Youtube Instagram Pinterest Facebook Tiktok

How to Make Buttons: The Ultimate Crafter’s Guide

finished buttons with the different sayings and the title reads "how to make buttons"
Jump to Instructions

One of my favorite toys growing up was actually a button making machine. I got it as part of a focus group and loved making my own pins. They’re surprisingly easy to make, and it’s so much fun coming up with new ideas for them in my Nashville studio!

I have also made it even easier by including free printable button templates of various sizes so you can make sure your design fits perfectly. There is also a link to the digital version to edit it directly in Canva. In this guide, I am sharing my professional tips on avoiding jams and choosing the best paper weight so you can get a professional result every time.

Table of Contents

Note: Some links in this post may contain affiliate links, which means at no cost to you, I may earn a commission.

Get the latest DIY tutorials, reviews, and crafting updates

You'll never be spammed and can unsubscribe at any time

Don’t forget to pin it so you can easily come back to it later!

finished buttons of different sizes with the different sayings and the title reads "how to make buttons, abcrafty.com"

Materials to Make Buttons

A
Happizza Button Maker Machine Multiple Sizes, Pin Maker Machine 1+1.25+2.25 inch, Interchangeable Button-Models Badge Button Press Machine with 300 Sets 25+32+58mm Button Maker Supplies&Circle Cutter
Happizza Button Maker Machine Multiple Sizes, Pin Maker Machine 1+1.25+2.25 inch, Interchangeable Button-Models Badge Button Press Machine with 300 Sets 25+32+58mm Button Maker Supplies&Circle Cutter
3 Inch Button Maker Machine Complete Starter Kit
3 Inch Button Maker Machine Complete Starter Kit
OLFA 18mm Rotary Circle Cutter (CMP-3) - Adjustable Rotary Blade Cutter w/Ratchet Handle Cuts Perfect Circles for Crafts, Sewing, Quilting, Replacement Blade: RB18-2
OLFA 18mm Rotary Circle Cutter (CMP-3) - Adjustable Rotary Blade Cutter w/Ratchet Handle Cuts Perfect Circles for Crafts, Sewing, Quilting, Replacement Blade: RB18-2
BEAMNOVA 100 Sets 37mm / 1.46 in (Approx. 1-1/2 inch) Metal Button Supplies Blanks, for Round Pin Maker Machine, Matte Metallic Back, Hand Press Badge Making Parts
BEAMNOVA 100 Sets 37mm / 1.46 in (Approx. 1-1/2 inch) Metal Button Supplies Blanks, for Round Pin Maker Machine, Matte Metallic Back, Hand Press Badge Making Parts

Specialist Insight: Why Paper Weight Matters

The most common question I get is about the best paper for button making. Many people assume that a thicker cardstock will make a higher quality pin, but that’s actually a mistake that leads to a lot of frustration.

I’ve found that basic printer paper, typically 20lb to 24lb, is the “sweet spot” for almost every machine. When you have a stack that includes the base, backing, your design, and the plastic mylar, every tiny bit of thickness matters. If the paper is too thick, the machine won’t be able to wrap the edges properly, and you’ll end up with a jammed lever or a button that eventually pops apart.

If you want a more vibrant look, I suggest using a high-quality inkjet paper that is still thin. Just make sure it’s not the heavy “premium” photo paper. I’ve seen many buttons get ruined by trying to force thick cardstock through the machines, so sticking to a lighter weight is my top recommendation for a professional result.

Free Printable Button Template

Download this button template to make it easy to design your buttons. There are templates for the most common sizes of button makers – 1 inch, 1.25 inch, 1.5 inch, 2.25 inch. They also include a “safe zone” marker so your design doesn’t get cut off.

You can download it below or from the shop.

Pro Tip: When you print, ensure your settings are set to “Full Size” so the circles fit your machine perfectly.

image of a 1.25 inch button template with guide lines

Download the Free
Button Template

We’re committed to your privacy. AB Crafty uses the information you provide to contact you about relevant content and products. You may unsubscribe from these communications at any time.

You May Also Like...

Video Instructions

Subscribe to Channel

How to Make Buttons (The Tutorial)

Create Your Button Design

The first step in how to make buttons is designing them. I’ve made a free printable template to make the process super easy. The template has different sizes, depending on the size of your button maker.

You can either print out the template and draw directly on it or I’ve also included a link to the digital template within Canva.

The yellow dotted line shows what will be included on the button face – anything outside of the line will be cut off. The line is simply a guide so be sure to delete it before you print the page!

Note: When printing – print at full size, without margins.

screenshot of Canva showing the AB Crafty button template with one of the buttons filled in with the AB Crafty logo

Print and Cut the Button Designs

After you make your design, delete the yellow line and print the page at full size, without margins.

Then use a punch or circle cutter (such as this one) to cut out your button designs.

using a button punch to cut out the AB Crafty logo from a piece of paper with the logo printed across
using a circle cutter to cut out the AB crafty logo from a piece of paper on a cutting mat

Get the latest DIY tutorials, reviews, and crafting updates

You'll never be spammed and can unsubscribe at any time

Press the Buttons

You’ll need a button maker for this next step. This the one I’m using, but I’ve also tested multiple machines and they all work similarly (here’s my full button maker guide). Some have a rotating base like this one and others have a base that you slide under the pressing mechanism, such as this one.

To start, place the pin base (the plain disc) on side one of the machine.

Note: When you get a button machine, it should come with all the pieces to make the buttons, but just in case you can order additional pieces. There are 3 parts – the button base, the mylar circle, and the pin backing.

placing the button base onto the button maker
pointing to the button base placed into the button making machine

Then place your cut out button design on top.

Note: You’ll notice lines on sides – use those to center your design.

placing the cut out AB Crafty logo into the button maker

Next, place the clear plastic mylar circle on top.

Pro Tip: The mylar circles tend to easily stick together so “flick” the edge to separate them more easily. If they’re stuck together, it can jam the machine or the machine won’t pick up the pieces properly.

holding the mylar circle over a hand
placing the mylar circle on top of the cut out AB Crafty logo in the button making machine

If you’re using a rotating machine like this one, rotate the base so that your design is under the pressing mechanism.

If you’re using a sliding machine, slide it under the mechanism (this is the same as the one in the second image).

pushing the side 1 side of the button maker to spin the base
pushing the left side of the button press to push the image under the machine

Hold the base in place and pull down on the lever.

Note: On most button making machines, you don’t need to pull the lever all the way down. Pull it just until you feel resistance.

If you feel too much resistance, don’t force the lever (see my troubleshooting tips below for how to fix a jam)

pressing down on the button press

Next, take one of the pin backings. Notice there are two different sides – one has the pin and the other will have a zig-zag wire or sometimes a metal bar. You want to have the pin side facing down and the zig-zag or bar facing up.

showing the pin back part of the button
holding the back piece of a button showing the zigzag backing

Then place it into side 2 of the machine. Again, use the lines on the machine to center the backing.

Note: Side 2 will be the side that’s available since side 1 will be under the pressing mechanism.

pointing to the lines etched on the sides of the button making machine

Then rotate the base (or slide it if using a sliding button machine) so that the backing goes under the pressing mechanism.

pushing side 2 of the button maker to make the base spin
pushing the right side into the center of the button press

Just as before, pull down on the lever just until you feel resistance.

pushing down on the handle of the blue button press

Then rotate (or slide) the base to reveal your button.

turning the button maker base to show the finished button with the AB Crafty logo

Remove the button from the machine and pin it to whatever you’d like!

If you make your own buttons, I’d love to see them. Tag me on Instagram @ab.crafty!

Get the latest DIY tutorials, reviews, and crafting updates

You'll never be spammed and can unsubscribe at any time

holding the finished button with the AB Crafty logo

I absolutely love making buttons and creating new designs. For the Friends fans out there, I made a “Pivot!” button and for the Schitt’s Creek fans, I made an “Ew, David” and “Fold in the Cheese” button.

Another great pin to make if you happen to be attending a bachelorette party is a “Buy the Bride a Drink” Venmo pin – similar to the bracelets I made.

finished homemade buttons with the different sayings, including an "ew, david" button, a "pivot!" button with a couch, "fold in the cheese" button with a cheese block, and buttons with "wtf" "lol" and "nope" and the AB Crafty logo

Why is my Button Maker Jamming?

If the lever feels stuck or it’s unusually hard to pull, don’t force it. This usually happens for one of three reasons. You might have accidentally used two pieces of Mylar, as they tend to stick together, or your paper is simply too thick for the machine to crimp properly. While I haven’t run into this yet, the machine might also need a bit of lubrication on the sliding parts to keep it moving smoothly. If it’s truly jammed, it’s best to gently wiggle the pieces out rather than pulling harder, which could bend the internal mechanism.

With the plastic mylar circles, they tend to stick together so make sure there’s only one by “flicking” the edge to separate them.

How to Align Your Button Designs Perfectly

Sometimes with sliding machines, the pin backing can twist in the mechanism, which causes the final design to be at an angle. This is a common frustration in my craft studio because it means that when you pin it on a bag or jacket, the design won’t be facing up.

To fix this once and for all, I have a simple trick using a permanent marker. First, make a button as you normally would, but don’t take it out of the machine once it is finished. While the button is still in the mold, use a Sharpie to mark the center points of the design on the sides of the machine.

For every button you make after that, you can simply line up the pin backing with those marks. This ensures that your alignment is perfect every single time without any guesswork.

using a sharpie to mark the side of a 1 inch button machine

How to Make Buttons of Different Sizes

If you want to make buttons of different sizes, you’ll need either multiple button makers or get a button maker that can make multiple sizes. For example, in my Nashville studio I have this one which can make a 1 inch, 1.25 inch, and a 2.25 inch button. I simply change out the molds to switch button sizes.

If you are looking for a machine that offers this flexibility, I have put together a full list of the button makers I recommend in my Button Maker Guide.

finished buttons of different sizes with the different sayings
two button makers with different sized pins with the AB Crafty logo around them

How to Make Buttons Without a Machine

The easiest way to make buttons without a machine is to get fillable plastic buttons such as these. These usually come with two pieces, a clear front and a back piece that has the pin already attached.

Simply cut out your design and place it face down into the front piece, then snap the back part on. They aren’t as professional as the metal buttons I make in my craft studio, but if you want to make some easy pins quickly or on a budget, this is the way to go. If you need some inspiration for what to put inside, check out this list of cool designs to draw.

Chinco 50 Pack Acrylic Button Pins Badge Clear Custom Button Pins Kit Blank Photo Bulk Make Your Own Buttons for DIY Craft Supplies(1.8 Inch)7%
Chinco 50 Pack Acrylic Button Pins Badge Clear Custom Button Pins Kit Blank Photo Bulk Make Your Own Buttons for DIY Craft Supplies(1.8 Inch)
$14.99 ($0.30 / count)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best paper weight for button making?

I’v found that standard printer paper, between 20lb and 24lb, works best in my craft studio. If your paper is too thick, such as a heavy cardstock, the machine won’t be able to crimp the edges, which often leads to a jam.

Why is my button maker not crimping the Mylar?

This usually happens because you have accidentally used two pieces of plastic Mylar. They are very thin and tend to stick together. I always suggest flicking the edge of the stack with your thumb to ensure you only have one layer before you press your button.

Can I use photo paper for buttons?

You can use photo paper as long as it is a thin variety. I suggest avoiding “premium” or “heavy” photo paper because the extra thickness makes it difficult for the machine to seal the edges properly. If you want a glossy look, standard paper with the included Mylar usually provides the best result.

How do I fix a jammed button machine?

If the lever is stuck, don’t force it. I have found that gently wiggling the top die, carefully removing the components, or checking for a double layer of Mylar usually solves the problem. I also recommend a tiny bit of silicone lubricant on the sliding parts once every few months to keep everything moving smoothly.

Do I need a different machine for every button size?

It depends on the model. Some machines have fixed molds, while others allow you to swap out the dies to make different sizes. I have listed my top recommendations for versatile machines in my Button Maker Guide.

More Crafts to Try

Get the latest DIY tutorials, reviews, and crafting updates

You'll never be spammed and can unsubscribe at any time

finished buttons of different sizes with the different sayings and the title reads "how to make buttons, abcrafty.com"

How to Make Professional Buttons

I have shared my professional process for making custom buttons in my craft studio. This guide covers how to use my free templates, avoid common jams, and choose the right paper weight for a perfect result every time.
Yield 1 Button
Print Pin Share Tweet
Project Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes

Materials
  

  • 1 Button Maker
  • Button Template
  • Circle Cutter or Punch
  • 20lb Printer Paper
  • Button Base and Backing and Plastic Cover that comes with the Button Make

Equipment

  • 1 Scissors or Circle Cutter

Instructions
 

Make the Button Design

  • Use my free template to create your design. Ensure your main design stays within the 'safe zone' and print on 20lb basic printer paper for the best results. I've also included a link to the digital template within Canva.
    Button Template
    screenshot of Canva showing the AB Crafty button template with one of the buttons filled in with the AB Crafty logo
  • Cut out your designs using a circle punch or rotary cutter (such as this one). A precise, clean edge is necessary for the machine to tuck the paper under the metal shell properly.
    Circle Cutter or Punch, 20lb Printer Paper
    using a button punch to cut out the AB Crafty logo from a piece of paper with the logo printed across

Press the Buttons

  • Place the metal shell, your design, and one layer of Mylar into Side 1 of the machine. I always check to make sure I haven't grabbed two pieces of Mylar by mistake
    Button Base and Backing and Plastic Cover that comes with the Button Make, 1 Button Maker
    pointing to the button base placed into the button making machine
  • Rotate the machine and pull the lever down firmly to crimp the shell, paper, and Mylar together. The pieces will stay in the top die of the machine.
    pressing down on the button press
  • Place the pin backing into Side 2, ensuring it is aligned with the top of your design. Rotate the machine base and pull the lever again to finish your button.
    holding the finished button with the AB Crafty logo

Notes

Download the button template here for free to make your own button designs.
Note: If the lever feels stuck, don't force it. This is usually caused by paper that is too thick or a double layer of Mylar. I suggest using a tiny bit of silicone lubricant on the sliding parts of your machine once every few months to keep everything moving smoothly.
Keyword Accessory, Button, Pin
Picture of Daniela Kretchmer

Daniela Kretchmer

Daniela is a lifelong crafter who loves to share her passion for crafting. Through classes or learning on her own, she likes to say she'll do pretty much any craft aside from scrapbooking. Her current personal obsessions include garden crafts, felting, and spinning yarn.

More Craft Projects and Ideas

8 thoughts on “How to Make Buttons: The Ultimate Crafter’s Guide”

  1. Samantha

    Hi! The link to the Canva template just takes you to the Canva home time and not to an actual template. Is there any way to find this for 2.25″ badges?

    Thanks!

    Reply
    1. Daniela

      Hi, be sure to jump to the section to download the template and link to the Canva template – you’ll need to input your email and then it will send you to the template.
      I’ve included templates for 2.25″ buttons.

      Reply
    1. Daniela

      You’ll want to upload the image to Canva (I personally just drag and drop to the left bar). You can also go to ‘uploads’ and click ‘upload files’

      Reply
  4. carlos bravo

    is there any way you can make a tutorial video on how to size on Canva it would be extremly helpful. I tried to get rid of the yellow dotted line but it deletes the full circle template. ='(

    Reply
    1. Daniela

      Make sure you’re only selecting the yellow circle when you hover over it. If you put the cursor in the middle of the circle, it should only highlight the yellow circle and not the outline.

      Reply

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Rating




AB Crafty's Coin Purse Pattern for Felted Coin Purse
Download
image of a 1.25 inch button template with guide lines
Go to Canva Template
Download the PDF