Which button maker, badge machine or pin maker would you recommend for a young artist.

Hi Button Guy,   I’m a young artist and lately I have had customers asking for customized   buttons. I really like the idea but I’m not totally sure on where to begin, I   don’t have that much money to spend on a machine and supplies at the moment.   Out of the machines you have tried, which would recommend for a first timer   on a budget? Also, what companies do you recommend getting the supplies from?  Julieann – Indiana

Hi Julieann

People Power Press does have a good starter machine called a T150   I have tested this kit.  It’s cheap, works well,  But read on!!

As a designer or as an artist, buttons are a great way for getting income, promoting your projects and creating a following. Whilst your designs and style will change and develop over the years, you will be able to use buttons at gallery openings, for website promotion, even as a calling cards or business cards.  The low cost of buttons means if somebody picks up one of your creations and pays $2, $1.90 is your cost excluding labor.  Sometimes it’s better to ask for a donation, then you’ll get $5 or even $25.  Few products offer that kind of margin.  But the most important thing? – People just like buttons.

I would actually recommend not getting the above starter kit unless you are in a real hurry.  I would wait, save your cash and get an all metal button maker that takes low cost, standard button parts.  The starter kit mentioned above will make buttons for a few years but an all metal machine will make buttons for a lifetime – your kids could use it!!

Avoid Button Makers with plastic parts, avoid button makers made in China (expensive parts often with ugly plastic backs), avoid Badge a Minit (expensive parts, starter kits often fail).

Hope it helps!
The Button Guy