Types of Backings for Name Tags

The design and contents of a name tag are important, but so is the backing! Customers want to make sure that their name tag or photo ID will stay where it should, without causing damage to clothing or covering up the name, logo or photo on the badge. At NameTagWizard.com we offer 8 options for pinning or holding name tags and badges in place. These include magnets, badge pins, swivel clips, mylar clips, military bars, horizontal or vertical ID badge holders and lanyards.

The backing you choose depends on the type of name tag or badge and the type of clothing to be worn. You can shop all of our name badge backings here.

These are our most common questions related to backings:

1.What are hole punches for on your photo ID cards? Hole punches are to be used with clips and lanyards. They allow you to attach our bulldog clips or mylar clips to the card and clear holder.

2. When do I need a hole punch? You should choose a hole punch if you intend to use clips and/or lanyards with your ID cards.

3. If I have a hole punch on my clear badge holder, do I also need one on the ID card? No, the holder already has a hole to attach to a clip and/or lanyard. However, if you want to take the ID card out and wear it, you would want a hole in the card.

4. Will the backing I choose cover my company logo or design? If you’re designing your own ID cards, you must pay attention to where the hole punch is located on the template. The hole punches are there as a guide. Keep any pictures or text below the hole punch. For example, our pre-designed template below is safe from being covered by clips or other options.

5. How thick of clothing material can be worn if I choose a magnetic backing? We suggest only wearing magnetic name tags with shirts or thin jackets. These magnets may not hold securely on thick jackets or materials.

Our backing options:

Magnets – Magnetic backings are a popular choice because they hold the badge in place without the use of pins. Pins, over time, can cause unwanted holes in clothing. Magnetic backings can be added to each name tag you order. Simply select the option in the “backing” dropdown. See more information about our magnets here.

Plastic badge pins – These traditional pins are used for fastening everything from clothing accessories to name tags. Pins are known for their low price, compared to magnets that are a $2.00 additional charge.

Swivel clips – The swivel clip attaches itself via clip to your clothing without puncturing and damaging your clothes. It has an extra stable spring for securing neatly and rests the name tag upon an adhesive plastic swivel base. The clip itself is reusable and comes with the adhesive strip to attach your badge risk and hassle free.

Mylar clips – Mylar clips feature an enduring spring that will hold the badge in place and a clear vinyl strap. These clips are used with ID cards that have a hole punch. You can reuse this vinyl badge clip over and over again and with repeated assurance that your name badge will be held securely in place. We offer clear badge holders that can also be used with these mylar clips.

Military bars – These 2 inch wide bars attach to the back of name tags with adhesive. The metal clutches fasten to the pins to hold the name tag in place. Military bars are a traditional option to pinning badges and accessories, and feature two pins that will leave holes in clothing.

Horizontal clear ID badge holders – Horizontal clear vinyl holders protect the surface of photo ID cards from scratching and wearing. They display horizontal cards with ease, and will not cover up photos or logos on the card. These sleeves measure 2.75 inches by 3.75 inches and have a horizontal punch at the top that allows you to attach a mylar clip or lanyard.

Vertical clear ID badge holders – Many customers choose to order vertical ID cards. Our vertical clear vinyl holders protect the surface of photo ID cards from scratching and wearing. They display horizontal cards with ease, and will not cover up photos or logos on the card. These sleeves measure 4.5 inches by 2.75 inches and have a horizontal punch at the top that allows you to attach a mylar clip or lanyard.

Clear Vertical ID Badge Holder — Vertical Badge Holder

Lanyards – Polyester lanyards are traditionally used with ID cards and clear badge holders. Our lanyards attach to the holder and ID card with a bulldog clip. You can choose from black, blue or red lanyards, each option measures 36 inches around, and is 1.5 inches thick or wide. Lanyards offer an alternative to clips and pins that can damage clothing. They also offer easy wear and removal for events, conferences, schools and more.