Buttons, Badges & Pins - People Power Blog
Shaolin Temple Pilots | Custom Band Buttons Toronto November 08 2018
High Park Martial Arts students who train together also ... jam together!
What began as a few people jamming at a Christmas Party a few years ago has now grown into a band named the Shaolin Temple Pilots. The band's members are all members of High Park Martial Arts and describe themselves as "a cover band with a Karate twist!"
It was a pleasure to make this group's custom 2" band buttons. This button size is a bit larger than the usual band button size (1-inch) for a bigger impact.
The band now perform at various venues and events in Toronto's Junction neighbourhood and beyond with a typical set consisting of The Clash, The Beatles and The Ramones, or Billy Idol, Billy Joel and Simple Minds, or Garbage, Elastica and Depeche Mode, or The Romantics, The Talking Heads and The Cars.
Check out their YouTube channel to get a sample of their fun live performance.
The Shaolin Temple Pilots can be hired for events so visit their Facebook page for more information about how to book them.
Read more »
Anti-Bullying Awareness Week Buttons and Stickers for Schools | Custom Buttons November 02 2018
Students have been back in class for almost two months now. Routines have been established and things probably feel a lot less new now.
Along with the homework and tests and routines comes another reality of school life: bullying. 
Kids can be mean. But every November students, schools and communities come together to increase bullying awareness and also agency in the face of bullying.
This year's theme is #ChooseKind, inspired by R. J. Palacio’s book “Wonder".
How to Use Button Making for Bullying Awareness Activities in Schools
Button making can play a part in bullying awareness efforts and already does for many of our schools who have button makers.
Based on discussions in class and ideas presented around the topic of bullying , kids can then get to work to create art and messages for their buttons.
Younger children can colour in anti-bullying designs you have already printed while older children can come up with their own images.
You can have kids create buttons that follow the theme of #choosekind or give them other prompts as needed.
If your school doesn't yet have a button maker, consider getting one of our two most popular Button Making School Kits:
2-1/4" Button Maker School Kit - this typical campaign button size is a larger size that is great for younger ages and events for all ages.
1-1/2" Button Maker School Kit - a smaller wearable button size suited for older students, especially high school students and digital designs.
If you do have a button maker, be sure you have enough supplies to fuel your all your button making!
Pre-Made or Custom Anti-Bullying Buttons and Stickers
We have also developed our own collection of anti-bullying buttons and stickers. Any or all of these designs can be purchased for schools to hand out to staff and students to wear from Nov. 18 - 24 and beyond.
Everyone wearing their pin is a great show of solidarity against bullying and help keep the conversations about bullying and being kind on everyone's mind.
You can also make your own anti-bullying design for us to make into buttons for your students. Add your school or school board logo too! You could even hold a contest among students with the winning designs being used for the final button design.
Stickers are also available as an alternative to pins. These can be added to planners or stuck on sweaters instead of a button with a sharp pin.
Share Your Anti-Bullying Button Designs with Us On Social Media!
We want to know how YOU are marking Bullying Awareness Week this year!
Please be sure to tag us in your posts so we can see your designs. We can even feature your great work online throughout the week. Also be sure to use #BAW2018 to be part of the larger conversation online during this week!
Read more »
Youth Resources Niagara | Custom Buttons Niagara October 22 2018
Just being a kid can be hard enough sometimes, but if you are a young person going through the legal system or Family and Children's Services it can be pretty challenging and even isolating if you don't have a support system.
In Ontario's Niagara region the organization Youth Resources Niagara is focused on helping youth in these situations so they don't have to go through this tough stuff alone.
We recently got to make these custom logo pins for YRN to help them promote the work they do in their community. It is the vision of YRN to support and empower youth in Niagara to not only face their challenges, but rise above them to be able to live a life that can be focused on reaching their full potential.
If you or someone you know could benefit from the services that YRN provides, please don't hesitate to reach out.
Where to Find Youth Resources Niagara
Website: www.yrn.ca
Twitter: @YouthResourcesN
Facebook: @YouthResourcesNiagara
Instagram: @staffyrn
Looking for Your Own Custom Buttons in Niagara Region?
If you are looking for custom buttons in the Niagara region, we offer fast turnaround and shipping so that you can get your buttons as fast as if we were local. Contact us today to get what you need!
Read more »
Our Ottawa Button Boutique is Now Open! | Custom Buttons Ottawa September 07 2018
We are growing! If you have been on our website or placed an order you may have noticed mention of an Ottawa Button Store location.
Well, it's true - the People Power Press Button Boutique is now open for gifts and crafts on Preston Street in Ottawa's Little Italy neighbourhood. And we are loving it.
The People Power Press Button Boutique - More Than Just Buttons
Many of the same things available in the Toronto store are also available in Ottawa. You can pick up supplies and custom button orders and rent machines. Ottawa customers can now save on shipping costs, yay! and Little Italy has a new craft store for hobbies, gifts and crafts like screen printing and block printing as well as a button shop.
Ottawa Themed Novelty Items and Souvenirs
You can also see many of the other products we now have in our Toronto store - buttons, mugs and stickers. We are also carrying a range of fun and unique products that are not all button related in both stores and you will see.
We also have a special collection of Ottawa themed novelty items and souvenirs that is always being expanded.
Ottawa Button Store Location and Hours
If you live in Ottawa or the National Capital Region and want to visit us, here is where we are:
People Power Boutique
169 Preston Street
"Little Italy"
Ottawa, ON K1R 7P6
Phone: 613-230 8484
Hours: Thursday Noon till 7pm, Friday 9-7pm, Saturday 9-4pm.
Please call to confirm we're open!
We are really thrilled with the response and welcome we've had so far Ottawa. And it has been so nice to finally meet some of our Ottawa customers who have been ordering with us online.
Read more »
Silhouettes Dance Company Gets Motivated University of Toronto Students a Place to Move | Custom Stickers Toronto September 04 2018
Well, it is back to school for some of us this week.
Starting university is a big commitment that sometimes means ending or putting on hold other hobbies or activities while picking up the responsibilities of a new school schedule.
There are a group of students at the University of Toronto who haven't wanted to give up their passion: dance. So they have created Silhouettes Dance Company, a performance-based company, to keep on dancing while also balancing their academic workload.
This student-run group gets dancers of a variety of genres together to bond and continue training, with an original year-end performance as the culmination of their efforts throughout the school year. The year-end show usually happens in March before Spring exams. They also perform at various events throughout the community.
The company is now getting ready for another great year of dance. They hold auditions in September be sure to follow them on social media for audition dates. So they had their logo put onto 1-inch custom stickers - and a 2-1/4" custom bottle opener! Who says you have to get custom buttons?
This dance company, being entirely student-run, is always looking for help to fund their work. Donations and sponsors are welcome. You can contact them directly to find out more!
See what the Silhouettes Dance Company is up to online:
Instagram: @silhouettesdance
YouTube: Silhouettes Dance Company Channel
Facebook: @silhouettesdancecompany
Read more »
Toronto Funny Guy Anesti Danelis Taking Fringe Show International / Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2018 August 24 2018
Toronto musical and sketch comedian Anesti Danelis is headed to the 2018 Endinburgh Fringe Festival this August with his successful fringe show Songs for a New Order.
The show debuted in Toronto at last year's Toronto Fringe Festival and even got its own run at The Second City comedy club. He also performed the show at the 2018 Montreal Fringe Festival in June.
He will be performing Aug 2 - 18 at the Scottish festival and is these 1-1/4" custom buttons will be making the trip with him. This popular and wearable button size is perfect for artists performing at fringe or other shows. Sell them at the show or hand them out to the audience to say thanks.
When not performing Songs for a New Order, Danelis can be seen in web shorts that he posts on Facebook and YouTube. You should also keep tabs on his Shows page to see where he will be performing next. He is a skilled improv artist, having trained with The Second City Toronto and Bad Dog Theatre Company and performs at various shows and comedy festivals regularly. He also has a comedy album in the works.
Find Danelis online in these places if you are looking for a good laugh:
YouTube: Anesti Danelis Channel
Website: www.anestidanelis.com
Facebook: @anestidanelis
Instagram: @anestidanelis
Read more »
Join Robot Field Tests this Summer with Bowie and Robot Missions | Custom Buttons Ottawa July 16 2018
Have you ever seen a robot in action? If you would like to while also helping the environment, you can head over to Ottawa's Westboro Beach to take part in a great citizen science project. Robot Missions will be running Field Tests throughout the summer with Bowie the Robot to clean up the beach.
All members of the community and visitors to the area are invited to participate. No experience is needed. This is also a great introduction for children to see robots in action in a very purposeful way.
We love making more custom 1-1/2" round buttons and custom 1-1/2" square buttons that feature Bowie the Robot and the Catalyst Pod to mark another set of Field Tests.
Robot Missions is the brainchild of inventor Erin Kennedy who wanted to use robots to create a social impact. The vision is for the robots (there multiple Bowies that have been made) to work autonomously to identify and clear debris from beaches and other areas. The robots have been made mostly with a 3D printer.
To date 250 people have participated in Robot Missions Field Tests and robots have collected 3.1 kilograms of debris.
These robots would give parks an automated way to clean parks with very little cost, while also accessing difficult areas of the park.
Current Field Test dates are in July and August. Sign up for one of the Field Test dates to take part in this great activity for all ages.
If you aren't in Ottawa this summer, you should still head over to the Robot Missions website or follow along on social media to see these robots in action and learn more about what Kennedy and partners are up to. You can see footage from the field tests and see what kind of debris they have picked up.
Such cool stuff!
Twitter: @RobotMissions or @RobotGrrl
Facebook: @RobotMissions
Website: www.robotmissions.org
Read more »
Laugh with Comedian Anjali Sandhu at the Winnipeg Fringe Festival | Custom Buttons Winnipeg July 13 2018
Comedian Anjali Sandhu wants to make it clear: she is not Taylor Swift.
But one thing is for sure, she is very funny and you can experience her humour firsthand at her upcoming 2018 Winnipeg Fringe Festival show "I'm Not Taylor Swift."
Sandhu is in her early twenties, but she has been doing standup since 2011 when she was just a teenager. "I'm Not Taylor Swift" is a 30-minute solo show that has 8 showings throughout the festival that runs July 18-29.
We got to make these fun custom 1-3/4" buttons to support her show.
You can find more info and get your tickets here.
Get the whole Winnipeg Fringe Festival lineup here.
If you are not in Winnipeg or can't see her show at the festival, follow her online to experience some of her funny and see where she will be next:
Instagram: @anjaliXIII
Facebook: @AnjaliComedy
Twitter: @anjaliXIII
Read more »
Catapult Brewing Company July 09 2018
Is it just us or is beer synonymous with summer for you too?
Toronto has given rise to a number of great local breweries in recent years, but we are really excited to support one of the newest - Catapult Brewing.
Founded by wife and husband team Sherry Lin and John Thompson, Catapult is making its rounds through the city this summer after officially launching in the Spring.
The first beer on tap from Catapult is an American Pale Ale and they have just introduced a Kolsch-style Lagered Ale. Thirsty yet?
We have been making custom promotional pins for Catapult since the Spring and are just thrilled to be working this great local company with a great product. We wish them loads of success as they continue to be discovered and to expand.
You can find Catapult beer at local Toronto restaurants and festivals in and around the city for now, but they are growing so watch for updates about where to find this great new beer on their social media pages or sign up through their website to get the latest updates in your inbox.
Instagram: @catapultbrewing
Facebook: @Catapultbrewing
Website: www.catapultbrewing.com
Read more »
Victoria Lesbian Seniors Care Society July 05 2018
Pride events are continuing this summer across the country and our friends at the Victoria Lesbian Seniors Care Society (VLSCS) are going to be busy this July taking part in various Pride events across Vancouver Island.
Along with these bright 2.25" logo buttons, members from VLSCS will be at the Esquimalt Farmer's Market on July 5th and then will be at the Nanaimo, BC Pride Picnic on July 8th.
The group's tagline is "Amazing women doing amazing things!" and we'd have to agree. It is their mission to support the health and social needs of lesbians as they age. This work is meant to help ensure safe and accessible spaces for building community and enabling social interaction through social action and public education
If you would like to work with VLSCS, or find out more about the work they do - and stay on top of their full calendar of events - please do head over to their vibrant website.
You can also email them directly at hello@amazingwomen.ca.
Read more »
Trade Tariff Troubles: #BoycottUSA Buttons #BuyCanadian July 04 2018
Whether you’re for or against the movement, you’ve probably heard about the Canadian boycott on American goods in light of a Trump-Trudeau trade tariff scuffle.
Things took a turn for the worst at the G7 summit when Trump criticized Trudeau's comments for being “dishonest” and “weak.” The icing on the cake was when White House National Trade Council Director Peter Navarro said there was a “special place in hell” for our Prime Minister.
Hashtags have been popping up on social media too, urging Canadians to #BoycottUSProducts and #BuyCanadain. It definitely makes sense to “vote with your pocketbook,” but as a nation that has imported almost $100 Billion USD in 2018 alone, is a boycott really in the best interest of our country?
Some say yes, and have sworn off imports like Florida oranges and wine from California. Even daily staples like a Starbucks coffee is off the menu in favor of Canadian alternatives (Timmies anyone?).
This great article written by Maclean’s has a list of common American-made products and their accessible domestic alternatives.
Others believe that boycotting American products could be detrimental to the well- being of both Canada and the United States. Historically speaking, countries prosper when trade is flourishing, and history knows best, right?
The situation gets even more precarious because most American farmers are AGAINST the proposed tariffs and are all for the North American Free Trade Agreement.
Are you partaking in the USA Boycott? If so, what kind of changes are you making to #BuyCanadian?
For the full story with all the details, check out this article by The Globe and Mail.
Read more »
Up The Bloc Indoor Rock Climbing Destination | Custom Buttons Mississauga June 25 2018
If you have ever done rock climbing or are thinking of trying it out, you want to check out Up The Bloc, an amazing indoor rock climbing space in Mississauga, just west of Toronto. It is an awesome experience with a 11,000 square foot facility that contains over 5,000 square feet of climbing space.
It has something for beginners, experts and everyone in between:
- 8 bouldering curcuits
- 120 + problems to keep you busy
What is really cool about this space is that Up The Bloc has been designed to be a community. You can sign up to be a member, they have a training area, a coffee/juice bar and wifi so you have space to hang out. There are events and they have a ton of great Up The Bloc merchandise.
Which leads us to the latest custom 1.25" buttons we made for them. We love the colourful design so much and hope you do too. From the space down to these pins, the folks at Up The Bloc know great design and we are big fans.
Check them out to see what we mean:
Website: www.upthebloc.com
Facebook: @upthebloc
Instagram: @up_the_bloc
YouTube Channel: youtube.com/upthebloc
Read more »
Positive Space Network | Custom Buttons Halton Region June 20 2018
Pride Month is underway, which is a great time for celebration, but it is so crucial for LGBTQ+ youth, individuals and families to feel welcome and supported in our communities all year round.
In Halton Region it is the mission of the Positive Space Network to realize this fully by working to support inclusive communities in Burlington, Oakville, Milton, Acton and Georgetown. They provide a range of programming and training for the diverse population of Halton Region.
We got to make these sweet 1" logo pins featuring the new PSN logo just in time for Halton Pride events across the region. If you are out at any Pride events in the area, be sure to track down the folks at PSN and find out more about their important work. Snag a pin if you can too!
Want to find out more about PSN now? You can find them online in these places:
Website: www.positivespacenetwork.ca
Facebook: @PositiveSpaceNetworkCA
Instagram: @psn.halton
You can also reach out to them directly at psnyouth@rockonline.ca or are in crisis you can call their 24 Hour Crisis Support Line 905-878-9785.
And if you are thinking custom pins for Pride, it is not too late to place your order! We can make custom logo pins for you with your own design or you can choose from our new LGBTQ+ Collection, We have no order minimums and super fast turnarounds to get you your pins in time for your event. Reach out to us today for more information!
Read more »
We Wholesale Custom Buttons! We Wholesale Fun! June 18 2018
It's great when you have a serious business but you know your business is a lot of fun and button making and custom buttons are fun and we find ourselves wholesaling fun on an ever increasing scale.
There is nothing like walking into a school building or event carrying a couple of button makers and you hear a ground swell of noise rising as kids see the button makers and get excited.
Buttons are serious business for a lot of our customers so we really do wholesale fun.
Read more »
#RefugeesBelong Pins to March for World Refugee Day on June 20 June 18 2018
According to the United Nations, 20 people leave their home and everything they know every single minute. They are escaping war, terror and persecution.
June 20 is World Refugee Day, when the focus is turned to those people who have fled their homes and their countries out of fear.
It is a day to show support for refugees and their families; to recognize their strength, courage and perseverance.
It is also a day to take a stand for the work being done to support refugees and what still needs to be done.
There are marches and events happening in cities and communities all over the world.
Here in Toronto there will be a march hosted by Amnesty International and other local organizations that work to support refugees. It begins at 9:30 in Dundas Square (downtown Toronto intersection of Yonge and Dundas) and will be a walk through the community stopping at 6 community organizations along the way. The walk will end in Regent Park with a lunch happening from 12-2pm. Anyone looking to participate can attend any or all of the event. Contact info for the event can be found here.
These custom campaign pins featuring #RefugeesBelong will be part of the event. 2.25" round buttons are a great size and shape for community marches and walks.
You can also learn more about World Refugee Day 2018 and find resources on the United Nations website.
"This not about sharing a burden. It is about sharing a global responsibility, based not only the broad idea of our common humanity but also on the very specific obligations of international law. The root problems are war and hatred, not people who flee; refugees are among the first victims of terrorism." — UN Secretary-General, António Guterres
Read more »
First Aid and CPR-Certified Buttons to Get Your Medical Message Across Clearly June 13 2018
So does everyone know who has CPR training in your school, business or office? Where is the First Aid kit located? Is it easy to find? Are you traveling with medical equipment and need an easy way to identify it when going through an airport?
Custom medical buttons and magnets can be super useful communication tools in the workplace and various public spaces. Medical buttons and magnets help to easily and clearly communicate important information to people.
For example, if you have staff that works with the public, you can ask staff members who have CPR training to wear a CPR-certified pin so that everyone can easily access help if in distress.
You can also have First Aid buttons and magnets visible so employees and the public can access first aid tools quickly. First Aid magnets can be stuck onto cabinets or other magnetic surfaces to make very clear where the First Aid kit and/or supplies are located.
These custom pins, if designed with clear designs and images can even help those who may not speak the official language or are non-verbal to get help from the right place.
You can choose from one of our pre-made designs or we can come up with a custom design that works for you to get your medical message across. We recommend a larger mid-size button or magnet like the 2-1/4" size shown here so the message stands out clearly. This is not a job for a small button size.
Read more »
Exciting Music - and Custom Buttons - from Toronto Singer-Songwriter Poesy June 06 2018
Poesy is an exciting Canadian artist you want to check out if you haven't yet.
The name is familiar if you watched the first season of CTV's The Launch. She was the winning singer on her episode of the singing competition show that featured Shania Twain, Alessia Cara, Fergie, Boy George, Ryan Tedder of OneRepublic, and Nikki Sixx of Motley Crue as mentors.
Her hit song that was launched on the show, Soldier of Love, was also played on the hit TV drama This is Us.
We made these custom 1.25" artist buttons for her. She has a unique sound that is ethereal and edgy at the same time. The airy illustrations on the buttons do seem to capture her sound.
While she is working on new music, she is still performing. Toronto and Hamilton peeps she has shows coming your way in June! She is performing with a lineup of great bands at the Horseshoe Tavern on June 23rd and in Hamilton on June 30th at Mills Hardware.
And you can follow along with her journey online. She has a great Wednesday Vinyl feature.
Official Website: www.poesyofficial.com
Twitter: @poesyofficial
Facebook: @poesyofficial
Instagram: @poesyofficial
YouTube: Poesy Official Channel
Read more »
Somewhere Over the Rainbow ... Are These Dance Recital Buttons for the Swansea School Of Dance May 31 2018
"I would dance and be merry, life would be a ding-a-derry if I only had a brain."
There will lots of merry dancing when the Swansea School of Dance presents "Follow The Yellow Brick Road" as their annual recital on June 1st and 2nd. There are 3 performances to choose from - Friday evening, Saturday afternoon and Saturday evening. All shows will be at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre at the CNE Grounds.
Based on the beloved Wizard of Oz, the show is the result of months of hard work and preparation by all of the dancers at the Swansea School of Dance. We had the pleasure of making these fun custom 1.25" pins for the show. They feature Dorothy and friends as they embark on their magical adventure on the Yellow Brick Road and the dance recital will bring that magical adventure to life!
The school is based in Toronto's Bloor West Village neighbourhood and offers dance programming to all levels and ages of dancers from 2 years old to adults.
You can dance your way over to their website to learn about what programs they offer to boys and girls. They teach a range of dance genres including Classical Ballet, Jazz, Hip Hop, Tap, Creative Movement and Modern Dance. Dancers of all ages and abilities are encouraged to learn the technical aspects of dance in a non-competitive environment to build their confidence and explore their own creative expression.
If you are a parent or caregiver and live in and around Toronto's Bloor West Village, this may be the perfect place for your kids to learn to dance and express themselves.
Contact us if you'd like to make buttons for an upcoming event like a dance recital or concert. Buttons make great, affordable souvenirs.
Read more »
Small Logo Buttons to Support Community Radio Station CJRU (Ryerson) | Custom Buttons Toronto May 29 2018
We need good sounds around the button shop to keep us going. We have varied tastes around here, so you can find us listening all kinds of music, podcasts and ...community radio!
So we can honestly say we appreciate the work of community radio stations like Ryerson University's CJRU The Scope. And streaming means so many great community stations are available online so the choices are unlimited. You can check them out wherever you are in the world! (Dooooo it!)
The Scope is a way to connect the campus community at Toronto's Ryerson University, but just a quick look at programming you will see something for everyone, even if you aren't part of Ryerson. Take a listen and you will see what we mean!
The folks at CJRU often show up at events around Toronto so you may see these custom 7/8" logo pins around. There are two great designs and both are perfect examples of what to put on a teeny tiny 7/8" button. There isn't much space, but this super wearable size are a good choice for logo pins that listeners can leave on a coat or bag to show their support. This 7/8" size is the smallest custom button size around and we love it.
We also recently made these custom 7/8" logo pins that popped too with a great and simple design.
Want your own small logo pins to give your supporters? Get in touch and we will get you what you need!
If you would like to find out more about CJRU The Scope, you can find them in all these places:
Website: www.cjru.ca
Twitter: @CJRU1280
Facebook: @ScopeatRyerson
Instagram: @CJRU1280
If you are looking for a change in your usual listening, we highly recommend checking out their shows!
Read more »
6 Ways Buttons Can Make the Perfect Summer Camp (or Camp Themed) Souvenir! May 24 2018
What says summer like summer camp?
Around here we know Summer is around the corner when we start making custom buttons for summer camps.
1. Custom Camper Buttons Personalized for Each Camper
We make camper buttons for a number of camps each year. Each custom buttons is personalized to include each camper's name and year.
The camp pins can also be printed on coloured paper to identify different groups of campers and staff.
One of our awesome customers is Forest Cliff Camp in London, Ontario area. They make a variety of buttons that are coloured for different years, but also make buttons for campers as awards for things like kindness and friendship.
2. Get a Button Maker to Make Your Own Camp Buttons
Some of our camp customers also like to do the button making themselves and incorporate button making into their camp activities with the kids. Get your own button maker start-up kit and supplies to make buttons all summer long!
Forest Cliff Camp has a 2-1/4" button maker to make buttons that their campers love. They have a few different types of buttons they make:
"[Our] happy camper buttons are given to each camper at the end of the week in our graduation ceremony for overnight summer camp", says day camp director John Burkholder. "The award buttons are given to each camper at our day camp, at the end of the week and they are recognized in our closing ceremony with all the parents."
They also ordered pre-cut circles (see pictured) with their designs to make button making a breeze.
3. Button Making for Hands On Learning
If you are in the Toronto area, you can even hire our Events Team to come and show the campers how to make buttons. We bring all the supplies and machines you need, including custom artwork if necessary.
Want to just have the kids make buttons? That's easy. Or we will work with you to make a tailored button making workshop that ties in what campers are learning about. This is a great activity for day camps and summer programs in the city. Contact us with your event ideas and we'll talk with you about options.
4. Camp Themed Wedding Favours and Decor
Are you a couple who met at summer camp and are now getting married? Or are you a couple that is holding your wedding at a summer camp site? Have fun and include camp themed wedding favours for your special day. This can be done as table settings or place settings that include the camp's logo along with the table number or guests name.
Buttons can be made without the pin for a flat back that can be attached to another surface easily or with a magnet that the guest can then take home as a souvenir. So many options! Just get in touch with our awesome customer service folks to find out more.
5. Nostalgic Camp Buttons for Reunions
Consider having camper buttons for your camp reunion, big or small. Seeing the old camp logo on a button will instantly bring back all those summer camp memories.
Super simple and affordable, but personal, nostalgic camp buttons make fantastic and fun camp reunion souvenirs.
6. Custom Camp Buttons for Donors and Fundraising
If part of your camp's fundraising efforts includes holding a special event like a golf tournament or gala dinner, consider making camper buttons for donors.
Custom camp buttons provide a simple, inexpensive way to thank your donor in a personalized way while also staying on theme. As a donor they get to be honorary campers!
Read more »
Through Ruff Times: How One Toronto Group is Helping Folks and Their Pets Stay Together May 18 2018
Read more »
LGBTQ+ Pride Button Series - Made to Order Buttons May 16 2018
Every year Pride events across the country bring together the LGBTQ community and its allies to celebrate, and those celebrations continue to grow.
We make a lot of custom buttons for Pride events across North America and are now happy to introduce our very own LGBTQ+ Rights Button Series.
These pin designs are the latest installment in our growing People Power Press Social Justice Merchandise Collection. To date this collection of social justice merch also includes designs to support Women's Empowerment and Anti-Racism.
These pins are available in 6 different designs in 2 sizes with 2 different coloured backgrounds to choose from. They are available in 1-1/4" Blue and 1-1/4" White or 2-1/4" Blue and 2-1/4" White.
While larger cities may have better established Pride organizations, we understand that smaller communities and groups may be operating with smaller teams and budgets or just getting off the ground. These new designs can made to order to support Pride festivities in your communities. So you can resell the designs as a fundraiser or just hand them out as giveaways. We can also add your logo or organizations website to these designs to make them yours and direct others to find out more about you!
We've made things easy by creating a number of designs you can use to make buttons, stickers or any other custom product we make and we are one of the few high production button shops that have no order minimum so you can order as many or as few buttons as you'd like.
These buttons can be purchased as an individual wanting to show their support and express themselves or can be ordered in larger quantities to be used by organizations at Pride events or throughout the year. Use them as part of your fundraising efforts or just hand them out at your events or to employees in the workplace to promote LGBTQ+ rights.
Please contact us today about how these buttons can support LGBTQ+ rights in your communities and share the message of love. And we will also, of course, make Pride buttons with your own custom design.
Read more »
Buttons are in Bloom for Parkdale Queen West Community Health Centre and Spring into Parkdale Event May 11 2018
One of the best things about Spring in the city is all the great neighbourhood festivals that start happening to see new parts of the city and interact with members of the community.
Parkdale Queen West Community Health Centre is one fantastic community group that will be out for the Spring into Parkdale Sidewalk Festival & Night Market happening in Toronto's awesome west end 'hood on May 12th. Some have called this the best annual event in Parkdale, if you are looking for something to do in Toronto.
The Parkdale Queen West CHC is going to be set up with a booth - and these custom 2-1/2" buttons - outside the Parkdale Library on Cowan Avenue.
h is an intergral part of the Parkdale community offering various services including primary health care, dental care, harm reduction, health promotion, counselling, and community development programming. They operate throughout the community and at three main clinic locations serving members of the south-west Toronto service area that does extend beyond Parkdale.
Buttons are a great idea for festivals and other community events like this one. They help identify vendors, can be given away as inexpensive giveaways and sold as a simple yet effective fundraiser. A button maker at your booth also is a fun way to draw people to your booth.
Read more »
Souvenir Pins for PhotoEd Magazine’s Educators Photography Field Trip May 10 2018
If you’ve been reading this blog you know how we feel about using buttons and button making in education. We love when educators can use a variety of tools to expand learning in the classroom and find ways to take that learning out of the classroom.
So we are digging PhotoED Magazine’s recent exclusive field trip for photography teachers and other educators looking to use photography students including community arts program directors, youth leaders and mentors. The May 6 event introduced a variety of tools and resources for educators to use photography with students.
We made these sweet little buttons for PhotoED to give out as a custom souvenirs to all the participants. These are custom 7/8" buttons, the smallest button available, which are great for souvenirs because they are super wearable. People are more likely to pin these to a bag or jacket and not take them off.
Taking place in Toronto, the event included learning how to lead a photo walk with Project Kids and Cameras, learning about products from FujiFilm and Flixel, a tour of various Toronto galleries and more!
If you are an educator in the Toronto-area, you can find out more about the awesome day here. Make sure you get on the list to be part of the next event.
If you aren’t an educator or in Toronto, but want to take in some amazing photography, be sure to check out PhotoED magazine. Following them on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter will fill your feeds with some remarkable photography.
Read more »
Usher in Spring with Sakura Flowers Button Cards Just in Time for Cherry Blossom Season! May 07 2018
It seems Spring is finally here. (No more ice storms in April, okay?)
To celebrate the coming of Spring we have created these pretty little Sakura Flowers Spring Button Cards.
These button cards are blooming just ahead of the real Cherry Blossom season in Toronto's High Park, which is near our retail shop. If you are in the store to pick up buttons, do see if you can book some extra time make a trip to see the flowering trees in all their glory.
Each card carries an uplifting message (there are 2 messages to choose from) and includes a 1-1/2" pinback button with a delightful cherry blossom pattern.
Choose from one of two messages:
"No Winter Lasts Forever, No Spring Skips Its Turn"
"Just Like Spring, You Bring Love and Joy to Everything"
These button cards are great for any season though as their sweet messages can serve as little pick-me-ups whatever the weather!
Check out the rest of our Button Greeting Card Collection!
And if you are in Toronto or planning a visit soon, be sure to check out High Park's Cherry Blossoms. Sure they will start flooding your Instagram feed, but always so much better in person! You can even check the status of the flowering trees on this handy website!
Happy Spring!!
Read more »
Nashville's Hot Chicken (and These Custom Stickers) to Take Over Toronto's Junction with Chica's Chicken Grand Opening! May 04 2018
We are pretty pumped to have a new neighbour and a new spot to send our folks looking for a good place to eat after picking up their button supplies and custom button orders at our Toronto retail location.
Chica's Chicken is serving up Nashville's hot fried chicken in Toronto's west end Junction neighbourhood and it looks good. Really good.
The grand opening is May 4th and it looks like we aren't the only ones excited. blogTO has said they are one of Toronto's most anticipated restaurant openings this Spring.
And if get a chance to get your hands on some Chica's Chicken, you may see the custom stickers we made for them with their logo. Didn't know we did stickers? Oh we do and they are great for restaurants looking for simple and inexpensive ways to brand their packaging.
You can check out Chica's Chicken - and start drooling - on Instagram and Facebook.
Welcome to the neighbourhood!
Read more »
Buttons for #REDforED Movement to Support Arizona Teachers Standing Up for Education May 03 2018
Teachers in Arizona are making headlines right now for walking off the job as part of the #REDforED movement. At publishing of this blog, they have been off the job for 6 days.
We got to make these custom 1" buttons to support Arizona Educators United as educators and other citizens across the state take action to see real change in how the state funds education and how teachers are paid.
Among some of the facts for those of us who didn't know:
- Arizona teachers are among the lowest paid in the entire country.
- Over $1 Billion has been cut from the education budget since the recession in 2008.
- Over 2000 teaching positions are unfilled.
If you would like to learn more about the #REDforED watch the video below. You can also visit the Arizona Educators United website for more resources and get clear steps for action. Arizona Educators United is a coalition of teachers, educational support workers, administrators and any else who cares about the state of education in Arizona.
You can show them your support and contact your government officials to make sure they know how you feel. Follow for updates on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Not in Arizona? Then use their action to support your own action to stand for educators in your community and support quality education for your community's children.
Wearing buttons has long been a way to show support for various causes. This #REDforED button provides a great example of a protest button design. Combining an old tried and true medium like buttons with the modern hashtag and bright colour, the message is clear and accessible for others to understand and share.
If you are considering custom buttons as part of your toolkit of your cause or movement, please reach out to us to discuss what custom button options are available to you.
Read more »
Riders Against Hunger in Support of Mississauga's Eden Food for Change May 02 2018
When our communities are all fed and everyone has access to not just nutritious food, but the skills and resources to learn and prepare nutritious food the entire community benefits.
Mississauga's Eden Food for Change has been committed to "Good Food for All" since 1989. Their approach goes above and beyond a food bank model to see good food as being central to the success of every member of the community.
If you are a part of this community or just want to support the great work that Eden Food for Change is doing - while having a really great time - you should consider taking part in the latest Riders Against Hunger event that is happening this August.
This annual event is a poker style ride that sees riders participate in a 3-4 hour ride to visit various designated stops along a scenic route. We made these Warhol-esque 1.75" x 2.75" Custom Rectangle Pins for this year's event.
At each stop you will collect a card to make up a poker hand by the end of the ride. Prizes will be available for the best hand. There will be a grand draw too and the top three fundraisers will also be rewarded with prizes.
And there will definitely be food at this event. The day starts with breakfast before the ride and ends with a lunch prepared by Eden's very own chef!
Entry to participate is only $35 (which is waived if you fund-raise $35 or more). Registration and fundraising is happening now so get in on the action. You will have a great day and can feel good knowing you are riding to support such an important cause.
To register or find out more, you can contact Bill Crawford at bill@ridersagainsthunger.org or call 416-318-4100. If you don't ride, you can still support the event and Eden Food for Change.
You can also follow along on Facebook to or Twitter see what you can expect at the event and how you can be part of such an incredible community event!
How Buttons and Button Making Can be Part of Your Community Event!
If you are hosting a charity event like a run, walk or a charity motorcycle ride like this one, consider including custom buttons. They are inexpensive souvenirs to give to all participants, fundraisers and volunteers. A variety of shapes and sizes are available. You can also consider going pinless to give out custom keychains, rosettes and sneaker clips.
You could even run a button making booth during the run for anyone to have fun even if they aren't participating in the run! Contact us about how buttons can be part of your event!
Read more »
#TorontoStrong April 27 2018
It was a sunny Toronto afternoon on April 23rd when a van attack killed 10 and left 15 people injured.
This was the first attack of this kind in Toronto and left many in the city shocked.
In the wake of these horrendous events came a beautiful initiative put on by the Toronto Foundation, called the #TorontoStrong Fund, which will be used to support victims, their families, and first responders who were impacted by the incident.
Click here to learn more, or to make a contribution to the #TorontoStrong Fund.
The City of Toronto will be hosting a Vigil for the victims of the Toronto Van Attack at Mel Lastman Square this Sunday April 29th at 7pm. Remember that together we are #TorontoStrong.
Read more »
Custom Buttons for Squeezings, A Halifax Comic Series April 24 2018
We'd like to introduce you to Boo. Boo is the comic creation of Halifax artist Angi Garofolo and is part of the fun comic series Squeezings.
We have been following the adventures of Boo the snake, their human and a cast of fun characters when we made some custom 1.5" buttons featuring Boo and the others.
You can see all of the Squeezings comic action online here.
You can also stay up-to-date on social media:
Instagram: @squeezingsComix
Twitter: @squeezingsComix
Facebook: @squeezings
Are you looking for custom buttons in Halifax? Are you a comic artist looking to put your designs on buttons? Get high quality buttons with fast turnaround with the friend staff at People Power Press. Contact us today to chat with us about what you need!
Read more »
Cross Country Comic Con Buttons: Pins for Calgary Comic Expo and Northern Gaming Expo April 23 2018
Buttons at Comic Expos are popular and we are always keen to see the drawings of artists who come through the shop to make their buttons with us.
There are two shows coming up this spring in two different parts of Canada, so we’d like to feature an artist attending each show in hopes that you can get out to a show if you are nearby and support talented artists like these two.
Mackenzie Wagner is a self-taught artist from Calgary who will be attending the Calgary Comic Expo that takes place April 26 – 29. There is a good line-up of celebrities on the schedule too! From Jason Mamoa and Meghan Follows to Chris Jericho, Christopher Lloyd and more!
She works under the name boredlydoodling and more of her work can be found on www.boredlydoodling.com, on Instagram and through her YouTube channel. You will be able to find her and her fantastic pins in Artist Alley.
Danielle Leger is a Sudbury-based comic artist who will be attending the Northern Gaming Expo http://northerngameexpo.com/ at Sudbury’s Cambrian College on April 29th.
Her 1-1/2” Custom Round Buttons feature the characters from the game Overwatch by Blizzard.
Follow Leger to see what she is creating on Tumblr and Twitter.
Both artists also accept commissions if you like their style and would like them to create something for you.
Need Buttons for a Comic Convention Near You?
If you are a comic artist attending a comic convention - or are any other kind of artist attending a show - and would like an accessible and affordable way to sell your art, let us know. We can handle small or large custom buttons orders that can be made quickly and shipped out to wherever you are.
Here is another example of a visual artist who made square buttons for Toronto Comicon.
Read more »
Celebrating Our Favourite Moments in Text on World Book and Copyright Day April 20 2018
Words on the page have the power to take us out of our daily lives and into other fantastic worlds. Other media can excite us too, but books hold a special place here for us and maybe you too.
In honour of World Book and Copyright Day and the corresponding Canada Book Day, both taking place on April 23, we have put some of our favourite book moments onto buttons.
Seeing them again instantly brings the magic of the entire story back. Can you tell what books the passages on the buttons are from? Head over to our Instagram and Facebook pages to leave your guesses. The first to comment with the correct answer gets the button!
We'd also really like to know what you are reading right now! We are always looking for recommendations. Some of our button makers love a good audiobook to keep them company as they press custom button orders!
And of course, if you have a favourite passage from a favourite book, why don't you put it on a button or other custom product like a fridge magnet, coaster, mirror or keychain? So many page-turning possibilities. We'd be happy to help!
Read more »
DIY Inspiration: Fine Gentleman Upcycled Vintage Collage Fridge Magnets April 17 2018
Collaged from vintage advertisements, these Fine Gentlemen Fridge Magnets are not only handsome, but practical too!
Hand pressed on a 2" x 3" Rectangle button maker, these magnets will effortlessly hold up to 5 pieces of paper on your fridge, locker, or magnetic surface of your choosing.
You can get your hands on this magnet collection in store, or let them inspire you to make some collage magnets of your own!
Some tips for collaging on buttons or magnets:
- Don't collage heavily around the edges because it can interfere with successfully pressing the magnet on a hand press
- Use printer paper or similarly weighted paper for your magnets, as thicker papers tends to get jammed (especially if you're layering!)
- Let glue or other adhesives dry completely before pressing
- Have fun and happy making!
If you love to collage, here's another post that you might enjoy:
- Great Ideas: Collage Buttons!
- How to Avoid Button Maker Jams
- 1" Buttons with Colourful Custom Collages: Sales the Band
Read more »
Introducing Pawsome and Purrfect Postcard & Button Craft Packs April 10 2018
If you are a lover of dogs or cats and love a good pun, we have made a new craft project pack that might just be your thing.
The Pawsome Pack and Purrfect Pack include postcards for you to colour along with matching punny animal pins. These have adorable positive messages so the idea is that you can send someone a fun and positive message if they need a pick-me-up or just because you were thinking of them.
This is a great kid's craft project to keep little hands busy while also practicing kindness for others.
Messages include "Stay Pawsitive!" and "I am Totally Pawsome!" Kind of adorable, right?
These new DIY craft packs are available in store at our Toronto location in the Junction neighbourhood or can be purchased online. Included are 2 x 2-1/4" round buttons and 2 x Colouring Postcards. Choose from the cat version or the dog version.
So go ahead, let someone in your life know just how pawsome they are, even when times are ruff! Okay, we are done being (hilariously) punny now...!
But... if you really are digging the animal puns, we do have a few more animal pun buttons this way.
Read more »
Get Your Paws on these Animal Pun Pins! April 09 2018
Whale Hello There!
If you could be any animal in the world, what would you be? Whatever it is, I'm sure its TOADally rad :)
This hilarious pinback button collection features a slew of animals and terrible animal puns that we hope you'll love!
You can get your paws on these pins by dropping by our storefront in The Junction, or get in touch with us and order online or over the phone :)
If you've thought up of a laughter-inducing pun, why not get your own run of custom pun buttons? Click here to order custom buttons of every size and shape!
Read more »
Pins for Toronto Horror Web Series Winterbourne April 06 2018
If you are looking for something to really good to watch that may also keep you up at night, you should stay tuned for the upcoming horror web series Winterbourne.
The horror web anthology consists of nine episodes inspired by Robert W. Chambers' The King in Yellow. Taking place in the town of Winterbourne, the series follows the supernatural experiences of the community's residents.
A special premiere will be held on April 12th at Toronto's Carlton Cinema.
If you can't wait for the series to start - like us - then you can check out some 360-degree short videos on the Winterbourne YouTube channel. Check out the teaser video below for just a hint of what the series will include.
Winterbourne is created by Stained Glass Media, an all-female production company dedicated to creating diverse and accessible high quality entertainment. The nine women behind this terrifying series are fourth year Media Production Studies program from Toronto's Ryerson University.
You can also get a great look behind the scenes by following along on social media. (Don't be fooled by all those smiling faces - this stuff is seriously spooky!)
Twitter: @Winterbourne_18
Facebook: @winterbourne2018
Instagram: @winterbourne2018
YouTube: Winterbourne: A Horror Anthology Series
This project has also included the production of some virtual reality episodes that fully immersed viewers in the Winterbourne experience.
We made some custom round 1-1/2" buttons featuring the series logo. Some of these buttons will be sent out to supporters of Winterbourne, including people who helped fund their successful indiegogo campaign.
We are seriously thrilled to have come across this series and the team behind it. If you will be watching along with us, be sure to let us know what you think and share it with anyone else who wants to see what the future of Canadian media looks like.
Read more »
Poisson D'Avril .... April Fools Day! April 01 2018
Here's a wacky April Fool's Day tradition that we want to tell you about. "Poisson D'avril", also known as "April Fools", is a joke made on April 1st of every year. In France, children try to stick a picture of a fish on their friends' back. When the joke is discovered, they shout "Poisson d'avril!" Ha!
Happy April Fool's Day from us folks at People Power Press!
If you like jokes or puns, we have some other funny buttons in the shop.
Click through the links to browse more funny buttons and greeting cards in our collection :)
Read more »
Guest Blog: Halifax School Expands Learning Experience with Button Making Maker Space March 29 2018
We have another guest blog from another award-winning teacher about how she has been using button making in the classroom. Laura Kennedy teaches at Sir Charles Tupper School in Halifax, Nova Scotia.
Button, Button, Who’s Got the Button - We Do!
Makerspaces are expanding learning in so many ways in schools, community centres and public spaces. What seems like a new idea is actually an age old concept; a space to wonder, explore and create. Tinkering in the garage, puttering in the garden and mixing up batches of homemade goodness in the kitchen are all examples of makerspaces.
Automation certainly played a role in bettering the lives of many but it also came with a loss of ownership and connection to products. Now the indispensable had become dispensable. When something broke or added to the clutter, it was unceremoniously tossed away.
Not only is there a loss of pride in making something by your own two hands, but a larger problem was created; that of bulging landfills. Further a sense of diminished skills left people unaware of how to darn a sock, sew a button, wonder at the thought that bread could be ‘made.’
When we lose skills that help provide for ourselves and grow to rely on a conveyor belt to roll out not only the things we need but a myriad of completely unnecessary items, we lose a bit of ourselves. Our sense of purpose and confidence slips.
Over time we have realized that post-consumer waste is at a critical point so recycling programs have been implemented. This is a beginning reaction but will not serve as the most productive solution. Not buying products with multiple layers and types of packaging is the next step. Soon we realize that we can actually live without individually wrapped items or that toy that breaks in the first five minutes of playing with it.
Makerspaces Let Students Produce Their Own Learning Experience
Happily this is where makerspaces adds another solution. Everyday household items like paper tubes, boxes, plastic utensils, bottles and so forth become the fodder for wonderfully imaginative creations. This is the beginning of the process. After being inspired by random items, makers begin the process of, “I wonder if we could…,” or “If we took three of these and added it to…,” and “How could we use…. to…?” It’s the questions that naturally emerge in this environment that truly spark the inventing, the creating, the making of solutions.
The purpose in students choices, the way they problem solve around design features, the consultation with others to ultimately fist pumping the air in jubilation with every, “We did it,” and “It worked,” proves an engagement that reading from a text or filling out questions on a photocopy could never produce.
It is said that makerspaces are about ideas, not about equipment. True indeed, as if you don’t have ideas, all the things that light up and beep won’t be of any use. Technology serves to help us develop our ideas beyond what we could without these tools. Materials chosen to advance a project, skill or program helps the process develop into the product. This is the ultimate goal; to have learners develop their thinking through the various stages towards creating a final item. Becoming producers of their learning along the way develops the learning far beyond just being a consumer of information.
Enter my experience with makerspaces. I love tables full of bits and pieces, bric-a-brac, things and sundry! The opportunities are endless. I was excited to say the least when a makerspace was available as part of an Innovation in Technology conference. Gears and coding and buttons - Oh my!
Button Making as Part of Makerspaces
I was immediately drawn to the button maker and was happy to be guided through the process until I had the method down. I tiptoed in by making a button using the pre-made templates and had that ‘joy’ moment when it all clicked together.
Ready to take on the next stage, ideas of how to customize my own button flooded my mind. I raced through the pictures I had on my computer were now platforms for humor, statements or just mere visuals. Ideas of how student voice could be recognized, collaborate on messages and demonstrate their interests came to mind as well. My mind raced to many add ons that could bring the button beyond a static object. I included a QR code to an image of my school added my Twitter handle and used that as my ‘business’ card of sorts. Linking it to our class or school website is an option as well.
Introducing Button Making in The Classroom
Happy to be supported by administration and local technology support liaisons, (Brilliantlabs.ca) we received a button maker and ample supplies to get us going. Well the glee that shrieked in the class was incredible. I think the students were happy too as I was too busy being the one shrieking! Materials create possibility and possibility creates opportunity.
We began by using a button template found on thebuttonguy.net, drawing a favorite item. A few missteps and a retreat to the directions helped to make the process go smoother. Labeling the parts of the button maker ensured that mistakes were fewer than before. You definitely learn as you go and understand what you need to fix and the new information is absorbed more readily because it is pertinent to what you are doing in the moment. It is long lasting learning and remains as permanent knowledge as you are able to see how to help others and know what is the cause of mistakes.
#OneWord2018, New Student Pins, Kindness Buttons and More...
We've had so much fun with the button maker so far making our own personal buttons, connected to our 2018 goal words, creating buttons for presenters, for our new primary students and most recently for kindergarten students in PEI to show them that their kindness to their fellow classmates was appreciated.
Students were happy to wear their buttons and share them with those at home. Beginning the new year, most turn to resolutions. The issue is that most are not kept or even thought of after the first few days. In this way, a more meaningful direction was pursued by way of a focus word. Following along with the #oneword2018, we all came up with a thought that resonated with each of us that could act as a direction.
We added these words to our Wonder-’full’ Wall of WOW words that we are collecting. The next logical step was to create buttons to keep our words close to our hearts. Guiding one student through the process while the next in line observed, students were able to upload their button image created with Google Draw to the online button designer to be ready to print out. Putting the final pieces together with the button maker takes a bit more hands on supervision as safety is one of the key features in any makerspace.
Connecting and Creating with Other Classrooms
Other classes are interested in learning from our experience and we are happy to share our expertise in this area. Joining forces with cross aged buddies only proves to strengthen our connections, creativity and communication.
We're working on a connection with another class in our area to create pins using their pixel art drawings that they used when practicing multiplication facts. They'll upload them to a file, send them our way, we'll be the elves and courier them back. Not just a maker project but a way to begin a conversation with a class that is in our school board but a world away considering geography separates us.
Now isn’t that what the big picture goal is all about? Who knows - a button maker business could be in the works to spread awareness, positive messages and new designs!
Students Creating Their Own Button Opportunities
Students have created buttons for themselves with images that mean the most to them, have collaborated with those at home to create a family button and have maintained their focus on their #oneword2018 on a button.
Even with all that creativity, I think the most forward use of the button maker was by a student who chose to create a button for a guest speaker who visited our school. We were happy to welcome Canada’s first Explorer in Residence, Jill Heinerth. Research before she came led to many discoveries and students chose various mediums to display their information. One student added an “Explore” button to her project to add a personal touch that went above and beyond that material could ever reveal. Now that is where learning and creating come together to make long lasting memories.
Using Button Making in Professional Development with Other Staff, Teachers
Sharing the button maker with staff and other teachers during professional development sessions proved as productive as when the students were introduced to the machine. Ideas, interest and intrigue were all elements that occured during that moment of reveal when each button rolled off.
Sharing the button maker with staff and a Masters level class at the local university had teachers making natural connections to ways they could incorporate it into their curriculum; reading list words, numbers, messages... and so much more.
Making one for themselves or family members came to mind first but quickly ideas of using buttons for high frequency words to support reading in the class came to mind. The conversations quickly turned to more possibilities and that is where the story actually begins…!
You can follow along with everything Laura Kennedy and her students are up to you can find them online on Twitter @Tupper1930 and @Lkennedy37.
If you are an educator and would like to introduce button making into your schools, please be in touch with us about what is involved. We will help walk you through the process!
Already have your own button maker and want to share your button making adventure with our readers? We'd love to hear from you!
Read more »
Canadian Musicians Rock! Magnets Just in Time for The JUNO Awards March 26 2018
Did you watch the Juno Awards this past weekend? Did your favourite Canadian musicians take home the hardware? What were your favourite live performances from the 47th Annual Juno Awards held in Vancouver?
We were feeling inspired so we have created a series of The Soundtrack of Canada Fridge Magnets. This new rounded rectangle magnet collection features just a few of the superstars that have come from this great country we call home. Look for hall of famers and current hitmakers.
These are now available for purchase in our Toronto Junction store or for purchase online.
Did we miss a CanCon act that you adore? Let us know so we can consider adding them to this collection.
Of course these designs can be made into the classic 1" band buttons. If you are a band, get your own custom band buttons so you too can be celebrated! Who knows, maybe there is a Juno award in your future. ; )
Read more »
Upcycle Inspiration: Pocket Mirrors made with Portraits from Vintage Books March 16 2018
We love the idea of upcycling and are always looking for ways to give new life to stuff with a little help from our button makers. So we've been at it again and love the result. Hope you do too!
We have lots of old library books here that we use to make upcycled notebooks, but what to do with the pages we remove from these books? Well, this time we collected images of women from vintage books to make fun and pretty pocket mirrors.
Paired with blue velvet carrying bags something old instantly became new again - and practical, which is even better!
Given the way they are made, we just have a few in our Toronto store. Each mirror is truly one of a kind so get yours before they disappear! This is a great item to carry in your bag so you can stay on top of your look on the go.
Great Gift Idea for Mother's Day and Wedding Bridal Parties!
These vintage portrait pocket mirrors (with bag included) also make a great and affordable gift. Mother's Day will soon be here, hint hint. Wedding coming up? Custom mirrors make perfect and personal bridal party gifts.
What is Upcycling Anyway?
Upcycling is the process of finding creative ways to reuse stuff instead of throwing it away. You keep stuff out of the landfill longer while also reducing the need to create new items with new raw materials.
We cut out the image in the old books that were going to be discarded and pressed with mylar into the 2-1/4" round button maker. Supplies for pocket/purse mirrors are available in the following shapes and sizes:
Round - 2-1/4" / 2-1/2" / 3" / 3-1/2"
Oval - 1-3/4" x 2-3/4"
Rectangle - 2" x 3" / 2-1/2" x 3-1/2"
Don't have a button maker, but like the idea for a different image? We can make custom mirrors for you too, with or without the velvet drawstring bags. Or you can rent a button maker from our Toronto store to either make mirrors in our maker space or to take off site!
Read more »
Worth the Visit to Our Retail Button Store: Explore Toronto's Junction Neighbourhood March 14 2018
While we ship buttons and button making supplies all over the world, we do have a storefront location in the fantastic Junction neighbourhood in Toronto's West End.
If you are thinking about buying a button maker, it is always a bonus to come see all the machines we sell and be able to try them out before making a decision. Even if you have to travel from out of town, it really is worth the trip. First, for our wide selection of machines that can't be found anywhere else. And second, for the great neighbourhood of local businesses available to explore.
Our shop is the go-to destination for people wanting to buy a button maker or get some custom buttons made. Customers have driven from as far as Quebec City, Sudbury and even Thunder Bay because they want to try out a few different kinds of machines and confidently walk out the door with the right button machine for their purpose.
We once even had someone fly in from Nigeria because this is the only shop in the world where you can try out different button making machines all in one place! No kidding!!
And we are lucky to call the Junction home so when you make the trip know that there are so many other cools places to visit here in one of Toronto's coolest neighbourhoods.
There are 54 bars, cafes and restaurants within a 10 minute walk from our door.
Just in our block alone, we are home to Hooked, a shop that was just voted Toronto's Best Fish Shop. We also have the local favourite independent coffee shop Crema right on the corner.
In the warm months of the year, Ice Cream Junction is your classic ice cream parlour that is always overflowing with all ages. In winter months, it has been home to some awesome pop-up shops for other yummy businesses. This winter Little Havana Cafe has been stationed there offering their popular Cuban coffee and special treats like lunch go-to empanadas and a very rockin' coconut milk latte.
We do also have to give a special shout out to our shop favourite take out lunch spot Dundas Pizza across the street. It is a no frills set-up but the pizza and wings always hit the spot.
Take a walk a bit further along Dundas St. W. and you will discover more great local businesses offering something different.
If you venture further west for something to eat or drink, check out Ro House (Vietnemese), When the Pig Came Home (a deli with fab sandwiches) and 3030 (great food and live music). Shamone is a favourite watering hole of ours offering unique drinks and free (!) finger foods daily. Honest Weight is a restaurant and fish shop that is not just a local favourite, but has garnered loads of press for their great food. Grasshopper is available for yummy meat-free offerings.
Looking for modern design and fashion? The Junction has that too and here are just a few highlights! Latre is a great modern unisex clothing store that also features unique art pieces. Mjolk is an internationally-recognized lifestyle shop and gallery featuring local, Scandinavian and Japanese designers. Coal Miner's Daughter is a women's clothing, jewellery, and accessories boutique specializing in local and Canadian independent designers. Their newest location is here in the Junction.
Vintage hunters can find something too. Door Number Two is located west of Keele and always has great items in store. Electric Revival gives new life to antique lighting fixtures for some truly stunning one-of-a-kind pieces.
The Junction boasts loads of salons for all styles and hair types. Gossips is a great location for curly hair styling and products and Arcana has a super cool vibe, but the service is chill and very down-to-earth. Guys can check out hip barbershop Rod, Gun & Barbers for a cut, shave or even grab a drink from the bar in the back.
Martin's Flower Shop used to be located just steps away from us, but they haven't moved out of the neighbourhood. Just down the road, they have great window displays always and a great spot to pick up remarkable fresh florals.
The original location for popular gluten-free bakery Bunner's is here in the Junction. We recommend their cinnamon buns or their supersonic cookie, but really we could endorse it all! Don't need gluten-free then hit up the old school bakery Sweet Trolley right next door.
We are only hitting on a few of the great shops in the neighbourhood so be sure to check out the Junction BIA directory here for a listing of most of the shops in the area.
If you are lucky, you may even be lucky enough to be visiting when one of the Junction's special events is on. The popular Junction Farmers Market runs from Spring to Fall on Saturdays.
Other annual events include the Toronto Design Offsite Festival (January), Summer Solstice (June), Pumpkinfest (October) and the Holiday Market featuring Santa in the Junction (December). Check out the Junction BIA Events page for more details!
Read more »
Dancing with the Docs: Fundraising Gala Buttons for The Ottawa Hospital March 12 2018
The highly popular Dancing with the Docs Gala fundraiser for The Ottawa Hospital Foundation is underway again and this time we got to get in on the fun!
Each year a number of doctors and researchers from The Ottawa Hospital train with professional dancers, much like the popular Dancing with the Stars television show, to compete for the Medicine Ball Award. Each dance team is raising money for an priority need of their choosing.
This gala event is also a great way to connect Ottawa’s health-care leaders and those who shape how we care for patients here and around the world.
You can learn more about each doctor and even vote for them here.
The fundraising priorities supported by this event include:
- Fundraising Priorities Supported by this Event:
- Research Chair in Regenerative Orthopaedic Surgery
- Advanced Stem Cell Therapies and access to care
- Breast Health Centre
- Cancer Research
- Molecular Oncology Diagnostics Laboratory
- Vision Research
We got to make Custom 3" Buttons for each team to support this awesome cause. The buttons show each doctor and dancer team. The dancers are professionals from the Arthur Murray Dance Studio in Ottawa.
Watch the video below to see just what kind of a night you are in for if you attend the 2018 Dancing with the Docs Gala:
While we don't yet have an Ottawa location, we have been making custom buttons for our Ottawa customers for years with fast turnaround time - quick high quality production paired with fast shipping times. You'd almost think we were in Ottawa!
Looking for custom buttons for your event? Please reach out if you'd like to find out more.
Read more »
Get Crafty With Us This March Break in the Junction's Button Maker Space! March 09 2018
March Break is on it's way and we would love for you to come spend some of it with us! Unless of course you are headed to a warm beach somewhere and then well, go do that. ;)
Come to our button maker space located in Toronto's Junction neighbourhood to make a button for special March Break price of just $1 per pin or take part in daily custom jewelry making sessions!
If you have never made a button, just know it is a great activity for all ages - kids and kids at heart! This is the perfect way to introduce yourself to button making.
Bring your own images to use or create your design on the spot in our space. All materials needed will be available.
We are offering special March Break Make-A-Button pricing of $1 per button! Normally it is $2 per button.
Daily Custom Jewelry Making Sessions at 1 p.m.
We will also be offering casual custom jewelry making sessions at 1 p.m. each day from March 12 - 16.
For $20, you will get to make one bracelet or one necklace with 10 interchangeable charms that you design! Again, bring your own designs or make in store with materials provided.
No need to register for either of these activities (unless you are bringing a large group). Just pick a day and come on into our bright and friendly maker space located in the trendy Junction area. We can't wait to get making some stuff with you.
Do contact us if you have any questions or need any more information.
Read more »
Centennial College Story Arts Campus Presents Harry Potter Exhibition with Fun Custom Pins March 08 2018
Just how well do you know Harry Potter?
Even if you think you know all there is to know about the Boy Who Lived and the other fantastic characters of the Harry Potter universe, you might want to check out this upcoming Toronto show: Centennial College Story Arts Campus Presents Harry Potter, The Exhibition.
The event runs March 7th to 14th with a special closing event on the 14th. As part of this "What's in a Name" exhibition you will be able to learn all about the history of your favourite (and not-so-favourite) Harry Potter characters.
You will also be able to see these fun custom 1" buttons we made for the event!
In the area and want to go? Find out more here.
Not close, but still wanting to test your knowledge of the Potter-verse? Test yourself with this online quiz!
Have an event you want to make buttons for? Contact us for more information about custom buttons! You don't have to be in Toronto to get fast delivery. No magic needed, just some super service to get you what you need. ; )
Read more »
What's Your Sign? Introducing Sparkly Zodiac Button Cards! March 07 2018
So what's your sign? No, really what is your zodiac sign?
We have created a new series of holographic zodiac buttons that is written in the stars.
We have all 12 constellations in the pin collection available in store or place your order online. Each button comes pinned to a card with a fun description of what the zodiac sign is, so see if you match up with your sign.
These are simple and fun birthday gift ideas to tuck into a card, give instead of a card or as a fun addition to another present. A great and inexpensive way to celebrate someone special.
Wear your pin so no one ever needs to ask you what your sign is. ; )
Read more »
Political Campaign Buttons for Every Cause in Upcoming Provincial Elections March 05 2018
Election excitement has been filling up the headlines again as Ontario heads into a provincial election in a few months. There has been some added drama surrounding the unexpected resignation of Progressive Conservative leader Patrick Brown and the need to elect a new leader of the party so close to the main June 7th election.
Whatever stories are filling the newsfeeds, buttons have always played a role in elections.
So as things heat up here in Ontario and will start to intensify in Quebec and New Brunswick - the two other provinces having elections this year - we would like to help you determine how campaign buttons can help your party and causes that are important to you.
We have written an in-depth guide to election buttons here to help you figure out how to make effective campaign buttons. We are always busy making buttons come election time, with experience on the specific design needs of each party. Contact us today if you would like us to make custom election buttons for your campaign or to get you set up with a buttonmaker to make your own!
Beyond Party Lines - The Issues That Matter to You the Citizen
Buttons don't just have to support a specific candidate or party either. There are a load of big issues being discussed this year and buttons can help let people know where you stand while also raising awareness wherever you go.
What is the issue or cause that is important to you in this year's election?
Buttons can be given to supporters to help spread the word by simply pinning it on your jacket or posting a picture on your social media feeds. Campaign buttons are conversation starters, giving people the opportunity to learn more about what matters to you and allowing others to be engaged too.
Make your message clear. You can always expand on your message in conversation, but make sure the issue really stands out in a clear way on your pin. "Affordable Housing NOW!" is much more clear and effective than putting a paragraph or lots of details onto the pin. With more words, the issue can get lost and the button gets a lot less effective. You can include a website so those who want to know more can find out more there.
Make it catchy. Using humour or stating your message in a clever way helps. Think of the best Super Bowl ads and what usually resonates with people. Just think about what you connect with and remember. Use those tactics in designing your own pin.
Use #peoplepowerpin to share your message - and get a button from us!
Follow the #peoplepowerpin hashtag on social media to see what issues matter to others across the country. If you have a button to share or just a topic that is important to you in the upcoming election, please be sure to use #peoplepowerpin.
We want to highlight issues across Canada (and beyond!) so share your issues and if you haven't made that message into a pin, we will do it for you. Just tag #peoplepowerpin with what issue matters to you - we will put in on a pin and send it to you!
We look forward to hearing what matters to you!
Read more »
#PressforProgress this International Women's Day March 8th with Buttons and Stickers March 01 2018
International Women's Day is coming up on March 8th and there has never been a more important time to take a stand for women's equality.
#MeToo and #TimesUp have become powerful global movements that are putting women's empowerment in the spotlight, giving even greater importance to March 8th.
Did you know that gender parity is over 200 years away, according to the World Economic Forum's 2017 Global Gender Gap Report?
Now is the time to get active and work for change to speed things up!
And we want to help arm you with the tools to spread the message of women's empowerment - and more! - and spark conversations about the issues that are important to you.
Introducing the Women's Empowerment Collection!
We are super excited to introduce our Women's Empowerment Collection as the first in the new People Power Press Social Justice Merchandise series.
This collection includes of 7 simple, but powerful designs are available to order online as buttons in small or large quantities. You can also order as stickers, magnets or any of our other custom products.
We have each image available in pink and white AND black and white. Choose one image or mix them up. You can also customize these images for your own organization.
#PressforProgress is the theme for International Women's Day 2018
This year's theme for International Women's Day is #PressforProgress. You can read more here, but the idea is that we need to stop being complacent and start taking action to see real change.
We also made some #MeToo buttons and #TimesUp pins that you can check out here.
Our Women's Empowerment collection is the first one in our series of People Power Press Social Justice Merchandise. LGBTQ+ rights buttons and anti-racism buttons are under development and will be made available in the spring of 2018. You can also find more activist buttons here.
Read more »
Toronto Lash and Eyebrow Bar Pretty Little Secrets is Celebrating 2 Years of Beautiful! February 28 2018
Imagine feeling beautiful the moment you wake up, without any makeup. That is the goal that Pretty Little Secrets Lash & Brow Bar has for all its customers.
Located in Toronto's West End, the business offers a variety of up-to-date lash and brow services for women and men, including lash extensions, eyebrow shaping and makeup application.
The business is growing fast and it is time to celebrate! Pretty Little Secrets is throwing a party on March 2nd to celebrate 2 years of making their customers feel beautiful.
We got to get in on the action with these bright and fun 2-1/2" custom buttons with the Pretty Little Secrets logo that will be part of their Miami Vice birthday bash.
If you are in the area and want to join the fun - because it really does look like a lot of fun! - you can RSVP to info@prettylittlesecrets.ca.
You learn more about all of Pretty Little Secrets services online. Their service has also had an impact on people who have cancer to feel a little more dignity and look more like themselves before, during and after treatments.
They also have a fun and active Instagram account, so check them out: @prettylittlesecrets_canada
Happy Anniversary PLS!!
Buttons for Gift Bags and Swag Bags for Your Event?
Custom buttons make a great addition to any special event, especially if you are thinking of offering swag bags or gift bags for your guests. Buttons - other custom products - are a fun and personal touch for your supporters that they can take home! Contact us if you are looking for gift bag or swag bag ideas. We offer more than buttons.