Custom Jewels and Medals from Fratline

Custom Jewels and Medals from Fratline

Did you know? Fratline is proud to keep our Fraternal heritage and traditions alive by offering custom Fraternal jewels and medals. We can reproduce a jewel or medal from an existing piece or design and create something new for your organization. We have over 30 years of experience and have created custom jewels and medals for hundreds of satisfied clients. Checkout several examples at the link below.

Custom Jewels and Medals from Fratline

A Brief History of Masonic Aprons

  Masonic Aprons from Fratline

A Brief History of Masonic Aprons

By B. Shawn Warren, Admin & CEO of Fratline Emblematics

As Speculative Freemasonry took root in England in the eighteenth century, the evolution of the Masonic apron began. Initially, Masonic aprons were made of lambskin, as those used by operative Masons. They were of various shapes and sizes and no "standards" were enforced. With the growth of the organization, apron designs took on a life of their own. As Speculative Masonry spread across Europe, the Masonic apron evolved into an artform. With the introduction of new degrees, such as the Royal Arch, the aprons were modified to appropriately symbolize the Mason's level of membership.

Early on, Masonic aprons went from plain to highly decorated. New fabrics were introduced such as silk. There are numerous aprons that survive bearing a wide array of symbols, much like the Tracing Boards of those periods. As high degrees developed in France, we see aprons becoming much more elaborate. Before regalia houses were established, a Freemason's wife, mother or sister probably made his personal apron according to his instructions. They were decorated using various textiles and methods such as painting, embroidery and needlepoint.

While Freemasonry flourished, the organizations that governed it's Lodges began to take shape in the form of Grand Lodges. Many of these Grand Lodges began to develop regulations for their regalia, partly to establish an identity. Thus, today we see standardized regalia in the Grand Lodge of England, Scotland, Ireland, Canada and so on. Grand Lodges in the United States, tend to not have so many regulations. There are however, several jurisdictions that do. Examples are, Pennsylvania with their regalia being very "English." Other states have regulations as to size and style such as Colorado and Texas, stipulating a square, 16" x 16" body and square cut flap or bib. The Grand Lodge F & AM of Kentucky has  no actual regulation but our "traditional" size apron has been 13" x 15".

Most Grand Lodges in the United States do have uniform aprons for the Grand Lodge officers and District Deputy Grand Masters. Often, Lodge officer and member aprons are left to the discretion and tastes of the Lodge or individual.

While Sovereign Grand Commander of the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry of the Southern Jurisdiction, Ill. Bro. Albert Pike not only restructured the Rite and rewrote it's rituals, he also designed the aprons and regalia for each degree. In subsequent years, as the Rite grew, it moved to theatrical presentations of the degrees and the regalia was only used during the conferral as an example. However, in Supreme Councils abroad that evolved from the Southern Jurisdiction, where degrees are conferred in a "Lodge setting", the aprons and regalia that Pike designed are still very much employed.

Within the past decade, we have witnessed a trend to "resurrect" vintage styled aprons and we are seeing more interest in custom aprons. Recently, Fratline designed and produced custom aprons and regalia for a Lodge in Louisville, Kentucky. The designs are various shapes, styles and sizes to suit the Lodge officers and Past Masters. I think we will continue to see that develop in the coming years.

A word about Fratline(tm) Masonic Aprons… We have been manufacturing Masonic aprons since 1991. While many manufacturers look for ways to cut manufacturing costs, we have kept our eye on consistency and quality. Our aprons are made using “old world” hand embroidery techniques rather than relying on computerized machines. In other words, our aprons feature the skill of trained artisans and craftsmen. Fratline(tm) Masonic aprons are made using our exclusive patterns, unique styles and hand selected materials and trims. We feel that our Masonic aprons are a tribute to your dedication and service to the Fraternity. That’s why we will ship you nothing but the very best quality of embroidery and tailoring. View our complete selection of Masonic Aprons at the link below.

  Masonic Aprons from Fratline

Masonic and Fraternal Lapel Pins From Fratline

 Masonic and Fraternal Lapel Pins From Fratline

Why are Lapel Pins so Important to Members of Fraternal Organizations?

By B. Shawn Warren, Admin & CEO of Fratline Emblematics

What do members of fraternal organizations like more than lapel pins? Well, maybe the complimentary meal before a meeting but lapel pins run a strong second place! Lapel pins have been an important part of fraternal culture since the mid to late 1800's. EVERY American fraternal organization had dozens of different lapel pin designs made from a wide range of jewelers. In the beginning, most lapel pins were crafted by local jewelers, many of whom were members of one or more fraternal orders. When mail order catalogs and national advertising opportunities evolved, many of these businesses flourished with their offerings of "standard" lapel pin designs. From there, they developed past presiding officer pins and other designs to expand their offerings

Many of these local jewelers became suppliers on the national level and several of them survived until the 1980's. With dwindling membership in fraternal orders, not all could maintain the level of orders required to keep their doors open.  Another factor was the increasing cost of precious metals and real Gold and Silver pins became somewhat expensive. In the late 1980's many fraternal suppliers began to replicate existing lapel pin designs and offered them in base metals that could be purchased for just a few dollars.

And that's where we find ourselves today. While real precious metal lapel pins are still available, most members prefer less expensive lapel pins that can be collected and worn to a variety of meetings and events. Lapel pins are important because they identify the wearer as a member and often serve as a door to conversation about their particular fraternal order. Fratline is well known for our wide variety and large inventory of stock lapel pins for many Fraternal Organizations. From membership pins, past presiding officer pins to “years of service” pins, Fratline has you covered. You can checkout our complete selection of stock fraternal lapel pins by clicking the link below.

Masonic and Fraternal Lapel Pins From Fratline

How to Design a Custom Lapel by Fratline

 

Fraternal Lapel Pin Question and Answer Guide

How To Avoid Costly Mistakes When Designing And Ordering A Custom Lapel Pin or Emblem

    This guide contains excerpts from the handbook, The Ultimate How-To Guide For Creating Your Custom Fraternal Lapel Pin.  To learn how to obtain a copy of The Ultimate How-To Guide For Creating Your Custom Fraternal Lapel Pin, please refer to the end of this guide.

    It’s no secret that the members of fraternal organizations, clubs and associations enjoy receiving, wearing and even collecting lapel pins.  Lapel pins identify the individual as a member and they are a great source of pride for those who wear them.  Badges, medals and insignia of membership are as old as the institutions themselves.  Lapel pins and emblematic jewelry items have become an important part of fraternal culture the world over.

    Fraternal organizations can use custom lapel pins in a variety of ways.  Lapel pins are used to promote membership, commemorate the term of a presiding officer, celebrate anniversaries, recognize veteran members and raise funds for charitable and other projects.

    Lapel pins and emblematic jewelry are (1) VERSATILE – appropriate for men and women; older members appreciate them and youth think they’re fun; they come in virtually limitless sizes, shapes and color combinations.  (2) DURABLE – they last; most people have emblematic jewelry items that were handed down from their parents and grandparents.  (3) COST EFFECTIVE – no other item can be customized by size, shape, quantity and process to fit any budget.

    Now I’ll answer common questions associated with ordering custom lapel pins.

What things should I consider when designing my custom pin?

    The elements of your design will include:  theme, symbols, colors, shape and size.  Your theme will depend greatly on the purpose of the pin.  For example:  If you’re designing a pin to commemorate your term as presiding officer, maybe you have adopted a slogan that embodies your goal for the term.  This slogan can be incorporated into your design in order to promote your theme during the term.  If you’re designing a pin to celebrate your organization’s anniversary you’ll want to include the name, location and anniversary date into the design.

What symbols or emblems should I include?

    Most fraternal organizations have many symbols from which to choose, each with their own meaning.  However, there is usually one primary symbol or logo that is most commonly used.  In Freemasonry, it’s the square and compasses with the letter “G”.  With the Odd fellows, it’s the “three links”.  In some organizations the presiding officer may adopt an emblem he or she likes that’s not necessarily taken from the ritual or symbolism of the organization.  How about a bird, flower or fruit?  If you’re from Georgia, a peach would be appropriate.  You can use one symbol or several, the choice is yours.

How should I determine what, if any colors to use?

    Does your organization have standard colors that you would like to include?  The Order of the Eastern Star’s primary symbol contains five colors that make a beautiful emblem.  Choose colors that you like.  If you’re of Irish heritage, use some green.  When asked about the color, you’ll have the opportunity to talk about it!  Pins don’t always have to include color.  Many designs look beautiful in bright gold or silver finishes without enameling.  With the variety of manufacturing processes, the sky is the limit.  You may want to consider a die struck pin that has an “antique” or even a “sandblasted” finish.

What shape and size should I choose?

    There are literally hundreds of “standard” shapes of pins.  Standard shapes include:  round, oval, square, rectangle, triangle, state outlines, flags and everything in between.  Membership pins and presiding officer pins are often made in the shape of the respective state or jurisdiction.  Would your symbol be a good overall shape for your pin?  If your primary symbol / emblem is an apple, you could make the outer shape that of an apple, put additional symbols and your name and year inside the shape and enamel it in red.  Sometimes the information and symbols to be included on the pin dictate the shape.

    The size of your pin is very important.  A good rule to follow is this:  If you can’t easily read what’s on the pin, it’s too small!  Pins are typically made in sizes from 1/2” to 1-1/2” and cost varies with size.  After you’ve sketched out your design and decided on a shape, you’re ready to select a size.  A trick to determining size is to use a photocopier.  For best results, draw your design on plain white paper using black ink.  Place the paper on the photocopier and shrink the image.  Keep shrinking it until it looks right to you and the wording is still legible.  Using a ruler, measure the design at the longest distance between points.  Example:  a square is measured diagonally.

How do I know what manufacturing process will be the best choice for my design?

    We offer several manufacturing processes to our customers.  By far, the most popular processes are Cloisonné and Acid Etched Soft Enamel.  You must consider how much detail your pin will require because some processes may not be suited to your design.  For example:  If exact color matching is required, some processes can’t be used.  Review the processes offered and take a look at quality samples.  When in doubt, forward your design sketch for a professional recommendation.

What is included in the price of a custom pin?

    We can only answer this question using our own policies.  Our base price includes standard shapes, either gold or nickel plating, up to five colors of your choice, an epoxy dome (if applicable), a military clutch back or safety pin attachment and individual poly bag packaging.

I’ve heard that I must pay a die charge in order to have a custom pin made?

    Again, we can only answer this question using our own policies.  While it’s true that the majority of lapel pin suppliers make customers pay die and set-up charges, that’s NOT our practice.  Die charges for custom pins can range from $75 to $300 or more from other sources.  M. Warren & Co. is a DIRECT supplier.  Due to the volume of custom fraternal lapel pins we sell, we are able to pass incredible savings on to our customers.  With M. Warren & Co. there are NEVER any lapel pin die charges, set-up charges or color match fees.

How many pins should I order?

    The answer to this question depends on several factors.  Whether the pins are to be sold or distributed at no cost; the size of the organization; in what time frame will the pins be distributed; etc.  We suggest that you be conservative.  You don’t want to get “stuck” with a bunch left over.  Besides, you can always order more.

How long will it take to manufacture my custom pin?

    In general, we ask that our customers allow four to six weeks.  By allowing ample time you won’t have to worry about your order being delayed.  Also, you’ll avoid rush charges and expensive express delivery costs.

    We have specialized in custom fraternal lapel pins for over thirty years.  Notice that we said FRATERNAL lapel pins.  Fratline ™ has quickly become the best known name in custom fraternal lapel pins and emblems.  Of course, there are a number of companies from which you could purchase your custom pin, but none have the combined years of experience, involvement in the organizations and the best guarantee – 100% Satisfaction.

    We’re sure you agree that it makes sense to order from folks who know about your organization and understand your needs.  We are proud members of most of the organizations that we serve.  Because we specialize, we have compiled one of the most complete libraries of fraternal emblems available.

    When you choose M. Warren & Co. to supply your custom pins, you can depend on:  the best selection to fill your needs, quality to meet your demands, competitive pricing to fit your budget and on-time delivery to meet your schedule.

 https://www.fratline.net

© 2007 B. Shawn Warren.  All rights reserved.

About The Author

Shawn Warren is President of M. Warren & Co. located in Louisville, Kentucky.  He is a member and past presiding officer of several fraternal organizations.  Since 1991, M. Warren & Co. has been supplying fraternal groups and associations with custom lapel pins, emblematic jewelry and souvenirs.  Fratline ™ EMBLEMATICS has quickly become the best known name in custom fraternal lapel pins and emblems nationwide.  M. Warren & Co. is listed with the Jeweler’s Board of Trade, Kentucky Manufacturer’s Register and the Advertising Specialty Institute.  In 1996, Shawn received certification from the Gemological Institute of America as an insurance replacement appraiser.  He is also a graduate of the Drouhard National Jewelers School, Columbus, Ohio.  https://www.fratline.net

 Checkout Fratline's Custom Lapel Pin Special Offers Here

Masonic and Fraternal Auto Emblems from Fratline

Masonic and Fraternal Auto Emblems from Fratline 

Masonic and Fraternal Auto Emblems: A Way to Display Your Pride in Membership

By B. Shawn Warren, Admin & CEO of Fratline Emblematics

I was fortunate to grow up in an environment where my father, uncles, grandfathers, great grandfathers and most men in my life were Freemasons. Along with wearing their Masonic rings, most of them displayed Masonic decals or auto emblems on their vehicles. When I joined the Order of DeMolay in 1984, one of the first DeMolay items I acquired was a decal. While it was a couple of years before I bought my first car, when I finally did, that decal was proudly applied and displayed.

I was eligible to join the Knights of Pythias before Freemasonry and when that happened, guess what? That Order's emblem was also displayed on my vehicle. When I was finally raised as a Master Mason, the Masonic Square and Compasses emblem was also added to my vehicle. I was proud to be a member of these great fraternal organizations and I wanted everyone to know it too!

Now, 30 years later, while membership in the great fraternal orders of America has waned, I still proudly display my fraternal auto emblems. I remember driving around town, taking short trips and vacations and seeing these emblems much more often than I do today. It was nothing to pull beside another driver and give a wave, a nod or even a "sign." There have been a few occasions where I stopped for a broken down vehicle on the side of the road having noticed a Masonic auto emblem to offer assistance.

While times have certainly changed, those of us who are members of these great fraternal organizations should continue to display to the world, our pride in membership. Fratline offers a wide variety of Masonic and fraternal auto emblems in both die struck aluminum, brass and cast zinc. All feature double faced adhesive backing for easy and lasting application. Checkout our complete selection by clicking on the link below!

Masonic and Fraternal Auto Emblems from Fratline 

Knight Commander Court of Honour Synthetic Badge

 Knight Commander Court of Honour Synthetic Badge

Knight Commander Court of Honour Synthetic Badge: The jewel is called the “Synthetic Badge” because it synthesizes, brings together, the teachings of Masonry. It is a rectangle of gold, one inch long and one-half an inch wide, in the form of a double square. Within it are embedded three sparkling clear stones, in the form of a triangle with three equal sides, the apex pointing upward. Its form will remind you of the first steps in Masonry: the oblong square of the step of the Entered Apprentice. Its gold base, the metal of the sun, itself a symbol of intellectual light and knowledge, as its genial warmth is of loving-kindness and sympathy, may suggest to you your continuing duty to spread the blessings of education and abound in charitable deeds; while the triangle of reflected light will impress you and each of us that the highest teachings of the fraternity of Freemasons is symbolized by the triangle. The badge sums up all Masonry, and we should wear it as a constant reminder of our duty to be a true Mason.

Knight Commander Court of Honour Synthetic Badge

Scottish Rite 33rd Degree Inspector General Honorary Merchandise from Fratline

Scottish Rite 33rd Degree Inspector General Honorary Merchandise from Fratline

Achieving the 33rd Degree is an honor that can be bestowed upon a Scottish Rite Mason. It is not campaigned for. It is granted solely by a Supreme Council. A 33rd Degree Mason is a Master Mason who has exhibited knowledge, passion and sacrifice to his Craft. A Supreme Council awards the 33rd Degree as a way of honoring outstanding and selfless work performed in the Rite or in public life. At its regular session a Supreme Council elects members of the Rite to receive the degree. Members unanimously so elected become Honorary Members of the Supreme Council. Fratline offers the largest selection of unique 33rd Degree jewelry and regalia available today. The Supreme Council of the Southern Jurisdiction meets in Biennial Session this August. Fratline offers a huge selection of 33rd Degree Inspector General Honorary regalia, jewelry and accessories.  Click the link below to view our complete selection. #fratline

Scottish Rite 33rd Degree Inspector General Honorary Merchandise from Fratline 

Knight Commander Court of Honour Merchandise from Fratline

Knight Commander Court of Honour Merchandise from Fratline 

The Scottish Rite (Southern Jurisdiction, USA) confers a number of honors upon members who have contributed extraordinary service to the Rite, to Masonry in general and to the world at large. The first of these is the Rank and Decoration of a Knight Commander of the Court of Honour (K.C.C.H.), which may be conferred after a minimum of 46 months of membership and is strictly limited in numbers. The Supreme Council will meet in Biennial Session this August. Fratline offers a huge selection of Knight Commander Court of Honour regalia, jewelry and accessories. Click the link below to view. #fratline

 Knight Commander Court of Honour Merchandise from Fratline 

Custom Shrine Fezzes from Fratline - Part 3

 

The fez is one of the most recognizable symbols of the Shriners and was adopted as the Shriners’ official headgear in 1872. Named after the city of Fez, Morocco, the hat represented the Arabian theme the fraternity was founded on. Some historians claim it dates back to about A.D. 980, but the name of the fez, or tarboosh, does not appear in Arabic literature until around the 14th century. One of the earliest references to the headgear is in “Arabian Nights.” It serves as an outward symbol of one’s membership in the fraternity. Much like the white apron worn by Freemasons as a symbol of their brotherhood, the fez is worn only by Shriners as a symbol of their membership in this unique fraternity. Fratline is pleased to offer the highest quality Shrine fezzes at affordable prices with the fastest delivery time in the industry.

Checkout Fratline's Complete Shrine Fez Selection Here

Custom Shrine Fezzes from Fratline - Part 2

 

The fez is one of the most recognizable symbols of the Shriners and was adopted as the Shriners’ official headgear in 1872. Named after the city of Fez, Morocco, the hat represented the Arabian theme the fraternity was founded on. Some historians claim it dates back to about A.D. 980, but the name of the fez, or tarboosh, does not appear in Arabic literature until around the 14th century. One of the earliest references to the headgear is in “Arabian Nights.” It serves as an outward symbol of one’s membership in the fraternity. Much like the white apron worn by Freemasons as a symbol of their brotherhood, the fez is worn only by Shriners as a symbol of their membership in this unique fraternity. Fratline is pleased to offer the highest quality Shrine fezzes at affordable prices with the fastest delivery time in the industry.

Checkout Fratline's Complete Shrine Fez Selection Here

Custom Shrine Fezzes from Fratline - Part 1

 

The fez is one of the most recognizable symbols of the Shriners and was adopted as the Shriners’ official headgear in 1872. Named after the city of Fez, Morocco, the hat represented the Arabian theme the fraternity was founded on. Some historians claim it dates back to about A.D. 980, but the name of the fez, or tarboosh, does not appear in Arabic literature until around the 14th century. One of the earliest references to the headgear is in “Arabian Nights.” It serves as an outward symbol of one’s membership in the fraternity. Much like the white apron worn by Freemasons as a symbol of their brotherhood, the fez is worn only by Shriners as a symbol of their membership in this unique fraternity. Fratline is pleased to offer the highest quality Shrine fezzes at affordable prices with the fastest delivery time in the industry.

 Checkout Fratline's Complete Shrine Fez Selection Here