Say it With a 2” x 3” Rectangle Fridge Magnet: Great for Personal Statement Gifts, Promotional Giveaways and More! April 24 2017

The 2" x 3” Rectangle Fridge Magnet is a great versatile choice. A popular size for family photos and personal statement gifts, this magnet is a favourite souvenir shop idea and for real estate promotional giveaways too.

See the process of making a 2" x 3” Rectangle Fridge Magnet in this new video from The Button Guy. This video will show you important tips to successfully make magnets with the 2” x 3” rectangle button maker.

This essential advice includes how to cut your artwork, how to properly apply the peel n’ stick magnet and why it is important to let your magnets sit on a flat surface for 24 hours before hanging them on another surface.

Once you see how easy it is to make 2" x 3” Rectangle Fridge Magnets you will be able to get busy. Some projects include:

• Decorating your locker or fridge with family photos and other art
• Making personalized statement gifts for friends and family
• Creating promotional giveaways for your business to hand out to clients and at trade shows and conferences
• Designing your artwork like a postcard for your city's attractions for a great souvenir shop idea

To get started you will need the 2 x 3” Rectangle Button Maker Kit. This machine will also make pinback buttons so you can really have some fun! You will also need all the supplies to make 2 x 3” Rectangle Peel n’ Stick Magnets.

Loving the idea of these fridge magnets, but not ready to invest in a button maker? We can make Custom 2 x 3” Rectangle Magnets for you with the design of your choice. Check out the other custom magnet sizes we have available.

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Earth Love Pin Packs: Can You Dig It? April 21 2017

Calling all Green Thumbs and Tree Huggers! It's almost time to dust off the old trowel, and get digging :)

Spring is in the air and our Earth Love Pin Packs are in full bloom! Our button garden will be ready to harvest in no time.

The Earth Love Pin Pack makes a great gift for gardeners, and is the perfect accessory for nature lovers or anyone of the Eco-conscious persuasion.

Each Earth Love Pin Pack include 4 x 1-1/4" Round Pinback Buttons with randomly selected button designs. You can also look through all of the Earth Love button designs and pick a single button design from the collection.

If you like the Earth Love Pin Packs, you might also be interested in taking a look at the "I Heart Veggies" Pin Packs too! Another awesome button collection for those who are 100% Plant Powered :)

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Buttons with Simple Text Design for Tribute to the 100th Anniversary of Vimy Ridge April 19 2017

Customer Lorne walked into the shop one day wanting to make a custom button with a simple text design to take with him to the 100th anniversary of Vimy Ridge. The story behind the button design was anything but simple. 

These 2-1/4" custom round buttons were made to honour veterans, including those who fought in the historic battle of Vimy Ridge 100 years ago. This battle is considered to be a defining moment in Canadian history. 

Lorne will be carrying these custom round buttons as he travels to attend the 100th anniversary of Vimy Ridge this month. He has a very personal connection to The First World War, when the battle at Vimy Ridge occurred. His father was a soldier in this war. He also has a brother who is a veteran of the Second World War and was featured in a CBC miniseries called The Valour and the Horror. 

In addition to his trip to Vimy Ridge, Lorne was also present at the opening of the Juno Beach Centre.  

Buttons with Simple Text Design Can Share Your Message

These buttons are a great example of how one button can be used to share your message.

If you would like to tell your story with a custom button, please let us know. Often customers don't think we will make a single button, but we will make a few or as many buttons as you'd like!

If you have an idea, we can help bring it to life. We offer a variety of custom button sizes and shapes, as well as many other custom products. We also have a variety of design services available to match your needs. 

You can also get creative and create your own buttons with simple text design using Button Designer. It's free and easy to use!

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Fantastic Toronto Comicon Buttons by Artist Leanne Davies April 10 2017

Toronto artist Leanne Davies recently hit up Toronto Comicon with these rad custom 1.5” square buttons.

Leanne Davies is a visual artist who paints in acrylics and watercolour. Her work illuminates beauty in the absurd and the ironic. Influences on her work include social media and popular culture with desire and the intricacy of human relationships as two common themes in her art.

She had two of her paintings put onto buttons to sell at the pop culture convention where she was an exhibitor.

Leanne Davies’ Spock and Super Dave paintings were pressed into 1.5” square buttons.

This shape and size combination is a great choice for visual artists looking for affordable ways to sell art at shows like Toronto Comicon. This is because the button is big enough to display the detail of the artwork, but is still wearable.

There are a number of custom options for visual artists looking to sell their artwork at a pop culture convention or any other number of shows. Custom magnets, mirrors, coasters, keychains and jewelry are other unique and affordable ways to sell art. These items also provide low cost ways for people to buy art. 

To learn more about Leanne Davies and view her fantastic online gallery, visit www.leannedavies.com.

You can also follow her - and see her recent Toronto Comicon adventures - on Instagram. 

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Celebrate Montreal 375 With Buttons and Magnets! March 30 2017

Happy Birthday Montreal! You don't look a day older than 374! :) In recognition of your big day, we decided to celebrate Montreal 375 with buttons and magnets. Our super awesome designers decided to use rounded rectangle button parts for these fun and funky retro designs, reminiscent of Expo '67.

 Fun Facts about Montreal:

• Montréal is an island.
• Montréal is the second largest French speaking city in the world (after Paris).
• Montréal's predominant religion is Hockey (haha).
• 85% of the world's maple syrup comes from Québec, Montréal's Provence
  Source: ISHLT.org

Know someone who's joining the party? You can order Montreal 375 buttons and magnets quickly and easily on our site. We can also help you create and make your own custom buttons for this or any type of anniversary!

For those who are also getting ready for Canada 150 , take a look at the collection of Canada 150 Buttons and other fun stuff we made.

Get yer party chapeaus on, y'all! 2017 is going to be a big fun year :)

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All About Printing Your Button Artwork: CMYK vs RGB March 29 2017

Designing button artwork takes some creativity with a just a little pinch of technical know-how. Many customers who order custom buttons inquire about the best file type for their button artwork, but another important aspect of button artwork is the colour space in which it was created.

This blog post is dedicated to colour spaces and what that means in relation to designing buttons :) Let's go!

WHAT IS A COLOUR SPACE?

A colour space is simply an organization or range of colours. You can think of a colour space as palette of all the colours available for you to work with. The two colour spaces that are most common when working in Photoshop or Illustrator are RGB and CMYK. What is the difference between the two? Quite a lot actually!

RGB COLOUR SPACE

RGB in an acronym for Red, Green, and Blue, and is the colour space used by electronic displays. You should be working in an RGB colour space if the final product is going to be presented digitally on a screen, like a picture that's going on a website. Every colour in an RGB colour space is made of some combination of red, green, and blue.

CMYK COLOUR SPACE

CMYK is an acronym that stands for Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Key (which is black). You should be working in a CMYK colour space if the final product is going to be printed, and not presented on a screen. The palette of colours that you can access in a CMYK colour space can all be made by mixing different amounts of Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Black, the colours of ink used by a printer.

WHY USE A CMYK COLOUR SPACE INSTEAD OF RGB FOR DESIGNING BUTTONS?

The colour spectrum in an RGB colour space is vast, however, many of the colours are NOT able to be reproduced by a printer. Why not? Because the colours are just not able to be created by the mixing Cyan, Magenta,Yellow, and Black together. It uses a different palette of colours entirely.

If you do try and print out a file that was designed in RGB, you'll notice that the colours look pretty different than they do on the computer. This is because the printer has to substitute all of the RGB colours that it cannot create with a combination of cyan, magenta, yellow, and black ink.

LET'S GET VISUAL

Below is an example of a button design that was created in RGB. The vibrant green on the screen looks bright and saturated. This is because the colours present in the design are made up of Red, Green, and Blue, and are also back lit on the computer.

Beside the digital button artwork designed in RGB is the same button, the only difference is that it was printed out on a laser printer. The RGB colours were substituted to CMYK, and the final printed art looks really different because there is a different colour palette available.

The above picture sums up why it's important to design you button artwork in CMYK: you won't get any surprise colours!

BUT I REALLY WANT A NEON BUTTON...

Just because a nice vivid neon colour can't be printed out on a printer, doesn't mean that there aren't other ways to achieve a vibrant, striking button. A great way to achieve a neon look, is to print the button artowrk on a Dura-Lar transparency and pair it with bright paper. For extra sparkle, holographic foil or metallic foil can also be used to create something flashy and fabulous! Watch the video "How-To Make Buttons With Dura-Lar" and get your neon on!

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Fun Fan Art: Custom Rounded Rectangle Buttons for Doggy-Yasha March 28 2017

Doggy-Yasha is a Winnipeg-based artist who creates awesome fan art as well as original illustrations. We recently made them come custom fan art buttons, and the finished product turned out pretty nice!

These custom fan-art buttons are a unique size and shape which works well with the composition of the designs. The buttons are 1-3/4" x 2-3/4" Rounded Rectangle Pinbacks, a relatively new button size that looks extremely sleek and professional with clean rounded corners. We also make Custom  Rounded Rectangle Magnets, a lovely addition to any refrigerator door!

If You Like Fan-Art Buttons, Check This Out:

If the fan-art aspect of this post caught your eye, or if you're interested in making buttons for conventions or fan expos, take a peek at the blog feature "Button Making Business: Convention Tips from a Pro!" It's full of great information about selling buttons at conventions.

Check out more of Doggy-Yasha's work online!

Doggy-Yasha on Tumblr: http://www.yashaart.tumblr.com
Doggy-Yasha on Red Bubble: http://www.redbubble.com/people/doggyyasha
Doggy-Yasha on Instagram: @DoggyYasha

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Tokens for events as well as your gumball machine March 24 2017

We usually have vending tokens in stock for gumball machines.  This year I have had quite a few customers wanting to use tokens instead of tickets at their upcoming events this summer.  It's a smart idea!   Many organizations are now using tokens instead of tickets in their food/drink/ride booths.  Tokens do reduce the amount of cash handling by staff and volunteers and remember tokens are reusable year after year.  So if you're planning an event and need a ticket system maybe we have the tokens you need so your event runs smoothly this summer.

We stock .984 tokens and they are the most popular token size suitable for "free vend" mechanisms on vending machines and are great for event management and cash security at both indoor and outdoor events.  Order .984 tokens

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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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Make-A-Button: Fun Family March Break Activity! March 14 2017

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Creepy Buttons for Creepy Cake Co. March 09 2017

These wonderfully creepy custom buttons are a delicious mix of spooky and sweet, a perfect fit for Creepy Cake Co.

Boasting doom & gloom in every bite, this Niagara Region bakery specializes in baked goods with a distinctly creepy flair.

Creepy Cake Co. jumped on the button band wagon with these creepy custom 1-1/2" Round Pinback Buttons. The size of button works really well with their logo, large enough to read the text no problem, but still small and wearable. Excellent choice Creepy Cake Co!

Now if only making buttons could end with eating frosting right out of the bowl :)

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Great Ideas: Buttons for Your Wedding! March 06 2017

 Wedding planning season is here! We are always thrilled about the beautiful ideas that come through the shop at this time of year (like these beautiful buttons for the Wedding Co Show)

We always have questions about ideas for buttons as wedding favours but what about gifts for your wedding party too? Custom Bottle Openers and Pocket Mirrors as gifts for the loved ones supporting you on your special day can be personal and perfect!

Buttons, magnets, mirrors or bottle openers, make excellent wedding favours too! Some of our customers make personalized buttons with the name of each guest! One of our designers made illustrated "Bride" and "Groom" buttons for her wedding!

The possibilities are endless! You can design your own! Or if you have ideas but don't know exactly what you want email us and we can work with you to come up with something special!

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Daily Deals for the Month of March 2017 March 01 2017

Exciting news! Daily Deals are going to be a bit different for the month of March and beyond :) Now, each day of the week will have its own Daily Button Deal that will last all month long. So every Monday in the month will have the same deal, same for Tuesday, etc.

This lets you have a little more time to get in on the Daily Deal action. If you miss a day, you still have plenty of time to catch the deal before it's gone forever...

Also, the discount is now built right into the price, so it's easier than ever to save!

	Deal for All Mondays in March: Buy 2 Packs of Pre-Cut White Paper Circles for Button Making and Get 1 Pack Free
	Deal for All Tuesdays in March: Buy Everything for 500 Standard 1-3/4" Ceramic Magnets and get a 25 pack of Standard 1-3/4" Pinback Buttons FREE
	Deal for All Wednesdays in March: Get 15% Off Custom Round 7/8" Lockpin Buttons
	Deal for All Thursdays in March: Design Service Upgrade: Get a FREE Simple Setup when you order a Custom Product
	Deal for Fridays / Saturdays / Sundays in March: Get 10% Off Parts & Supplies for the 3" FLEX1000 Die Set

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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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From the Button Archives - Carnaval de Québec, Bonhomme Buttons February 12 2017

Who is 7 feet tall, is made of 400 pounds of snow, and is annually presented with the Key to the City of Québec?

Why, it's Bonhomme Carnaval, the King of Carnaval de Québec!

Bonhomme Carnaval has been the ambassador of the Carnaval de Québec since 1955 when he started warming the hearts of people in Québec during frosty winters. Though this 3" button isn't as old at the Bonhomme himself, it's still dates back to the 1970s which is pretty neat!

Have a cozy winter and Joueux Carnaval!

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Ontario 150 - Ontario 150 logo buttons and magnets February 10 2017

Ontario 150 confederation anniversary coming up on July 1st.  You may have seen the TV ads that started this week.

On July 1, 1867, Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia entered into Confederation. That’s why we celebrate Canada’s anniversary each year on July 1^st.

2017 will mark our 150^th anniversary, so this is a big birthday!  The Ontario government says this is a chance to celebrate and reflect on our history, look ahead towards the next 150 years, and embark on an exciting new chapter for the province.

At People Power Press we will be celebrating with Ontario 150 buttons and magnets. The Ontario 150 logo has been criticized as being unclear, not clean and not balanced and apparently cost $30,000.  Toronto Star Article.  I know our design team would have done it for less and it would be better but what can you do.  This is the official logo and it's got a quirky feel to it.

There is also the official Canada 150 logo which has also been criticized, so if anyone out there can do better for either of these designs, send it in and if we publish it we'll send you a button with your Ontario 150 logo.

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UPSTARTS: Custom Buttons for Big Ideas February 10 2017

UPSTARTS is an brand new organization that acts as a platform for young innovators.

They're so brand new, in fact, they haven't even launched yet! They'll be officially launched on March 1st 2017, and we've got a sneak peek of some swag (spoiler alert: they're custom buttons!)

UPSTARTS work to connect the next generation of thinkers and entrepreneurs with scholarships, mentorships, and opportunities to make Canada a better place.

What a cool idea, UPSTARTS!! Supporting the "side hustle" of today's youth to foster the entrepreneurs of tomorrow :)

These Custom 2-1/2" Round Buttons are big and bold, just like the ideas that UPSTARTS will foster. Thanks for taking these custom buttons along for an exciting ride shaping the Canada of tomorrow!

Check out UPSTARTS on social media for for info!

WEBSITE: www.upstarts.me
FACEBOOK: @upstarts.me
TWITTER: @UPSTARTS

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Button Making Business: Convention Tips from a Pro February 08 2017

Fan conventions seem to get bigger every year and art buttons are one of the hottest artist alley sellers. Whether you are ordering custom buttons made with your artwork or firing up your own button press to make your own, buttons are a great and low-cost way to get your art in the hands of your con-going customers.

We get lots of requests for tips and advice for selling buttons at conventions and although we dipped our toes in at FanExpo 2013 we asked artist and convention veteran Allie of "Allieeeps!" for her top Artist Alley Button tips!

PPP: How long have you been doing artist Alleys at Conventions?

Allie: I've been doing artist alley for 10 years now and selling buttons for the last 9. 

PPP: You sell prints and other art as well, but buttons have become a big part of your art business!

A: Over time they have definitely become my biggest sellers! Which is great because they're my favorite thing to do. People are more inclined to spend a few dollars on a button than many dollars on a print.

PPP: We get a lot of questions about what con-goers are likely to respond to art-wise. What kind of artwork/characters do you find are the most popular ones (original vs. popular characters)? What sizes work best for fan buttons?

A: Pre-existing characters outsell original characters by an extremely large margin. But it doesn't necessarily follow that a popular thing will outsell an unpopular thing. Game of Thrones is extremely popular for instance but my GoT buttons never do well. And some buttons that were popular a year ago are impossible to sell now. At the same time, nostalgia can be a big factor in sales, and if you do something lesser known you might be the only table that has it and therefore less competition. My best advice is to make buttons for what YOU love because then even if they don't sell well you'll have a fun time making them!

 PPP: Can fans find your buttons online?

-Yes I sell buttons online. I'm definitely a smaller seller though, I know many people who are always having to restock because their online store is so successful. I'm not sure what the secret is but I don't mind making very few sales online, it keeps my non-work life from getting too crazy. 

PPP: This is really great advice for seasoned sellers and newbies alike! Can we shout out your favorite convention to table at?

A: Favorite convention goes to Calgary Expo. It's massive but not overwhelming and the people are so nice and excited about the artists alley. Plus it's always exciting to get to travel a little for a con. 

Check out Allie's art and buttons on Etsy and DeviantArt

Inspired to make your own buttons or interested in starting your own fan button business? Start by checking out our button making start-up kits and custom button services!

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Sweet & Sassy Button Greeting Cards for Valentine's Day February 07 2017

The People Power Press Button Greeting Card Collection has some Sweet and Sassy new additions for Valentine's Day!

If you're not big into Valentine's Day let us break the news for you with the "Sorry Valentine, Love Stinks" card. For the traditionalist, we've got a good ole "Will You be my Valentine" card :) Each card comes with a sweet little button so your Valentine can wear a piece of the card and think of you all day long!

If the other card designs are too cheesy for ya, just add a piece of heart shaped pepperoni, because who doesn't love a slice of pizza and a hilarious pun? Take another little Pizza my Heart!

Each card measures 4 X 5.75" and is blank inside so you can write a personal message. They also come with an envelope, and of course a pinback button :)

Like what you see here? Take a look at all of our Valentine's Day Button Greeting Cards, or the entire People Power Press Button Greeting Card Collection!

Have a Happy Valentine's Day!

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Throwback Thursday: Groundhog Day Vintage Button Roundup February 02 2017

We know Groundhog day seems like it happens again and again so why not delve into the past with these cool vintage Groundhog Day buttons. We're not sure how accurate of a meteorologist these little dudes are but knowing it'll be spring eventually is good enough for us! 

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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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Buttons for Chinese New Year: Year of the Rooster January 27 2017

Gong Xi Fa Cai and Gong Hey Fat Choy! Tomorrow marks 2017's Chinese New Year and this year is the Year of the Rooster so we made this bright and sparkley buttons to celebrate. This year's element is Fire! You can find out what your Chinese zodiac sign is here.

You can make your own sparkley, holographic buttons too! We used Clear Dura-Lar and Holographic Gold Disco foil. Find out more about holographic buttons on our blog post all about them!

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MYLAR 101: What does "Mil" Mean? January 23 2017

As some of you may have noticed, Mylar and Dura-Lar are measured by thickness.
The thickness of Mylar and Dura-Lar are measured in "mil" ... But, what's a mil?

A Mil is equal to 1/1,000th of an inch, and is written either as "1 mil" or 0.001"

MEASURING MYLAR

The standard thickness is 3mil Mylar or 0.003" Mylar. This is the standard thickness, and is best paired with standard 20lb printer paper. Three mil Mylar is what comes in all of our button making kits, and is the industry standard thickness. It is 3/1,000ths of an inch in thickness.

MEASURING DURA-LAR

Dura-Lar Film, a Mylar alternative that can go through a laser printer, is also measure in mil.

The Silver/Gold double sided Mattalised Dura-Lar Film is the thinnest Dura-Lar product with a thickness of 2 mil (0.002"). The Glossy Dura-Lar Film is slightly thicker than regular Mylar, at 4 mil (0.004") thick, and the thickest is Matte Dura-Lar at 5 mil (0.005").

So now when you're shopping around for Mylar or other specialty finishes and see the word Mil kicking about, you know exactly what it means! Knowledge is Power!

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Girl Guides with Mighty Minds: Fighting the Stigma with Custom Buttons January 20 2017

On January 21st, the Girl Guides of Canada are coming together to Shine a Light on Metal Health and bring awareness to the importance of building positive mental health in girls.

You better believe that custom buttons will be there to help fighting the stigma too!

The Shine a Light on Mental Health event also marks the roll out new Girl Guides of Canada programming called "Mighty Minds." The programming will teaching girls how to cope with every day life challenges & address the stigma surrounding mental health.

These custom 1" buttons boast the colourful logo for Mighty Minds and will aid in raising awareness about mental health. We think it's pretty cool that they're using buttons to get their message out there.

Head on down to Nathan Philips Square at 5:30 pm on January 21st to be part of it all :) Who knows, you might even be wearing one of these buttons by the end!

For more info, check out Girl Guides of Canada on social media:

Website (www.girlguides.ca)
Twitter (@girlguidesofcan)
Facebook  (@GirlGuidesofCanada.GuidesduCanada/)
Instagram (@girlguidesofcanada)
YouTube (@ggcanada)

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Product Feature: PPP Button Greeting Cards January 18 2017

Sending a greeting card to someone special? Let them know that they're the nearest and dearest with a People Power Press Button Greeting Card!

We've got a whole bunch of card designs for graduations, baby showers, birthdays, weddings, retirements, and lots of other seasonal special occasions and holidays.

The entire People Power Press Button Greeting Card Collection can be found here! Our collection of Button Greeting Cards will be growing too, so check back and see what cards we have in the future.

Best part of all: even if the card makes its way to the recycling bin, the recipient will always have a button to wear, share, and remind them of how thoughtful you are :)

All greeting cards measure 4 X 5.75", are blank on the inside, come with a white envelope, and a stylish pinback button that's ready to wear.

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Celebrate Canada 150th with Buttons and Magnets at People Power Press! January 12 2017

People Power Press has now been officially approved by the government of Canada to reproduce the official Canada 150 logo on our buttons and magnets!

Our idea is to spread our buttons far and wide for Canada 150 celebrations using the official government Canada 150 logo on various sizes and shapes of buttons and magnets. They will be available for people who want to get just 1 or for companies that want all their employees to join the Canada 150 celebrations with a button.

The celebrations start here and now at People Power Press. The first 100 people that come into our store can pickup an official Canada 150 button - Just say the magic words "Oh Canada!". First come first served. 1 button only per person. Swing by and pickup a button.

Check out our full collection of Canada 150 Official Logo Merchandise to order your own!

Or maybe you just want to wear the flag! Order Canadian flag buttons or show your national pride with our "Canada Eh!" collection!

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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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Flashback Friday: The History of Buttons January 06 2017

Have you ever ever wondered why and how pinback buttons came into existence?

Well, wonder no more! At People Power Press, we love buttons so much that we wanted to share the history buttons with all of you :)

Let's start at the beginning and go way back to when the first buttons hit the scene. They weren't like the buttons we know and love today, but hey, it was in the 1700's, an evolution was bound to happen along the way!

Enjoy the entire Short History of the Pinback Button presented by The Button Guy and learn how buttons came to be!

Can't get enough button history? You can check out an older post featuring some more REALLY old-school inaugural buttons here.

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Great Ideas: The Resolution-O-Matic Button Vending Machine January 04 2017

Setting new year's resolutions can be super boring and stressful! Let us pick one for you! This month we decided to fill up the vending machine outside the shop with silly New Year's resolution that you can keep (like "Eat More Cake") or aspire to ("Become a Rockstar"), randomly selected for you!

Stop by our Toronto shop to grab your own!

Inspired? Resolve to make more buttons! Put your own button sales on automatic with Button Vending Machines in a variety of sizes! The one outside our shop is a Round Beaver model that fits 1" Buttons and is available as a kit with everything you need to sell buttons with it!

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Get That New Year's Sparkle All Year Long With Holographic Foil December 30 2016

All of the button artwork above were printed on Dura-Lar Film and this printed Dura-Lar was then placed right on top of the holographic foil to get this fabulously glittery finish.

Button designs using holographic foil tend to be most successful when paired with simple clean digital artwork. Black and solid bold colours look great!

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New Video: Making Buttons with Dura-Lar December 27 2016

This video from The Button Guy will show you how to make buttons with all kinds of different finishes using Dura-Lar transparent film!

Dura-Lar is the perfect acetate alternative.  A highly versatile polyester film that is the perfect cross between mylar and acetate (which CANNOT GO THROUGH A LASER PRINTER!). 

It is a super high-quality product that is heat resistant, tear resistant and does not absorb moisture or discolor with age. So your buttons artwork will still look stunning for years and years to come!

       

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New Video: How to Unjam Your Button Maker When the Dies are Stuck Together December 23 2016

Nine times out of 10, when a customer brings in a broken machine it turns out to be nothing more than a jam (which is great news)!

A button maker jam is something that is easily remedied at home, and often requires nothing more than some elbow grease and a bit of patience.

This video will teach you everything you need to know about how to un-jam your button maker when the top and bottom dies are stuck together. Hopefully it will save you unneeded stress, and an unneeded emergency visit to the button store!

THINGS YOU MAY NEED TO UNJAM YOUR MACHINE

- A large rubber mallet. Please don't use a metal hammer on your hand press!

KNOW YOUR HAND PRESS

Use this simple diagram to navigate your hand press

- Hold the handle firmly in the upright position.

- Confidently hit the bottom die that is NOT stuck with the rubber mallet. Don't be shy! The mallet is rubber and the machine is super sturdy.

- Once the bottom die is released from the clutches of the top die, eject the cause of the jam by lifting the outer part of upper die. Hopefully it will pop right out!

- If the jammed button shell / artwork doesn't come out by lifting the outer part of the upper die, try pressing the button over an empty crimp die (the deeper one where the pinned back go). Usually the button will release after pressing as usual.

Though knowing how to unjam your button maker when the dies are stuck together is a really good skill to have, so is knowing how to avoid a button maker jam in the first place :) Luckily The Button Guy already has a great How-To Video for just that! SWEET!

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Happy Holidays! Storefront Holiday Hours December 21 2016

People Power Press Holiday Gift Guide

To make your holiday shopping as easy as possible, we created a 2016 Gift Guide with all of our best goodies for those who made it on the nice list!

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Show Your Love for Animals with Toronto Animal Save Buttons! December 20 2016

Show your love for "The Save Movement" with this colourful collection of Animal Save Buttons!

The Save Movement began in 2010 with Toronto Pig Save. They work to create transparency at Toronto area slaughterhouses, encourage people to protect the environment, support farm sanctuaries, and embrace a vegan lifestyle :)

Toronto Pig Save has now grown to include Toronto Cow Save, and Toronto Chicken Save, as well as other groups around the world.

Available designs include Toronto Pig Save, Toronto Cow Save, Toronto Chicken Save ($5 each) or collect all 3 for $10! The best part of all is that a portion of each sale goes right to the Toronto Animal Save movement! YAY

Check out these links to find out more info about The Save Movement and how to get involved!

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New Video: Tips and Tricks for Using Button Vending Machine Capsules December 15 2016

BUTTON VENDING MACHINE ACORNS & CAPSULES

Do you own a vending machine and need some more capsules for your button vending needs? We carry many different sizes of capsules and acorns for use with the Button Rocket, Northern Beaver, and Button Hawk Vending Machines!

We discovered that there are a couple of tips and tricks that make button vending super duper easy. Take a peek at the video below from The Button Guy that will make you a vending capsule expert too :)

VENDING CAPSULE CHEAT SHEET

1" capsules: Vend up to 4 x 1" round lockpin buttons (get custom 1" buttons here)
Also suitable for 7/8" buttons

2" capsules: Vend up to 3 x 1-3/4" round buttons (get custom 1-3/4" buttons here)
Also suitable for 7/8", 1", 1-1/4" and 1-1/2" buttons, keychains etc

3" capsules: Vend up to 3 x 2-1/2" buttons (get custom 2-1/2" buttons here)
Also suitable for all button sizes smaller than 2-1/2"

** Do not use capsules for button magnets (especially ceramic magnets) because they will magnet themselves to the inside of the vending machine!**

If you have absolutely any questions about our vending machines or any of our other products, please contact us! We're always here to help with any button-related inquiries :)

Happy button making!

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The Great Outdoors: 3" Diamond Shaped Custom Buttons for Axis Gear December 13 2016

These custom 3" Diamond Buttons are for Axis Gear, a company specializing in marketing and promotional products for both charity & athletic sporting events.

3" Diamond & Square Custom Buttons & Magnets

These 3" buttons (as all of our custom diamond shaped products) are also available as a square. The large size also makes for really great custom fridge magnets, which can be made as both a diamond and square too!

3" Diamond & Square Button Making Parts & Supplies

To makes this size and shape of button yourself, all you need is a 3" square hand press (Model 3030) which is available as a start-up kit with with either 500 X Everything for Pinback Button or 500 X Everything for Peel n' Stick Magnet Parts :) Parts & Supplies for this machine can all be found here.

Check out Axis Gear on Social Media

Website: axisgear.ca
Instagram: @axisgear
Facebook: @axisgearco

Thanks for using custom buttons to get your message out there, Axis Gear! Awesome job on creating a gorgeous design for an uncommon button size and shape :)

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New Video: Button Rocket Vending Machine December 08 2016

The Automatic Button Vending Machine is an ideal solution for button producers looking to have their products in stores and in the public eye. The sharp design of this simple to use and maintain button dispenser allows you to keep on producing buttons (or take a break) whilst your buttons are out there selling themselves!

STANDARD FEATURES OF THE AUTOMATIC BUTTON ROCKET VENDING MACHINE

- Tubular lock included on lid and cash box door
- Made of solid cast aluminum and zinc
- Takes 1" capsules which can hold up to four 1" Round Lockpin Buttons
- Coin mechanism with built in security measuring both width and size of a coin
- High security easy access money bag with 800 coin capacity
- Straight drop through product chute

HOW TO OPERATE THE BUTTON ROCKET VENDING MACHINE

Want to know the basics of the Button Rocket Vending Machine before you decide if it's the machine for you? Look no further :)

Here's a video from The Button Guy's YouTube Channel on How to Operate the Button Rocket Vending Machine! Check out the entire YouTube channel for a giant collection of How-To Videos and neat button making tips and tricks!

COIN MECHANISMS

The Button Rocket Vending Machine comes with one coin mechanism, but don't sweat it, if you decide you want to get another size:) Additional coin mechanisms for the The Button Rocket are available in the following sizes:

1 x 25 cents (1 quarter), 2 x 25 cents (2 quarters), 1 x $1 ($1 coin Canadian), 1 x $2 ($2 coin Canadian), Token Vend (1 x 0.984" token), Free Vend (Just turn handle - no coin).

CUSTOM BUTTONS READY FOR THE VENDING MACHINE

Love the idea of a button vending machine, but don't have the time to press all those buttons yourself? Not only do we make custom buttons, and other fun custom products, we also do custom buttons packed in capsules that are ready to vend! SO EASY :)

If you have any questions about button vending machines, or anything button-related for that matter, don't hesitate to get in touch :) Reach us at 416-204-1984.

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Custom Crafty Buttons for City of Craft December 06 2016

It's the most wonderful time of the year because City of Craft is almost here!

City of Craft is a collective of arts organizers focused on fostering an awesome Toronto crafting community, and supporting independent craft businesses (take a look at the entire vendor line-up here!)

For the past 10 years, City of Craft has put on Toronto's largest independently-run, juried craft show. Not only are there 60+ vendors, but also craft installations, workshops and other craft-related programming.

Logo and designs for City of Craft X: Handmade Decade created by Doublenaut

If you're thinking of checking out City of Craft X: Handmade Decade, the show runs from December 9th, 10th, & 11th. Event details can be found below, or on the City of Craft Website. If you're lucky, you may even get a custom button of your own!

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Record Label Buttons for Arbutus Records! December 02 2016

These 1" round custom record label buttons were made for Arbutus Records, a Montreal label that's been around since 2007. They're home to a bunch of really amazing artists who represent a variety of music genres.

 The label started out by recording their friends, many of whom are still signed with Arbutus Records today. They pride themselves on being accessible and inclusive, values that we at People Power Press also take to heart.

These 1" Round Record Label Buttons are really striking, and the geometric logo looks like it was destined to be on a button!

SPEAKING OF MUSIC...

If you're in the market for some band buttons, record label buttons, or make music of any kind, check out our Lyric Video and Custom Button Bundles ! These bundles are PERFECT-O for any band, musician, or singer-songwriter whose looking for some swag that won't break the bank :)

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New Video: How to Avoid Button Maker Jams December 01 2016

Sometimes when making buttons, you run into a jam.

One video we posted a while ago gave step-by-step instructions on how to un-jam a hand press that has something stuck in it. Click through the link to watch the video on The Button Guy YouTube Channel.

Though it's great to know how to un-jam a button maker, it's also really handy to know how to avoid button maker jams in the first place...

HOW TO AVOID BUTTON MAKER JAMS

The video below is full of tips and tricks on how to avoid button maker jams! It also highlights the most common things that cause a button maker jam, so that you can avoid them from the get-go.

HOW TO AVOID BUTTON MAKER JAMS: TIPS & TRICKS FROM THE VIDEO

1. Make sure you only use 1 shell or collet at a time. They like to stick together

2. Only use 1 mylar at a time. They tend to be very easily affected by static and cling together like nobody's business

3. Only use paper that is 28lbs or less. (regular old photocopy paper is actually the best paper to use!)

4. Keep your machine well lubricated! Lubricant for button makers is really inexpensive, and comes in a tube that will last for decades

5. Stick to artwork that is drawn on paper, or printed out. Though making a 3-D collage on your button shell might look nifty, your button maker prefers nice flat artwork

BUTTON MAKER MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR SERVICES

Even if you're careful to not jam your button maker, accidents do happen. If you've tried un-jamming you button maker with no success, we do also offer maintenance and repair services!

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Tis' the Season with Button Greeting Cards November 30 2016

Receiving a holiday greeting card in the mail is a nice little pick-me-up, especially on a stormy winter day.

Be the best card-giver you can be this season with the People Power Press Holiday Button Greeting Card Collection! Let the holiday cheer stay with your friends, co-workers, and loved one long after they open the envelope :)

Holiday Button Greeting Cards are the cards that keep on giving. Each card comes with a super cute button that will get anyone into the holiday spirit!

We've got a whole range of Holiday Button Greeting Card designs too. There's something perfect for darling grandma, your bestie, or the acquaintance that you only sort-a know.

Pictured above are Merry Christmas Sweater, Happy Holidays Wreath, and Too Hip for the Holidays. There are a range of different button designs available with each card, so check out the product pages for all off the possibilities!

Too Hip for the Holidays Pin Packs

If you think the Too Hip for the Holidays Cards are as wonderful and silly as we do, we've got some good news: All of the button designs are available as single buttons AND as 5 button pin packs too :)

Swing by the shop at 3095 Dundas Street West, or shop online at peoplepowerpress.org for all of your holiday button needs!

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Buttons for a Cause: Together Project November 28 2016

Colourful, inclusive, and full of joy, these custom buttons for a cause really speak to the work being done by Together Project.

Together Project matches Government Assisted Refugees with volunteer "Welcome Groups" who help newcomer families get their barrings in a brand new country.

These buttons for a cause are 2" Round, a size that is big enough for a nice sized logo, but small enough to comfortably wear day-to-day.

Their slick design of bright colours on a white background really makes a statement, don't ya think?

Thanks for all the great work you do, Together Project!

If you're interested in getting involved, check out how you can volunteer, donate, or create a Welcome Group of your own with friends or family :)

PEOPLE POWER AWARDS: INSPIRING POSITIVE CHANGE WITH BUTTONS!

Have an awesome cause of your own? Consider filling out a 2017 Nomination Form for the People Power Award, an annual award recognizing excellence in grassroots campaigning and inspiring positive change with buttons! 

Check out more details at peoplepowerawards.com !

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The People Power Press 2016 Holiday Gift Guide November 25 2016

The holidays are almost here and at People Power Press we've got you covered! With crafty projects, personalized presents, and fun & frugal ideas, there's something for everyone on your list!

	Get into the festive button making spirit with the Flex3000 Holiday Kit from People Power Press! The kit includes a FLEX3000 3" button making machine, 3" Round Rotary Cutter, 100 x 3" complete button and 10x complete magnet parts PLUS 100 x 3" Round Holiday Themed Pre-Cut Art (50 full colour + 50 colour-your-own). The perfect gift to kickstart a whole world of button making possibilities!
	'Tis the the season to be jolly ... making buttons! This teeny tiny holiday token making kit is great for crafting gifts for the minimalist on your list or creating collections of seasonally awesome fridge magnets for friend and family. *Available for a limited time only* The 7/8" Button Holiday Kit includes a Tecre 875 Model Button Handpress, 500 complete parts each for making spring-lock pin buttons, PLUS 100 pieces of pre-cut holiday artwork (50 full colour and 50 colour-your-own).
	Not sure what the button enthusiast on your list might like best? How about a People Power Press Gift Card! Virtual gift cards can be used on our Canadian and USA sites and in our Toronto showroom for button making parts, custom buttons, machine rentals* and more! They are available in a wide range of amounts and sure to please! (*Button machines can be rented in our Toronto Shop or Shipped anywhere! Rental period includes shipping time.)

	Now you can turn your family photos, art, and memories into Personalized Tree Ornaments! Perfect for commemorating parties, special Christmases, and events like family reunions! Design your own or send us your ideas and photos and have one of our talented Designers create something special for you. Bring your family or your pals into our Toronto Shop too to make your own at our Button Bar! The possibilities are endless!
	Change it, swap it, click it, it's Magnetic Button Jewelry! 1" flat-back button charms can be changed to go with any look! Delight your favorite fashionista with a set of custom charms created just for them or choose from our trendy designs! Also a perfect gift for that special someone with a 1" Button Maker!
	For loved ones near and far, send a smile with Button Greeting Cards! Available in fun and festive designs - give them a greeting AND a button they can wear!

	Show them you know them! Book and music lovers, cyclists, hipsters and coffee connoisseurs will be delighted by their very own Pin Pack, with all kinds of themes for all kinds of interests! Perfect for stocking stuffers or secret santas too!
	Silly face dry erase buttons, magnets and ornaments are fun for kids and kids-at-heart! Draw with dry erase markers on top of festive designs, wear and display, then erase them and do it all over again!
	Looking for a gift for a bookworm, writer, artist or vintage lover? We're breathing new life into old library books with our collection of Up-cycled Library Notebooks and Sketchbooks. Made with library books that have been diverted from landfill, these books are hardcover, coil bound, and use "Tree Free" recycled paper. Available in large and small sizes, we can even make a custom one out of your favorite book! Find them online email us for more details!

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