Best Button Makers for DIY Crafters and Small Businesses
The VEVOR 1000-Piece Button Maker Kit is our top pick for most crafters because it includes a sturdy 2.2 inch press and all the materials needed to create 1000 pins. Its main advantage is the high capacity, which offers the lowest cost per button. The main limitation is its bulkier size, which makes it less portable than smaller presses.
Button makers are fun tools that let you turn artwork, photos, and slogans into wearable pins, magnets, or keychains. Whether you are a hobbyist or run a small craft business, choosing the right button maker depends on the button size you want and how many you plan to produce.
We compared features, capacity, and user feedback to help you pick a reliable machine. Our roundup includes options for beginners and more advanced users, focusing on real products available on Amazon.
The best picks, ranked
VEVOR Button Maker 1000-Piece Kit 2.2 Inch
This complete kit includes a heavy-duty 2.2 inch button press and enough parts to create 1000 buttons. Users report that the press feels solid and produces crisp, even edges. The included circle cutter and assembly tools make it easy to get started right out of the box.
Pros
- High capacity provides low cost per button
- All-inclusive kit saves time and money
- Solid metal construction for durability
Cons
- Large footprint takes up counter space
- Not portable due to weight and size
American Button Machines 2.25 Inch Button Press
This tabletop press from a trusted brand is built for frequent use. It features a one-piece steel body and precision dies that produce consistent results. Owners report smooth operation and minimal jamming, even after hundreds of presses.
Pros
- Durable all-steel construction
- Precision alignment for consistent buttons
- Easy to operate with one hand
Cons
- Button parts sold separately
- Higher initial investment
Rexel 1.25 Inch Button Maker Kit
This small-format button maker is perfect for children and beginners. It creates 1.25 inch buttons, which are ideal for name tags or small crafts. The kit includes a simple press and enough parts for 50 buttons. Safety features make it a good choice for supervised projects.
Pros
- Easy enough for children to use
- Compact and portable
- Low-cost entry point
Cons
- Small button size limits uses
- Plastic parts may not withstand heavy use
Better Button 2.25 Inch Starter Kit
This starter kit offers a solid balance of quality and price. It includes a durable hand press and 250 button parts, giving you enough materials to complete several projects. Users appreciate the clear instructions and the ability to order additional parts easily.
Pros
- Reasonable price for the included materials
- Quality press with metal gears
- Parts are readily available
Cons
- Not as heavy-duty as pro models
- Some users find the handle grip slightly small
Crafty Button 2.25 Inch Heavy Duty Press
Designed for semi-professional use, this press features a robust frame and a large lever for increased leverage. It can handle hours of continuous pressing. The package includes a bonus set of 500 button parts, making it a great value for bulk projects.
Pros
- Sturdy construction reduces wobble
- High parts count for bulk production
- Smooth pressing action
Cons
- Requires ample workspace
- Handle requires some effort for each press
American Button Machines 1.25 Inch Mini Press
This mini press from a reputable brand is perfect for making small buttons quickly. It features a compact design that fits on a desktop. The press is built with the same quality as larger models, ensuring many years of use.
Pros
- Compact and space-saving
- Precision dies for clean edges
- Durable construction
Cons
- Parts not included
- Limited to small button size
Button Maker 0.75 Inch Pin Badge Machine
This unique machine creates tiny 0.75 inch buttons, perfect for delicate crafts or as accents on other projects. The press is manual and very easy to use. While parts are more limited, the small size allows for creative uses like game pieces or jewelry.
Pros
- Unique size for creative projects
- Portable and lightweight
- Complete kit with parts
Cons
- Very small buttons may be hard to handle
- Less versatile than larger sizes
What matters most
How they compare
| # | Model | Button Size | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | VEVOR Button Maker 1000-Piece Kit 2.2 Inch | 2.2 inch (58 mm) | Most crafters and small businesses | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | American Button Machines 2.25 Inch Button Press | 2.25 inch (57 mm) | Crafters wanting a professional-grade press | 9.1 | Check price |
| 3 | Rexel 1.25 Inch Button Maker Kit | 1.25 inch (32 mm) | Kids and beginner crafters | 8.8 | Check price |
| 4 | Better Button 2.25 Inch Starter Kit | 2.25 inch (57 mm) | Cost-conscious hobbyists | 8.9 | Check price |
| 5 | Crafty Button 2.25 Inch Heavy Duty Press | 2.25 inch (57 mm) | Creating large batches | 8.6 | Check price |
| 6 | American Button Machines 1.25 Inch Mini Press | 1.25 inch (32 mm) | Making small buttons in bulk | 8.7 | Check price |
| 7 | Button Maker 0.75 Inch Pin Badge Machine | 0.75 inch (19 mm) | Crafting tiny pins for gifts | 8.0 | Check price |
Frequently asked questions
What is the best button maker for a beginner?
The Rexel 1.25 Inch Button Maker Kit is a great choice for beginners, especially for kids. It is simple to use and includes all necessary parts. However, if you are an adult wanting a standard 2.25 inch button, the VEVOR kit provides everything you need and is easy to learn.
Can I make magnets with a button maker?
Yes, most button makers can be used to make magnets. You need to purchase magnetic backings instead of pin backs. Many kits offer magnetic backings as an option or you can buy them separately. The process is the same as making a pin button.
How many buttons can I make with a button maker?
The number depends on the kit and how many parts you have. Kits typically include between 50 and 1000 parts. If you buy a press only, you can purchase parts in bulk and make as many as you want, limited only by your materials and effort.
What materials do I need to make buttons?
To make a button, you need a button shell (metal front), a mylar clear plastic cover, a paper or fabric design, and a backing (pin or magnet). These parts are included in starter kits. You also need a circle cutter to cut your design to the right size.
Are button makers safe for children?
Button makers can be safe for children under adult supervision. The pressing action requires hand strength and can pinch fingers. Some kits are designed for kids, like the Rexel 1.25 inch, which has a simple twist action. Always supervise young children and teach them proper use.
How do I use a button maker?
First, cut your design to the correct size with the circle cutter. Then, place the design into the press along with the button shell and mylar. Finally, press the handle to shape the button. The exact steps vary by model, but all kits come with instructions.
Can I make buttons of different sizes with one machine?
No, each button maker is designed for a specific size. You need a separate press for each button diameter. If you want multiple sizes, you may need to buy multiple machines or choose a model that allows die changes, but those are less common.
What is the difference between a button press and a button maker?
There is no difference; the terms are used interchangeably. Both refer to a machine that presses button components together. Some kits include all parts, while others are just the press. Always check what is included in the package.
How do I clean and maintain my button maker?
Keep your button maker clean by wiping it with a dry cloth after use. Avoid using water or solvents as they can damage the components. Lubricate moving parts occasionally with a light machine oil to ensure smooth operation. Store it in a dry place to prevent rust.
Can I use a button maker to make keychains?
Yes, you can make keychains by using a keychain attachment instead of a pin backing. Some kits include keychain parts, or you can buy them separately. The process is the same, but you will need to attach the keychain ring to the button.
Final word
For most people, the VEVOR 1000-Piece Kit is the smartest buy because it offers a high-quality press and all the materials you need to start making buttons immediately. If you plan to produce buttons professionally or in high volume, invest in the American Button Machines 2.25 Inch Press for its durability and precision.
