Introducing The Super-Dooper, Multi-Purpose, Graphic Punch Cleaner! November 10 2017

Button maker maintenance is important to keep your hand press is good working condition. However, the graphic punch does a lot of work too, and every once in a while, also needs some TLC. We are now carrying a new tool to clean your graphic punch and avoid costly circle cutter repairs!

Thanks to the Graphic Punch Cleaner,  graphic punch repair has never been easier! Add this product to your button making toolbox so that you can fix your graphic punch on the spot.

Just slide the paper thin piece of metal in the slot where the paper is inserted, and slowly move it around to clear out small bits of paper, adhesive, and whatever else gets stuck in there! Seconds later, you'll have a graph punch that's like new again!

NEW! Check out this video to see just how this handy little tool works along with some other maintenance tips for your circle cutter.

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Fun Giveaway Idea for Spring Trade Shows with 2.5” x 3.5” Rectangle Magnets and Pocket Mirrors May 09 2017

Hooray, it’s Spring!

Besides warmer weather, it is also time for Spring trade shows and the start of a busy wedding season. Want a great, fun giveaway idea? 2.5” x 3.5” Rectangle Magnets and Pocket Mirrors are the answer!

TWO new Button Guy videos!

Learn how simple it is to make 2.5” x 3.5” Rectangle Magnets and Pocket Mirrors with two new videos from The Button Guy! The first video walks you through making 2.5” x 3.5” Peel n' Stick Rectangle Magnets.

The second new Button Guy video shows the step-by-step process of making 2.5” x 3.5” Rectangle Purse/Pocket Mirrors. Making mirrors is fun, but there are a few tricks here that will help you be successful.

Why this size?

The 2.5" x 3.5" rectangle is great size for making magnets and mirrors because you get maximum surface space to display your artwork. With a bigger mirror you have a practical item to sell or give away to Spring trade show and wedding guests. People will actually want to stick these mirrors in their purse or bag to use all the time!

Getting started!

To get started you will need the 2.5” x 3.5” Rectangle Button Maker Kit. This machine also comes with pinback parts. To make magnets, you will need to order 2.5” x 3.5” Rectangle Peel n’ Stick Magnets and to make pocket mirrors, you will need to order 2.5” x 3.5” Rectangle Pocket Mirrors.

If you are loving this fun giveaway idea, but not ready to get your own button maker or don't have the time to make them - we did say busy wedding season - then we can do it for you! We have many design options available so you can send us your artwork or we can design from scratch or we can do something in between. 

See the options for custom 2.5" x 3.5" peel n' stick rectangle magnets.

Check out the choices for custom 2.5" x 3.5" rectangle pocket/purse mirrors here. 

Take a look to see all of our custom magnet sizes here and all of our custom mirror sizes here.

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Making Metallic Silver & Gold Buttons with Dura-Lar April 26 2017

We're really excited about making metallic gold and silver buttons with Dura-Lar!!

Using Dura-Lar Film is the easiest way to make Do-It-Yourself buttons that look lavish and luxurious.

In this video, Dura-Lar is used with Gold and Silver Reversible Metallic Dura-Lar to make gorgeous, shiny, pinback buttons that are great for holidays and special occasions. Check it out!

The SILVER & GOLD DURA-LAR used in this video is reversible, with gold on one side and silver on the other. The Metallic Dura-Lar Foil is 2mm thick, comes in standard 8.5 x 11" sheets, and has an EXTREMELY reflective mirror-like finish. Doesn't that sound awesome for a button??!

**When making Dura-Lar Buttons, it is the Glossy or Matte Dura-Lar that goes through the printer, and NOT the metallic Dura-Lar! The metallic Dura-Lar foil goes behind the transparent Dura-Lar film. **

Curious to see some other examples of buttons made with Dura-Lar Film and reflective Metallic Dura-Lar Foil? Here are some older blog posts that feature buttons with special finishes! Which one do you like the best?

Get That New Year's Sparkle All Year Long With Holographic Foil
Buttons for Chinese New Year: Year of the Rooster
Feeling Lucky? It's St. Patrick's Day

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Learn How to Make 2 x 3" Rectangle Pinback Buttons March 23 2017

Rectangle pinback buttons are a neat shape and lend themselves well to making name tags, accommodating rectangular logos or photographs, and are awesome for fridge magnets too!

We love rectangular pinback buttons, and thought that you might be just as excited as we are! Check out this video courtesy of The Button Guy on How to Make 2 x 3" Rectangle Buttons!

Interested in making some of these yourself? Click on the link to find Parts & Supplies for 2" x 3" Rectangle Pinback Buttons on our website, or get more info on the 2" x 3" Rectangle Hand Press that was used in the video :)

We also carry parts and hand presses for other sizes of rectangle pinback buttons including 1-3/4 x 2-3/4", and  2-1/2 x 3-1/2".

Rather have us make some buttons or magnets for you? Cool! We also offer Custom Rectangle Buttons in a variety of sizes. Click on the link or send us an email to find out more :)

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Feeling Lucky? It's St. Patrick's Day! March 17 2017

Today is the day we all see a little green. Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

We had a little fun creating our own button gold at the end of the rainbow.

These shiny buttons were made using Dura-Lar transparent film. Learn how we did it with this post all about using Dura-Lar with your buttonmaker. 

We hope your day is full of some extra luck too, even if you have to make it yourself.

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Standard 2" Buttons: What's up with the Plastic Back? March 01 2017

If you've ever looked into getting a Standard 2" Round Button Maker, you may have noticed that the 2" Pinned Back is a little different than every other size of button. It's made of black plastic instead of metal.

There is reasoning behind the 2" Plastic Back, and you're gonna find out all about it!

First, start off with this video on "How to Make 2 Inch Round Buttons with Plastic Pinned Backs" courtesy of The Button Guy!

 HOW TO MAKE 2" BUTTONS WITH PLASTIC PINNED BACKS

Now that you know how a Standard 2" Button is Made, we'll fill you in on the mysterious black plastic backing!

THIRD PRESS OPERATION

When a button is made with a plastic backing, the edge of the button gets crimped at a 45 degree angle. For a pinback button, this 45 degree crimp will hold the button together no problem. The problem with this crimp becomes obvious if you try and mount that button on a plaque, scrap book, or card. It just doesn't lay flat!

The Standard 1", 2", and 6" Round Buttons can be subject to a "Third Press Operation" patented by Tecre. This simply means that the the button gets pressed one extra time in the the pick up die, which flattens the edge completely. The button, now with a flattened back, can be adhered to whatever you like using double sided sticky foam disks or other adhesives.

So now you know what's up the the plastic back! Yay 2 inch buttons :)

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Great Ideas: Collage Buttons! February 23 2017

Check out these beautiful buttons made by artist Sydney Rose!

Collage is Sydney's medium of choice for most of her art practice (Golden Encyclopedias from the 60's and 70's are her favourite source for images)

"As life gets more busy, I'm always looking at ways to hammer out ideas faster. I've also been looking for a way to produce small collages that can be distributed at a lower price point. The decision to get a button press was super random but it has been incredibly satisfying. It's so easy to produce collages quickly, without any adhesive. Like a sketch book."

We love the result!

See more of Sydney's stellar work at: www.sydneyrose.ca
and follow on Facebook: www.facebook.com/artsydneyrose

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Video: How to Make DIY Button Bracelet Charms February 20 2017

In a recent post, we featured Magnetic Button Bracelets with 1" Flatback Button Charms.

There are plenty of Charm Collections available for all of our magnetic jewelry, but it's so fun and satisfying to make a collection of your own!

Make charms with your initials, pics of your pet, or just a pretty design that you doodled. There's no wrong way to DIY your own button charms, but there's definitely a correct way to make them!

This How-To Video will help you make awesome charms for use with Single Charm Magnetic Button Bracelets and 5 Bezel Magnetic Button Bracelets :)

 

 

If you like the idea of DIY 1" Flatback Button Charms but would rather have us make them for ya, that's no problem at all!

Just give us a call at (416) 204-1984 or email info@peoplepowerpress.org for a quote :)

 

  

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Beautiful Magnetic Button Bracelets! February 15 2017

These Beautiful Magnetic Button Charm Bracelets would look great on you!

These magnetic buttons bracelets use Button Charms made with 1" round flat back buttons. Super nifty :)

Flatback buttons can be custom made by us, or you can make them yourself with a 1" round button maker and a kit for EVERYTHING for Standard 1" Flatback Buttons.

Button Charms are held inside the casings with strong magnets built right into the bracelet. This allows the wearer to change up the button charms as often as they like! :) 

These beautiful button bracelets come in 2 different styles. Pictured above is the One Charm Magnetic Button Bracelet, that holds one charm at a time. The magnetic bracelet base is paired with a leatherette bracelet band, and comes with a collection of 5 flatback button charms so you can mix and match to your hearts content!

The second style is the Five Bezel Magnetic Button Charm Bracelet. This bracelet is able to hold up to 5 button charms at once, and each bracelet comes with a whole collection of flatback button charms right off the bat.

For more information about our magnetic button bracelets, custom flatback buttons, or any other products we carry, feel free to get in touch!

Email us info@peoplepowerpress.org or give us a call at (416) 204-1984.

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Make Your Own Button Bottle Opener on a 2-1/4" Machine January 31 2017

There are lots of neat things that can be made on a Standard 2-1/4" Round Button Maker.

This How-To Video show you Step-By-Step How to Make Custom Button Bottle Openers on a Standard 2-1/4" Round Hand Press.

The instructions cover all types of bottle openers which include Metal Pocket Bottle Openers, Metal Keyring Bottle Openers, Black Pocket Bottle Openers, Black Keyring Bottle Openers, and Fridge Magnet Bottle Openers. Take a look!

To order parts for Button Bottle Openers, just go to the product page for Parts & Supplies for Standard 2-1/4" Button Makers. Click the dropdown menu entitled "what do you need?" and then pick your parts!

2-1/4" Button Bottle Opener Kits come with everything you need to make bottle openers (mylar, shell, bottle opener back, keyring, etc.) and are available in packs of 100, 500, and 1000 units.

We can make your Custom Button Bottle Openers too!

Get in touch with us at (416) 204-1984 or email us at info@peoplepowerpress.org for a quote!

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New Video: How to Make Magnetic Button Name Tags January 12 2017

We get lots of inquiries about how to make Magnetic Button Name Tags that you can wear without putting a hole through your clothing. They're a great pinback button alternative for formal events, work functions, or any situation where fancy clothes are required (because they don't put a hold through the fabric).

Here's a step-by-step video of how to make Magnetic Button Name Tags of your own using standard button parts and Rare Earth Magnets!

Below is a list of supplies you need to make a DIY Magnetic Name Tag of your own. You can make magnetic button name tags in any standard round button size ranging from 1" all the way up to 3-1/2".

What You Need to Make Magnetic Button Name Tags: - Button Hand Press (Standard Hand Press, Flex1000, Flex2000, or Flex3000 Machine) - Button Shell - Flat Back (instead of a pinned back) - 3mm Mylar - Button Artwork - Rare Earth Magnet

FLAT BACK BUTTON PARTS FOR MAGNETIC BUTTON NAME TAGS

Everything for Flat Back Buttons are available kits in the following standard round sizes: 1", 1-1/4", 1-1/2" 1-3/4", 2-1/4", 2-1/2", 3", and 3-1/2".

The "Everything for Flat Back Button" kit includes button shells, flat backs, and 3mm mylar. The Rare Earth Magnets are not included, but they are available here.

RARE EARTH MAGNETS FOR MAGNETIC BUTTON NAME TAGS

These Flat Back Buttons are easily turned into Magnetic Button Name Tags when paired with the strong but mighty Rare Earth Magnet :)

Rare Earth Magnets are available in four sizes: 1/4" Round, 1/2" Round, 3/4" Round, and 1" Round. All sizes of these Rare Earth Magnets measure 1/8" in depth.

*** PLEASE NOTE THAT RARE EARTH MAGNETS SHOULD NOT BE USED BY THOSE WHO USE A PACE MAKER. THEY ARE EXTREMELY STRONG ***

WE ALSO MAKE CUSTOM MAGNETIC BUTTON NAME TAGS

Don't have the time to make Magnetic Button Name Tags for your next event? Have us make them for you :)

If you would like to order Custom Magnetic Button Name Tags, please contact us a info@peoplepowerpress.org or give us a call at (416) 204-1984.

The Custom Magnets currently available on the site are Peel n' Stick Fridge Magnets, not Magnetic Button Name Tags, and CANNOT be worn on clothing.

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Keychains Two Ways: Learn how to make Split Ring and Snake Keychains with your Model 150 Button Maker January 10 2017

Button Keychains are practical, easy to make, and come in lots of different styles and sizes to suit any taste.

Button keychains allow you to take a special picture with you everywhere you go! You can rep your favorite band, show off the cutest picture EVER of your cat, oh the possibilities!

The videos below show you how to make a 1-1/2" Round Split Ring Keychain, as well as a 1-1/2" Round Snake Keychain. Both styles are pressed on a Model #150 Hand Press and use Standard 1-1/2" Round Parts.

Supplies used to make Split Ring Keychains on the Model #150 Button Maker: - Standard 1-1/2" Round Button Shell - Standard 1-1/2" Round Slot Back - Standard 1-1/2" Round Mylar (3mm)  - Split Ring with Tab - Button Artwork

You can find "EVERYTHING for Split Ring KEYCHAINS" kit in the drop down product menu when you click through the link. This kit includes the button shells, slot backs, 3mm mylar, and split rings with tabs (everything except the artwork). They are available in packs of 10, 25, 100, 500, and 1000 units.

Supplies used to make Snake Keychains on the Model #150 Button Maker: - Standard 1-1/2" Round Button Shell - Standard 1-1/2" Round Slot Back - Standard 1-1/2" Round Mylar (3mm) - Snake Keychain with Tab - Button Artwork

Keychains 101 - Part 2: Types of Keychains

 

 

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How-To: Design-Your-Own Bridal Shower Buttons September 26 2016

A perfect way to honour guests and attendants on your special day - and keep track of who's-who at a party for newcomers - beautiful Bridal Shower Buttons!

Buttons can be designed to match your wedding or party colours and make a great way to help break the ice!

You can Design Your Own buttons online on the Button Guy's Online Button Designer or using our downloadable templates!

Design-Your-Own Bridal Shower Buttons in Button Designer

Before you start you might want to familiarize yourself with Button Designer by watching this video tutorial - it will guide you through the basics of designing a button and help you with the following steps:

	1. Choose Your Artwork: Find a background and save it to your computer. I chose this one because it has a nice framing element that will showcase the name. A great place for free pattern and backgrounds is Public Domain Pictures
	2. Upload Your Artwork: Create a FREE account on the Button Guy Online Button Designer. Choose which size of button you'd like to make and upload your pattern.
	3. Design Your Button: Choose which lines of text you would like to be visible and pick a font and a font colour. Make sure it stands out against the background. (Tip: Change the background colour from the default Yellow to a colour that matches your uploaded artwork)
	4. Save Your Designs: Once you have finished adding a name click the [Save Button] Button, your design is now saved and you can change the text without uploading the background again. Repeat these steps until you have all your buttons - you can see them all in "Buttons Overview".
	5.Your Buttons Are Ready to Make! If you are making your own buttons at home you can follow the steps on Button Designer to print out your own artwork - or you can order custom buttons with your designs from us!

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Shoelace Buttons: Do-It-Yourself or Custom Made Just for You! August 02 2016

What's your favorite pair of shoes?

Whether it's a crisp new pair of summer sneakers, or that trusty pair that have been through thick and thin (and a puddle or two...), it's nice to show your shoes that they're appreciated.

The best way to say "thanks shoes," is to make them a button of their very own!

DO-IT-YOURSELF SHOELACE BUTTONS

These snazzy DIY Shoelace Buttons are sure to put a spring in your step :)

If you want to try your hand at this great DIY project, take a peek at the How-To Video below courtesy of The Button Guy!

The Shoelace Buttons come in a ton of different sizes and all of the parts you need to make your own can be found on our website!

WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN "FLAT" & "INDENTED" SHOE LACE BUTTONS?

"Flat" Sneaker Buttons have a smooth, flat back from which the "shoelace clip" protrudes. These are great if you and your buttons like to let loose and dangle and jangle about.

"Indented" Sneaker Buttons have a recessed back, so the clip sits deep into the button. This, in turn, pulls your shoelace tighter and keeps the button nice and snug. These are great if you and your buttons like a nice, orderly, approach to self expression.

CUSTOM MADE SHOELACE BUTTONS

If you like these Shoelace Buttons but DIY isn't really your thing, Custom Shoe Lace Buttons are available too! Just send us an image, or have our design team create something awesome just for you!

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Get Patio-Ready with DIY and Custom Coasters July 07 2016

Summer is here! And for us, that means sitting in the backyard and enjoying some sunshine with a lemonade in hand.

You can get patio-perfect too with some summer button coasters! All you need are the parts, a press and coaster die insert (also available with in-store rentals!) and a little bit of creativity to make the perfect summer craft!

This How-To video will guide you on your coaster-making journey:

DIY and Custom coasters are the perfect thing for guests to take home at weddings or family reunions. A set of coasters would make an amazing gift for a special occasion or housewarming! We even have customers who have small businesses selling the coasters they make at craft shows and markets!

If you make some coasters, buttons, or magnets that you think the world should see, post a picture on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram and tag us :) We love to show off the creations of our fellow buttoneers!

You can order custom coasters here!

Or supplies to make your own  with your 3.5" Button Machine

to make coasters with your 3.5" button machine you will also need a Coaster Die Insert.

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Introducing Make-A-Button at People Power Press June 27 2016

We've been working hard at turning our storefront into the best Maker Space it can be! Some of our favourite new additions to the shop is our Button Bar and Make-A-Button Punch Cards!

Now whether you want to Make-A-Button or rent a machine in-store, there is a great place for you to work on your button creations. Don't worry, the kids table is still around for all of our young button enthusiasts too!

Not sure how the whole Make-A-Button thing works? That's A-Okay! Sit back, relax, and enjoy the video: Introducing Make-A-Button at People Power Press :)

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Customer Profile on Flake: DIY Fabric Buttons and Magnets June 21 2016

We get a lot of inquiries about making buttons using fabric instead of paper. It's totally possible, super easy, and a great way to use up fabric scraps you have kicking around!

These is a past post on our button blog that has step by step instructions as well as tips on making your own fabric buttons. That blog post can be found through this link.

Flake Accessories by Jessica Epstein

Jessica Epstein, the super talented individual behind "Flake" uses pre-loved textiles to create custom magnets, buttons, and other accessories that are adorable AND sustainable :) Just take a look at these 1" magnets! SO COOL!

magnets like these can be made with 1" peel n' stick magnet parts. Instead of using artwork printed on paper, and finished with a sheet of mylar, BOTH are replace with a single piece of scrap fabric. Some fabrics work better than others. Find out the best fabric to use here!

Jessica also creates accessories like mittens and toques out of pre-loved fabric. The accessories below are made from old sweaters and polar fleece! She also gave the 1" lockpin button the royal treatment and elevated them into gorgeous accessories of their own!

These buttons are fully functional and can be worn on their own OR placed on a hand made one of a kind toque! These 1" fabric buttons by Flake are a great example of how far creativity can take you.

Thank you for sharing your wonderful (and successful) experiment with us Jessica!

Take a peek at all the great stuff Flake has to offer :) If you've taken a chance with a button making experiment and created something AWESOME we would love to see it! Get in touch with us at info@peoplepowerpress.org or tag us on social media (links below).

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