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How to Design Your Custom Pocket Badge
Your guide to designing your custom pocket badge for police, fire, or security uniform.
Pocket badges, also known as acrylic pocket holders, are an elegant way to display a police, fire, or security badge when wearing formal attire like a suit or sport coat. The pocket badge is an assembly of a clear acrylic holder, a badge, and one or two engraved nameplates, creating a professional, polished look.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the simple steps of designing your custom pocket badge.
Step 1: Choose Your Badge
To create a pocket badge, you'll first need to design it. Typically, you'll want to use the full-size version of your badge, although you might consider a smaller version if available. You cannot use your shirt or coat badge for this purpose because the acrylic holder is not compatible with a pin and safety catch, so you'll need to order a new one manufactured specifically to permanently attach to the acrylic pocket holder.
Step 2: Add Engraved Nameplates
The next component of your pocket badge is the engraved nameplate(s). Most pocket badges have one or two nameplates to display additional information such as your name, rank, or department. The engraved plates can be positioned either above or below the badge.
When ordering, it’s important to ensure your nameplates match your badge. For example, if your badge has a Gol-Ray finish, we recommend ordering Gol-Ray nameplates for a consistent, professional appearance. Similarly, if your badge lettering is in blue, consider matching the nameplate lettering for a cohesive look.
Step 3: Finalize Your Pocket Badge
Once you’ve selected your badge and nameplate specifications, we take care of the rest. Your custom badge, nameplate(s), and clear acrylic holder are assembled for you. When your pocket badge arrives, it will be ready for immediate wear.
Our standard acrylic pocket holders are designed to slide seamlessly into the front pocket of a suit or sport coat. For those wearing clothing without a front pocket, we also offer a version that uses magnets to secure the badge, which is ideal for female officers or for other attire without pockets.
Why Choose a Pocket Badge?
Pocket badges are a popular option for formal occasions or when a full uniform isn’t required. They offer a professional way to display your credentials while wearing a suit or coat. Plus, our design process ensures that your badge and nameplates are perfectly coordinated for a polished appearance.
How to Order
We understand that ordering a pocket badge can feel complex if you’re unfamiliar with the process, but it’s actually quite simple. If you’re interested in designing a custom pocket badge, contact our sales team or an authorized Smith & Warren dealer. We'll guide you through every step to ensure your badge looks perfect.