Button Maker and Die Cutter
American Button Machines 2.25” Circle
Used to make 2.25’’ pinback buttons. Patrons can design their own buttons and then either print the design out in the library or bring a printed sheet from home. The 2.25’’ die cut will cut paper into circles that are the correct size for the buttons. Use for decoration, gifts, name badges, or promotional materials.
What is Button Making?
A button-maker seals a paper design between a layer of mylar, a metal shell, and a pinback button. Designs are printed* or drawn on a paper and punched out with a dIe-cutter. Innovation Pointe only has a button-maker that can make circular shaped buttons.
Machine use is free and time limited. Materials available for purchase.Patrons must provide their own paper for their design.
Project Planning
Terms to Know
Mylar – the plastic film that seals the button and makes it waterproof
Shell – the metal piece around which the button is formed
Pinback – the back of the button that includes the pin
Circle Graphic Punch – a piece of equipment that will punch out paper in the proper size for 2.25” buttons
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost?
Buttons cost $.10 cents each. Patrons must provide paper design.
Does this machine require training?
Before you can use this machine, you must:
1. Have a MidPointe Library card.
2. Have completed and submitted an Innovation Pointe waiver. Waivers can be completed in the space during normal hours. Minors MUST have a parent or guardian sign in-person.
3. Complete the Competency Badging by reviewing the assigned materials and demonstrating competency with an Innovation Pointe Staff Member. Competency Badging Curriculum for review can be obtained from an Innovation Pointe Staff Member. Must be 10 years or older.
How do I plan a successful project?
Image recommendations:
High quality images print best—600 dpi recommended with extra space around the image, known as bleed.
The most important part of your image should be centered within a 2×2” circle of the 2.25×2.25” circle. You will punched the image out, however the edges (.25) will be folded around the button and not be visible. Parts of the image that extend past 2×2” may not show on the front of the button. Templates available upon request.
How long do I have to use the machine?
Patrons have 1 hour on the machine; for longer projects, patrons can reserve time.
How do I reserve the button maker?
To reserve equipment for a longer or more complicated project, you must schedule a consultation with Innovation Pointe staff. Once staff has approved the project, they will schedule your reservation.
Reservation times are: Wednesday 5:00-9:00 PM, Saturday 9:00 AM-1:00 PM, Sunday 1:00-5:00 PM.
Patrons are limited to one reservation per week.
What should I bring?
Print out your images on copy paper using our template and bring it with you or print them out from a computer station within the library. Innovation Pointe DOES NOT have a paper printer.
What are the specifications of the machine?
Our equipment is for 2.25” buttons.
Resources
Comedic overview of the button making process https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hQdCt2AhmOY
American Button Machines 2.25” Button Template https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1272/4545/files/225-Round-Button-Maker-Template.pdf?7536829068999317884
