The Button Blog - American Button Machines — Button Making

Did you know American Button Machines has available not one but two different types of fabric button machines? Anyone who has done research for fabric buttons knows all about the Red-n-Black Machine. But few of you are aware of the Green Machine. This beauty has been in the shadow of her super star, 2nd cousin twice removed, far too long. It is high time she steps in front to showcase her talents. The Green Machine is sold as a kit which includes the button maker, the die size of your choice and 144 large wire eyelet button sets. Since the...

Where can I find one button machine that makes different size buttons? That’s a questions we get asked almost on a daily basis; sometimes twice in one day. So why don’t we just make one? There are actually a few very good reasons. Allow me to share with you some quality insider information.   First, all machines that incorporate the ability to change dies are manufactured in China and do not conform to industry standard sized buttons found in the USA. Second, the die is the most expensive part of any button machine. So if your goal is to save...

So what button making product is the least known to most button makers? In a single word, Coasters! Making your own custom coaster button is fun and very easy to do! All you need are 3 items: 1. 3.5" Button Maker 2. 3.5" Coaster Button Set 3. 3.5" Coaster Insert So gather everything you need and follow this step-by-step tutorial to guide you through the process. How to Make a Button Coaster: Step 1: Familiarize yourself with the parts of the coaster button. The parts consist of: Mylar, Front Shell, Flat Back and Adhesive Backed Cork. You can purchase the...

Last week I offered several suggestions for putting your Metal Craft Punch to good use. This nifty little gadget is so versatile that I couldn’t fit all of my ideas in one post. So I’m back again this week with a couple more ideas. Much like threading decorative ribbon through a Christmas ornament, you can again use one of the smaller bits to make a hole for threading a short beaded chain. Some of you are probably asking, what on earth for… so it can be hung as a monogrammed rear view mirror charm. Please, enough of the genius talk; you’re...

So, if you’ve got the Metal Craft Punch that you purchased last year with the Christmas Ornament Kit or the Flashing Button Kit and you’re wondering how else to make use of it well we have a few more ideas for you. For starters, you can use one of the smaller bits (3/32”)  included with the Metal Craft Punch to make earrings. Starting with a 1” shell (that is a nice size for earrings, don’t you agree?) mylar & black plastic medallion back, crimp the button as usual. Next, fit the Metal Craft Punch with the 3/32 bit and punch...