Button making is fundamentally very simple, and usually doesn't require a great deal of time to make by hand. Button making can be done either by machine (for large quantities) or by hand (for smaller quantities). The following explains how to make buttons in four simple steps:
Button production step 1: Create motifs
This step in button production is primarily characterized by creativity. The only limitations are the shape and size of the buttons. This part of the button production process can be varied according to taste and preference. One option for creating the motif is to use online design software. The so-called button generator allows the user to create a custom design for the buttons. Another option is to design the motif by hand. This requires design skills, imagination, and creativity when making buttons.
Button production step 2: Printing buttons
The second step in button production requires a printer. The designs created with the button generator must be printed onto paper inserts, which are placed between the top and bottom of the button with a transparent film. If you have a printer at home, you can print the designs directly onto the paper. You can also send the saved files to a print shop and have them printed on paper—a good idea if you don't have a printer, or if you only have an old printer with poor print quality. During this step of button production, you should ensure that the printing paper is of good quality so that the buttons look professional in the end.
Button production step 3: Cutting or punching out paper templates
A very important step in button making is creating the circular paper inserts. The self-designed motif, printed on the copy paper, must now be cut or punched out into a circle or oval. You can cut the paper either with regular scissors or a paper circle cutter, or you can punch it out with a paper punch, hole punch, or hole punch. Precision is paramount in this step of button making.
Button production step 4: Button kit variant or button machine variant?
Basically, there are two different types of button making. Both options have the advantage that no "professional knowledge" is required for button making.
The first method of button production involves snapping individual button kits together. These kits are usually made of plastic and can be assembled easily without tools. This method is particularly recommended for small-batch button production.
Another variant of button production is pressing the various individual button parts together using a button-making machine. The individual parts are usually made of metal in this method. This variant has the advantage of achieving very high quality in the end. This method of button production is particularly worthwhile if you want to produce a larger number of pieces.