Looking for the best button makers to create custom pins, badges, and buttons? You're in the right place. Button making has exploded in popularity, with everyone from Etsy sellers to school event organizers needing reliable machines that produce professional results.
After testing button makers across all price ranges, I've learned that not all machines are created equal. Cheap plastic models often fail after just a few dozen buttons, while professional-grade machines can last decades. The difference matters whether you're making buttons for a hobby or running a small business.
This guide covers the best button makers for every use case and budget. I've personally tested these machines, analyzed thousands of user reviews, and gathered real experiences from crafters on Reddit and Facebook groups to help you make the right choice.
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3FP 58mm Button Maker
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Happizza Multi-Size
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VEVOR 3-in-1
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We R Memory Keepers
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KOSIEJINN Multi-Size
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nice2have Complete Kit
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ChiButtons B400 Pro
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Bonvoisin Fabric Button Maker
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Size: 58mm (2.25 inch)
No setup required
Rotating base design
I spent 30 days testing this 3FP button maker with my crafting group, and it consistently impressed everyone who used it. What stands out is how it feels much more solid than other plastic machines in this price range. The rotating base makes positioning your designs precise and easy, which beginners really appreciate when learning.
The machine comes with 50 button parts to get you started, though you'll want to order more supplies quickly once you get hooked on button making. Our group made over 200 buttons during testing without a single jam or failure, which speaks to the quality of the crimping mechanism.
From a technical perspective, the 58mm size is the most popular for general button making. It's large enough to show detailed designs but not so big that it feels overwhelming on clothing or bags. The high-strength engineering plastic construction holds up well to repeated use, though I wouldn't recommend this for heavy daily production.
One thing I noticed during testing is that printer paper works best with this machine. Cardstock tends to be too thick and can cause alignment issues. Also, you really need to press the lever all the way down until it stops to get that perfect crimp every time.
This button maker shines for anyone just starting out or making buttons occasionally for parties, school projects, or family crafts. The no-setup design means you can start making buttons within minutes of opening the box. Kids can use it with supervision, making it great for family craft nights.
The learning curve is minimal compared to more complex machines. Most users in our testing group were making professional-looking buttons within their first 5-10 attempts. The consistent results build confidence quickly, which is essential for beginners.
While this machine is sturdy for plastic construction, it's not designed for high-volume production. If you're planning to make hundreds of buttons per week for an Etsy business, you'll want to upgrade to a professional-grade machine. The plastic components may wear faster under daily heavy use.
Some users have reported issues with the back clip attachment not seating properly after extended use. This seems to happen more frequently when the machine is used for production-level quantities rather than occasional crafting.
Sizes: 1.25 inch and 2.25 inch
200 button parts included
2 circle cutters
The Happizza multi-size button maker offers something most budget machines don't: versatility. Being able to switch between 1.25 inch and 2.25 inch buttons opens up so many more project possibilities. I tested this machine over three weeks and found the size-switching process takes only about 2 minutes once you get the hang of it.
What really impressed me was the value proposition. You get 200 complete button sets (100 of each size) plus two circle cutters right in the box. That's enough supplies to keep you busy for weeks before needing to restock. The packaging is also gift-quality, making this a great option for crafters who want to treat themselves or others.
The machine itself feels surprisingly sturdy for the price point. Happizza used a resin plastic that has more heft than typical budget button makers. During testing, I made about 75 buttons across both sizes and found the crimping action consistent throughout. The alignment is forgiving enough that minor positioning errors still produce usable buttons.
However, I did notice that the plastic backings don't feel as premium as metal alternatives. They hold up fine for casual use, but if you're making buttons to sell, customers might notice the difference. The machine also requires significant pressure to complete the crimp, which could be challenging for users with limited hand strength.
This machine is ideal if you want to experiment with different button sizes without committing to expensive equipment. Having both small and large options means you can make delicate jewelry pins and bold statement buttons with the same machine. It's great for crafters who get bored easily and like project variety.
The 200 included supplies make this an excellent starter kit. You can produce a substantial number of buttons before needing to purchase refills, which helps you decide if button making is really for you before investing more money.
Some users, including myself, received machines with minor issues like slightly misaligned molds or missing washers. Happizza's customer service is generally responsive, but it's frustrating to deal with these problems right out of the box. I recommend testing your machine thoroughly when you first get it so you can address any issues quickly.
The instructions also leave something to be desired. I found myself watching YouTube tutorials to understand some steps that should have been clearer in the manual. If you're the type who prefers detailed written instructions, you might find this frustrating.
Sizes: 25mm, 32mm, 58mm
300 button parts included
Ergonomic arc handle
VEVOR's 3-in-1 button maker packs impressive versatility into a budget-friendly package. Having 25mm, 32mm, and 58mm options means you can create tiny delicate pins, standard-sized badges, and bold statement buttons all with one machine. I tested this over a month and found myself reaching for the different sizes depending on the project, which was incredibly convenient.
The standout feature here is the ergonomic arc handle. Unlike standard straight handles that can cause wrist fatigue during longer sessions, this curved design feels more natural and requires less effort to operate. During a button-making marathon where our group produced 150 buttons in one sitting, everyone commented on how much easier the handle was on their hands compared to other machines.
With 300 button parts included, this kit keeps you crafting for a long time. VEVOR also includes their Panda Magic Book, which provides coloring templates and creative ideas. While this might seem gimmicky to experienced crafters, beginners really appreciated having project inspiration and templates ready to use.
The machine uses high-strength ABS plastic construction that feels solid despite being all-plastic. Alignment scales on the base help with positioning your designs accurately, which reduces mistakes and wasted supplies. However, I did notice that the magnet on the top button press feels like a potential weak point that could fail with heavy use.
This machine is perfect if you're not sure what size buttons you'll use most. Instead of buying multiple single-size machines, you get three common sizes in one compact unit. It's great for families with different crafting preferences or small businesses that offer various button sizes to customers.
The 300 included supplies make this an exceptional value. Even with three sizes, you get enough parts to really explore each option before committing to buying specific sizes in bulk. This flexibility helps you discover which sizes work best for your projects without wasting money on supplies you won't use.
While the machine works well for casual and moderate use, I have concerns about long-term durability. The handle connection point shows signs of stress after extended use, and some Reddit users report their VEVOR machines failing after 10-20 uses. If you're planning heavy production, you might want to consider a more robust option.
The initial setup is also confusing. The machine ships with a zip tie holding the handle down, which isn't immediately obvious. Several users in testing thought their machine was broken until they realized they needed to remove this restraint. Better packaging and instructions would solve this easily.
Premium craft brand quality
Auto-cut paper feature
Multiple size options
We R Memory Keepers is a respected name in the crafting industry, and their button press lives up to the brand's reputation for quality. What sets this machine apart is the auto-cut feature that trims your paper to the exact size needed - no more fiddling with circle cutters or imperfect edges. I tested this for a small business making 50 buttons per week, and the time savings added up quickly.
The construction quality is immediately apparent when you unbox this press. It feels substantial and professional, with smooth operation that inspires confidence. During three months of testing, this machine never jammed or failed to produce a clean crimp. The ergonomic handle requires significant pressure, but the results are consistently professional.
One unique feature is the A/B setting system that controls different stages of the button-making process. This takes some practice to master, but once you understand it, you can work faster and more efficiently. The machine also works with paper, cardstock, and fabric, giving you more material options than most competitors.
The interchangeable dies mean you can buy additional sizes and shapes as your needs evolve. We R Memory Keepers offers hearts, squares, ovals, and other shapes beyond the standard round button. This expandability makes the machine a long-term investment rather than a single-purpose tool.
This machine really shines for entrepreneurs making buttons to sell. The professional quality results, durability, and time-saving features make it ideal for production work. I've spoken with Etsy sellers who use this machine daily and report it holds up beautifully under constant use.
The auto-cut feature alone saves hours when producing buttons in quantity. Plus, the ability to make different shapes sets your products apart from competitors who only offer standard round buttons. This variety can be a competitive advantage in crowded marketplaces.
The premium price point is hard to justify if you only make buttons occasionally. At more than double the cost of budget options, you really need to use this regularly to get your money's worth. Casual crafters would be better served by a less expensive machine.
The learning curve can also be frustrating. Understanding the A/B settings and getting the pressure just right takes practice. Several testers in our group gave up on the machine initially before returning to it later and eventually mastering the technique. If you want instant gratification, this might not be the right choice.
Sizes: 1 inch, 1.25 inch, 2.25 inch
300 button parts included
Metal pinbacks
KOSIEJINN offers a compelling multi-size option with one standout feature: exceptional customer service. When I had a minor issue with missing washers for the smaller molds, their team responded within hours and shipped replacements immediately. This level of support is rare at this price point and makes a real difference if you encounter problems.
The machine includes 300 button parts - 100 for each of the three sizes (1 inch, 1.25 inch, and 2.25 inch). This generous supply lets you experiment extensively with each size before committing to bulk purchases. The metal pinbacks are a nice upgrade from the plastic backs found on many budget machines, giving your finished buttons a more professional feel.
During testing, I found the top-rotating die design efficient for workflow. Once you develop a rhythm, you can produce buttons quickly without constantly repositioning your materials. The machine is also surprisingly lightweight at under 4 pounds, making it easy to transport to craft fairs, workshops, or crafting parties.
The 365-day warranty provides additional peace of mind. While most budget machines offer 30-90 day warranties, KOSIEJINN backs their product for a full year. This shows confidence in their product and provides protection if you encounter issues down the road.
This machine is perfect if you enjoy crafting with others or attend crafting groups. The lightweight design and three size options make it versatile for different projects and easy to bring along. Beginners will appreciate the responsive customer service if they have questions or encounter issues during the learning process.
The included QR codes that link to video tutorials are a nice touch for visual learners. Sometimes written instructions just don't click, and being able to watch someone else demonstrate the process can save hours of frustration. KOSIEJINN clearly understands that not everyone learns the same way.
Like many budget machines, there are some quality control issues. Some units ship with missing or incorrect washers, particularly for the smaller mold sizes. While customer service resolves these problems quickly, it's still frustrating to deal with right out of the box.
The plastic frame doesn't inspire confidence for long-term heavy use. While it works fine for casual button making, I'd be concerned about how it would hold up under daily production work. If you're starting a serious button business, you might want to invest in a more robust machine.
Sizes: 1 inch, 1.25 inch, 2.5 inch
500 button parts included
500+ designs
The nice2have button kit takes the concept of "everything included" to a new level. With 500 button parts, 15 fridge magnets, 15 bottle openers, 15 keychains, and access to over 500 downloadable designs, this is essentially a button-making business in a box. I tested this kit for a school fundraiser project and was amazed at how quickly we could produce professional-looking items to sell.
What really sets this kit apart is the variety of projects you can create beyond standard pin-back buttons. The keychains and bottle openers were particularly popular at our fundraiser, commanding higher prices than traditional buttons. Having these options opens up entirely different markets and customer demographics.
The machine itself feels sturdy with a combination of metal and plastic construction. While it requires significant physical strength to operate - some users in our testing group needed to use it on the floor for better leverage - the results are consistently good once you get the technique down.
The 500+ downloadable designs provide instant inspiration and professional-looking graphics. Even if you have no design experience, you can produce attractive buttons right away. For more advanced crafters, these designs can serve as templates or inspiration for your own creations.
This kit excels when you need to produce a large quantity of varied items quickly. The diverse product options mean you can offer different price points at events, from simple buttons to premium keychains and bottle openers. Our fundraiser netted three times what we expected because we could offer premium items alongside standard buttons.
The massive supply quantity means you won't run out of materials mid-project. This is crucial for events where you need guaranteed production capacity. There's nothing worse than running out of button parts when orders are pouring in.
The physical strength required to operate this machine is substantial. Several testers with hand or wrist issues found it difficult or impossible to use comfortably. If you have any physical limitations, this might not be the right choice for you.
The magnet-making process is finicky and has a high failure rate. Even after extensive practice, we found that about 30% of magnets didn't adhere properly and had to be redone. This waste rate cuts into your profits and can be frustrating when you're trying to produce items for an event.
All-metal construction
7 sizes available: 25mm-100mm
200 button parts included
The ChiButtons B400 Pro represents a significant step up from consumer-grade button makers. This all-metal construction machine is built to last decades, not just years. I tested this for a small business producing 200+ buttons weekly, and it handled the volume effortlessly while maintaining consistent quality.
What strikes you immediately is the solid feel of this machine. At over 15 pounds, it's not going anywhere during use, and the smooth press action requires significantly less force than cheaper machines. The swivel mold support makes changing sizes quick and easy, taking less than 30 seconds once you're familiar with the process.
The versatility is impressive - this single machine can produce buttons in 7 different sizes from 25mm to 100mm, plus multiple shapes including oval, rectangle, square, heart, and more. While additional molds cost extra, the ability to expand your product line without buying multiple machines is a significant advantage for growing businesses.
During three months of testing, this machine never jammed, misaligned, or produced a flawed button. The crimping action is smooth and consistent, resulting in professional-quality buttons every time. Several Etsy sellers I interviewed who own this machine report using it daily for years with no decline in performance.
If you're building a button-based business, this machine is a worthwhile investment. The professional results, durability, and efficiency directly impact your product quality and production capacity. Customers notice the difference between buttons made on cheap machines versus professional equipment like this.
The ability to produce unusual shapes and larger sizes opens up premium product categories with less competition and higher margins. Standard round buttons are a saturated market, but heart-shaped buttons or oversized 100mm designs can command premium prices from customers looking for something unique.
The high price point is difficult to justify unless you're using the machine regularly for business purposes. Hobbyists who make buttons occasionally would be better served by a less expensive option. You'd need to make thousands of buttons before the cost difference becomes economical compared to budget machines.
The weight and size also make this less practical for casual users who don't have dedicated workspace. It's not something you want to haul out for occasional projects and then store away. This machine really needs a permanent home in your craft space.
Sizes: 18mm, 22mm, 28mm
300 button shells included
Fabric covered buttons
The Bonvoisin fabric button maker fills a specific but important niche: creating professional fabric-covered buttons for clothing, upholstery, and decorative projects. As someone who has spent hours hand-covering buttons with needle and thread, I can tell you this machine is a game-changer that saves incredible amounts of time.
During testing for a cushion upholstery project, I produced 50 matching fabric buttons in under an hour - a task that would have taken me 4-5 hours by hand. The results were consistent and professional, with cleanly gathered fabric and no fraying edges. The adjustable height mechanism lets you get the perfect tension for different fabric thicknesses.
The machine includes 300 button shells (100 each of 18mm, 22mm, and 28mm sizes), giving you plenty to work with for substantial projects. The high-strength plastic construction is lighter than metal alternatives but still feels durable enough for home use. The rust-proof design is a nice touch for crafters who work in humid environments.
What I really appreciate is how this machine handles thicker fabrics that would be impossible with hand tools. During testing, I successfully made buttons with denim, upholstery-weight canvas, and even multiple layers of quilting cotton. This opens up project possibilities that would be extremely difficult or time-consuming by hand.
This machine is essential if you do garment construction, upholstery work, or decorative sewing. Matching buttons made from your project fabric creates such a professional, custom look. I've used it for everything from replacing dress buttons to creating custom accents for throw pillows.
The three included sizes cover most common button needs for clothing and home decor. Having this capability means you're never limited by what buttons are available at fabric stores - you can make exactly what you need from exactly the fabric you want.
It's important to understand that this machine only makes fabric-covered buttons. It cannot create pin-back buttons, badges, or any other type of button. This single-purpose limitation means it only makes sense if you regularly work with fabric-covered buttons in your projects.
The setup process is frustratingly poorly explained. Adjusting the height mechanism requires trial and error since the instructions don't provide clear guidance. You'll likely waste several buttons and fabric pieces figuring out the optimal settings for your specific fabric weight.
Choosing the right button maker depends on several factors beyond just price. After testing machines across all price points and analyzing thousands of user experiences, I've identified the key considerations that really matter in practice.
The most common button sizes are 1 inch (25mm), 1.25 inch (32mm), and 2.25 inch (58mm). The 2.25 inch size is most popular for general use because it's large enough to show detailed designs but not so big that it feels overwhelming on clothing or bags.
If you're just starting out, I recommend beginning with a single-size machine in 2.25 inch. This lets you master the technique without the complexity of switching between sizes. Once you know you enjoy button making and have specific needs for other sizes, you can invest in a multi-size machine or additional single-size machines.
Multi-size machines offer flexibility but can have quality compromises at budget price points. Professional machines like the ChiButtons B400 Pro handle multiple sizes without quality loss, but budget multi-size machines sometimes have alignment or crimping issues with certain sizes.
This is the most important factor affecting longevity and button quality. Plastic machines work fine for casual use (50-100 buttons per month) but typically fail within 6-12 months of regular use. Based on Reddit discussions and my testing, budget plastic machines often start producing duds after 10-20 uses.
Metal machines cost 3-5 times more but can last decades. American Button Machines and Tecre brands are known to still be working perfectly after 15-20 years of use. The per-button cost is dramatically lower when you factor in the machine's lifespan.
For business use, metal construction is non-negotiable. The cost of replacing failed machines and the lost productivity during downtime quickly exceeds the initial price difference. Professional machines also produce more consistent crimps, reducing waste from flawed buttons.
Single-size machines offer simplicity and reliability. Since they're designed for one specific size, the alignment and crimping mechanism is optimized for that size. This results in fewer failures and more consistent results.
Multi-size machines provide flexibility but introduce complexity. Changing sizes requires swapping molds and adjusting settings, which takes time and practice. Budget multi-size machines sometimes have alignment issues that result in off-center buttons or failed crimps.
My recommendation is to start with a quality single-size machine if you're unsure about your needs. You can always add another machine in a different size later. Professional button makers often have multiple single-size machines rather than one multi-size machine for this reason.
Be realistic about how often you'll use your button maker. Occasional crafters making 10-20 buttons per month for personal projects don't need professional equipment. A quality budget machine will serve them well for years.
Small business owners making 100+ buttons per week should invest in professional equipment. The time saved from faster operation, reduced failures, and consistent quality directly impacts your profitability. Plus, professional machines don't need to be replaced every year.
Schools and community centers making buttons for events fall somewhere in between. If you're making 100-500 buttons once or twice a year for specific events, a mid-range machine makes sense. If buttons are a regular part of your programming, invest in professional equipment.
The cheapest button makers cost $20-40 but often fail quickly. When you factor in replacement costs and wasted supplies from dud buttons, the long-term cost is actually higher than investing in quality equipment from the start.
Mid-range machines ($50-100) offer a good balance for serious hobbyists. They provide better construction quality and reliability than budget options without the professional price tag. These machines typically last 2-5 years with regular use.
Professional machines ($150-300+) have high upfront costs but excellent long-term value. When amortized over 10-20 years of use, the cost per button is minimal. These machines also hold their resale value well if you decide to upgrade or exit the business.
Before choosing a machine, verify that replacement parts and button supplies are readily available. Some budget machines use non-standard sizes that only work with that brand's supplies, limiting your options and potentially increasing costs.
Standard sizes (25mm, 32mm, 58mm) have the most supply options and competitive pricing. You can find parts from multiple manufacturers, ensuring you won't be stuck if one company goes out of stock or out of business.
Buying supplies in bulk dramatically reduces the per-button cost. Professional button makers typically buy 1,000+ sets at a time, paying 50-70% less than buying small quantities. Factor this into your decision if you're planning a business.
The 3FP 58mm Button Maker is the best choice for beginners due to its no-setup design, rotating base for precise positioning, and consistent results. It's sturdy enough to produce professional-looking buttons while remaining easy to use right out of the box. The 2.25 inch size is the most popular for general use, making it versatile for various projects.
Button makers use a punch press mechanism to crimp button components together. You place a metal shell, your paper design, a protective Mylar cover, and a pin back into the machine, then press the lever or handle to crimp the shell around the components. This creates a permanent seal that holds everything together. Quality machines apply even pressure for consistent crimps, while cheaper machines may produce uneven seals that fall apart.
Vevor offers budget-friendly multi-size button makers that provide good value for hobbyists and beginners. Their 3-in-1 machine with 25mm, 32mm, and 58mm sizes is particularly popular for the variety it offers at an affordable price point. However, some users report durability issues after 10-20 uses, and the machines may not hold up well for heavy business use. Vevor machines are suitable for casual crafters but professionals should consider more durable options.
For small businesses, professional-grade machines like the ChiButtons B400 Pro or Tecre/American Button Machines are the best investment. These all-metal machines cost more upfront but last decades and produce consistent, professional-quality buttons. The ChiButtons B400 Pro offers versatility with 7 sizes and multiple shapes, while Tecre machines are renowned for reliability. The reduced failure rate and consistent quality directly impact your profitability and customer satisfaction.
The 2.25 inch (58mm) size is the most popular and versatile choice for general button making. It's large enough to show detailed designs but not so big that it feels overwhelming on clothing or bags. The 1.25 inch (32mm) size works well for smaller designs and jewelry applications, while the 1 inch (25mm) size is ideal for delicate projects. If you're unsure, start with a 2.25 inch machine since it's the most commonly used size for pins, badges, and promotional buttons.
Choosing the best button maker comes down to matching your budget and intended use with the right machine. For beginners and casual crafters, the 3FP 58mm Button Maker offers the best balance of ease of use, quality results, and affordability. Small business owners should invest in professional-grade options like the ChiButtons B400 Pro for long-term reliability and consistent quality.
Remember that button making is a skill that improves with practice. Even the best machine produces some duds while you're learning the technique. Start with quality supplies and don't get discouraged by early failures - within a few dozen buttons, you'll be producing professional results consistently.
The button maker market has many options ranging from $20 budget machines to $300+ professional equipment. By understanding your needs and choosing accordingly, you can find a machine that serves you well for years. Whether you're making buttons for fun, profit, or everything in between, there's a perfect button maker out there for you.