About button making
The Library Makerspace has two button makers available for LCC students and staff to use on site. You must have a tutorial before using the button maker on your own. Ask at the Research Help desk to arrange a tutorial, or email Claire at dannenbaumc@lanecc.edu to arrange.
Buttons come in two sizes:
- 1.5” buttons (small)
- 2.25” buttons (large)
After the tutorial, you will receive 4 free blank buttons that work with our button machines. You are free to use these anytime. Limit of 4 buttons per student per term, please.
We are no longer able to supply unlimited buttons for clubs or campus promotions. Thanks for your understanding!
Step-by-step instructions
Make a groovy pin button in 5 easy steps! — Be sure to watch your fingers!
Gather the pieces you need to make a button pin.
- Design your pin. Use either the smaller (1.5”) or larger (2.5”) paper circles as your template. Keep the design close to the inner circle edge so you will not lose the edge of your design in the press.
- Cut your design to fit the press. Use either the smaller or larger circle cutter depending on the size pin you are making. (To remove cut design, push up on metal cylinder under the cutter.)
- Use Platform A of the button press to sandwich the top pieces. On Platform A stack the design of your button in this order:
- Smooth shell on bottom (facing up, like image below)
- Design in middle (facing up)
- Mylar sheet on top
Rotate Platform A under the lever, pull lever toward you and press the pieces together. Press slowly and firmly to get a good fit! Release the handle.
- Use Platform B to attach the pin back to your button design. On Platform B, place the pin back with the pin back down. Rotate the platform under the lever and press the two pieces together. Again, press slowly and firmly to get a good fit! Release the handle.
- Rotate the base and retrieve your fabulous pin. Wear it with joy!