones to watch" at the moment?
Oooh, so many favs. My all-time favourite pin design right now I have to say, would be anything StudioCult makes. Not only pins mind you, she makes the most amazing jewellery and purses! Go check her out you’ll fall in love instantly!
We are in love with all of Joanna's designs and hope that this short round of questions has inspired or motivated you to get started on your own pin project or even start collecting pins! Try out our instant quote form to get started.
Check out Joanna's curated section on our site! More stock updating soon!
