Hi Kurt,
My boys are quickly become addicted to the Disney pin trading world, and I have to admit, me too! Pin trading is a fun and exciting way to bring home keepsakes of your Disney trips nd it is a great way to interact with Disney Cast Members and even other guests.
You do not need anything to begin pin trading other then a pin or two and the desire to trade. You can purchase starter sets at any Disney merchandise location and there are a number of pin stations throughout the parks and some resorts. You should start by purchasing a lanyard, which is the easiest way to display and trade your pins. The starter sets include a lanyard and a few pins, or you can purchase a lanyard and individual pins on your own. Now you are ready to trade.
Disney Cast Members wearing pins are open to trades. All you need to do is approach the Cast Member and ask to see the pins. if you see a pin you would like, offer a trade. Remember you can only trade up to two pins a day with the same Cast Member. You are able to trade with other guests too, if they are interested. You can often find the big collectors/traders at the Pin locations at Epcot or Downtown Disney,
There is a huge selection of pins to choose from, so we have found it is fun to focus on a favorite character or theme for your trading, for example, I collect any pin dealing with Pirates of the Caribbean. You may want to "stock up" on Disney pins that you are willing to part with to use for the trades. A great place to look before your Disney trip is eBay. Just search Disney pins and you will find great deals on bulk sets.
Disney Dad Bret has a great video dealing with pin trading that you can view
here. Most important thing is to have fun. Happy trading!