Best Button Maker Guide: Pro vs. White-Label Machines
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Daniela Kretchmer
- Updated: Mar 30, 2026
- Craft Supplies
I have spent years testing different equipment in my craft studio, and I have found that choosing a button maker is more confusing than it needs to be. In this guide, I am pulling back the curtain on the industry and sharing which machines are worth the investment and which ones are just rebrands of the same basic model.
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.
Quick Comparison: My Top 3 Button Maker Picks
If you’re in a hurry and want to skip the deep dives, here are the top three button makers I recommend based on my testing here in my Nashville studio.
| Category | My Top Pick | Why I Love It |
|---|---|---|
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Overall Favorite |
It’s the most flexible option because you can make three different sizes for one low price. |
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Best for Professionals |
It’s incredibly durable and the metal parts make it feel high-end. It’s the most reliable press for bulk orders. |
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Best for Unique Shapes |
This is the best choice if you want to branch out from circles and make hearts, squares, or ovals. |
What is a Button Maker?
As the name suggests, a button maker is a tool that makes pin back buttons. The one caveat to this is the fabric button maker, which makes buttons that you can sew on to items.
In my craft studio, they are also called a button machine, button making machine, or a button press. The reason it’s referred to as a button press is because it works by mechanically pressing the different parts together into one permanent piece.
If you want to make professional looking buttons, you’ll want to use a button maker. There are different styles and prices available, depending on the type or size of button you want to produce.
Plastic Button Maker vs Fabric Button Maker
There are two main categories of button makers: one for creating plastic-covered metal buttons and another for making fabric-covered buttons. In my craft studio, I have found that it’s important to understand the difference before you buy, as the machines are not interchangeable.
The reason you need separate machines for fabric buttons is that the materials are secured differently. With a standard button, the machine crimps the metal shell around the paper and the protective Mylar cover to lock everything in place. Fabric buttons don’t use Mylar, and the press works by tucking the fabric around a form and securing it into a back piece.
Fabric button makers typically produce buttons with a backing that you can sew onto various items such as clothing, accessories, or upholstery projects. On the other hand, the machines I use for metal buttons primarily make pin back buttons that you can attach to clothing and bags. However, these same button makers can also create different types of items, such as magnets or bottle openers, just by using alternative backings.
The Truth About Amazon's White-Labeled Brands
If you have searched for a button maker on Amazon, you have likely seen brands like Happizza or M.K. Bear. Many of these are white-labeled products, which means that a single manufacturer produces the machine and different companies simply put their own brand name or a different color on it.
If the plastic mold and the handle design look the same in the photos, they likely are. You don’t have to worry about which specific Amazon brand to pick if the machines look identical, as you are likely getting the same quality regardless of the name on the box. Instead, I suggest choosing the one that offers the best price or the most helpful accessories in the kit.
Hobbyist vs. Professional Machines
I have used both the entry-level white-labeled types and professional machines like the ones from Tecre and UMakeButtons. The difference in quality is something that is easy to see once you have them side-by-side in a craft studio.
Professional machines are typically made of solid metal and are built for a lifetime of heavy use. If you are starting a small business or making merch for a local band, a Tecre or UMakeButtons press is a worthwhile investment. The white-labeled versions are great for beginners or for occasional hobby use, but they aren’t built to handle the same high-volume projects without wearing down.
How to Choose the Best Button Maker for Your Craft Studio
There are a few factors you need to consider when choosing a button maker. Answering each of these questions will help you decide on the right one for you.
1. Do you want to make plastic or fabric buttons?
When you’re searching for a button maker, you probably already have an idea of what you’re looking for. The first thing to consider is whether you want a plastic-style machine (metal shell with Mylar) or one that works with fabric. Are you planning to make pins or buttons that can be sewn onto other projects? Keep in mind that the type of machine you need will depend on this choice. It is important to choose the right machine for your specific needs.
2. What type of backings do you want to be able to make?
Depending on the button maker you choose, there are different backing options available. If you opt for a plastic button maker, you’ll have more choices than just the traditional pin back. I’ve come across various backings such as magnets and bottle openers that can be used. If you’re interested in creating a variety of items, it’s best to go with a standard button press instead of a fabric one.
3. How big of buttons do you want to make?
Typically, button makers can only make a single size. They usually range from 1 to 3 inches, but I have seen them as small as 7/8 inch and as large as 6 inches. If you know you only need one size, you can save money by getting a single-size machine.
If you need multiple sizes, you have two options. You can either buy multiple button makers or get one machine that allows you to swap out the bases for different sizes. These interchangeable machines are naturally more expensive, but they are a good option if you have limited space in your craft studio.
4. What shape of buttons do you want to make?
Most button makers produce round buttons. However, there are some specialized machines that can make squares, ovals, rectangles, or even hearts. These are more rare, so your options will be more limited, but they do exist if you want a non-circular shape.
5. Do you want a sliding or rotating base?
This is a personal preference, but it is definitely worth considering. The base of the machine can either rotate or slide to move between the two molds. The main difference is storage. If you go for one with a rotating base, it only takes up as much space as the base itself. If you opt for a sliding base, the slider sticks out further since it is perpendicular to the base. If you have a small workspace, a rotating base is often the better choice.
6. What is your budget?
There’s a wide range in prices for these machines. Durable professional machines are made mostly of metal, but they cost more. Cheaper options with plastic parts help keep costs lower, but they can be a bit finicky.
If you are making buttons for fun and want to save money, go for one of the plastic options. However, if you plan on making buttons frequently or for a small business, it’s worth investing in a durable metal machine.
Don’t forget to pin it so you can come back to it later!
At-a-Glance: My Top Tested Picks by Category
To make it easy, I have compiled a short list of the best button makers for different categories. This includes the professional equipment I use in my Nashville studio and the best budget-friendly options for hobbyists.
| Category | My Top Pick | Why I Recommend It |
|---|---|---|
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Best Overall Value |
Durable for the price and very reliable for beginners. |
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Best High-End Machine |
A professional, all-metal press built for heavy, long-term use. |
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Best for Multiple Sizes |
This is the type I have! It’s perfect if you have limited space, but still want the option to make buttons of different sizes. |
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Best Fabric Machine |
The best choice if you need to sew buttons onto upholstery or clothing. |
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Best for Shapes |
A unique option if you want to make squares or hearts in addition to circles. |
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Single Size Button Makers
All of these button makers can only create one size, but don’t worry! Most of them are available in multiple diameters. In my craft studio, I’ve found that single-size machines are often the most reliable choice because they have fewer moving parts to adjust. I will showcase the best model types, and you can choose the size that suits your needs. It’s all about finding the perfect fit for your specific projects!
Best Overall Value: Sliding Button Maker by Vevor
I used to feature Vevor’s metal sliding button maker, but they have since discontinued that model. This version is just as durable, without without breaking the bank. Just like the previous model, this one features a sliding component, making it easy to complete each step. It also comes with its own circle cutter, depending on the size you get. The advantage to this one is it’s cheaper as it can only make 1 size and the sliding component is made of plastic.
SIZES: 1″, 1.25″, 2.25″, 3″
PROS
- Durable – It uses mostly metal parts and a thick rubber handle.
- Comes with Circle Cutter – This makes it really easy to cut out your designs.
- Price – Relative to other metal machines, this one is reasonably priced.
CONS
- Plastic Backings – The backings it comes with are plastic pin backs, which aren’t as nice of quality as metal backings. Though you can purchase metal backings separately.
- No Alignment Lines – There aren’t lines on the sides of the mechanism to help you align the button face and backing.
Best High-End Machine: UMakeButtons Button Maker
This is the button press I use in my Nashville studio to demonstrate how to make professional buttons. The company was kind enough to send me the 1.5 inch button maker machine to try out. It’s a fantastic button machine with a pivoting base. It’s mostly made of metal parts, so you know it’s built to last. The best part is that pressing the buttons requires very little effort, so it’s just so satisfying to use.
The machine also comes with a CD that has a template, but since I no longer have a CD drive, I could not test it out. Instead, I ended up creating my own button template, which I have made available for free download.
SIZES: 1″, 1.25″, 1.5″, 1.75″, 2.25″, 3″
PROS
- Durable – It uses mostly metal parts and a thick rubber handle.
- Alignment Lines – There are lines on the mechanism to help easily line the button image and backing.
- Comes with a Circle Punch – The fact that it comes with a punch is great, but it can start to hurt your hand after a while.
- Comes with a Template CD – This is a unique benefit as it lets you easily design your buttons to make sure they fit the machine.
CONS
- Price – I would consider this a more high-end button maker since the price is on the high end.
American Button Machines - Tecre Button Maker
he Tecre button maker, also referred to as the American Button Machines button maker, is another great option for a higher-end button press. American Button Machines is likely the most famous brand that carries Tecre machines, but they can also be found on Etsy and eBay. The base pivots, and you can even get it in different shapes such as squares or rectangles if you want to branch out beyond standard circles.
SIZES: 7/8″, 1″, 1.25″, 1.5″, 1.75″, 2″, 2.25″, 2.5″, 3″, 3.5″, 4″, 6″
ADDITIONAL SHAPES: There are also models that can make squares, rectangles, and rectangles with rounded corners.
PROS
- Durable – It uses mostly metal parts and a thick rubber handle.
- Alignment Lines – There are lines on the mechanism to help easily line the button image and backing.
- Lots of Available Accessories – There are plenty of accessories and different types of backings for this machine including magnets, zipper pulls, snap, and keychains.
CONS
- Price – I would consider this a more high-end button maker since the price is on the high end.
- Might Need to Buy Supplies Separately – Depending on where you get this one, it may not automatically come as a kit. You may need to purchase the button pieces separately.
Plastic Single-Size Button Maker
This button making machine is a fantastic and affordable option if you’re looking to create buttons of a single size. This press is made of plastic but comes with a rotating base, a circle cutter, and supplies to make 500 buttons.
Note: Keep in mind that there are different versions of this machine available from various companies, each with their own brand name and additional features. When choosing the right plastic machine, make sure to consider the size and quantity of the pieces included. For example, this one has only 100 pieces but includes 5 keychain backings. However, the one I’ve selected provides the most pieces at the lowest price. Don’t forget to consider your specific needs before making a decision.
Pro Tip: One thing to watch out for with any button maker is that Mylar covers tend to stick together. It’s very easy to accidentally load two sheets at once, which will jam the machine. I suggest rubbing the stack between your fingers to ensure you haven’t grabbed a double layer before you start pressing.
SIZES: 1″, 1.25″, 1.5″, 2.25″
PROS
- Comes with Circle Cutter – This makes it really easy to cut out your designs.
- Price – Relative to the metal machines, this is very reasonably priced.
CONS
- Not As Durable – Most of it is plastic so it can feel less durable when pressing down on the lever.
- Plastic Backings – The backings it comes with are plastic pin backs, which aren’t as nice of quality as metal backings. Though you can purchase metal backings separately.
- No Alignment Lines – There aren’t lines on the sides of the mechanism to help you align the button face and backing.
Vevor Plastic Single-Size Button Maker
This one is the lowest price that Vevor makes. It works just like it’s metal and partially metal counterparts, but they’ve made it all out of plastic to lower the cost. So if budget is a concern, this could be a great option! Keep in mind, it’s only available in one size, which is 2.25″
SIZE: 2.25″
PROS
- Comes with Circle Cutter – This makes it really easy to cut out your designs.
- Price – This is the cheapest press of this style (one with a press arm)
CONS
- Not As Durable – Nearly all of it is plastic so it will feel less durable when pressing down on the lever.
- Plastic Backings – The backings it comes with are plastic pin backs, which aren’t as nice of quality as metal backings. Though you can purchase metal backings separately.
- No Alignment Lines – There aren’t lines on the sides of the mechanism to help you align the button face and backing.
Badge a Minit Handheld Button Press
If you’re looking for an affordable option to create your own buttons, this button press is a great choice. I found this compact machine to be quite handy and efficient. It’s a handheld button press machine that comes in one size (2.25″). Considering its affordability, it could be a great option for your needs if you don’t plan on making buttons in bulk.
One important note for 2026 is that the availability of these machines and their supplies has shifted as the company has changed hands. While it is an iconic brand, keep in mind that their parts are often proprietary. This means you will likely need to buy their specific button sets rather than using the universal parts that work in most other machines.
PROS
- Price – Relative to the other machines, this button press is very affordable.
- Compact – Because it’s a handheld machine, it doesn’t take up much space.
- Comes with Designs – It comes with some pre-made designs that are ready to use.
CONS
- Can Hurt to Use – Because you’re using primarily your own force to press the button, it can hurt after making a few of them.
- Not Many Pieces – The kit only comes with 10 pieces so you need to purchase replacement parts.
- Not as Durable – The parts of made of plastic so it’s not as durable as the metal machines.
- Doesn’t Come with a Circle Punch/Cutter – If you want to make your own designs, you need to cut your own (you can use my free printable template to make it easy)
Badge Artist Press
This is a newer option that’s worth sharing though I wouldn’t necessarily recommend it, unless you’re looking for more of a toy for kids. This kit makes 55mm badges and comes with a cutter, paper, markers, and even pre-made designs. However, it’s all made of plastic and seems thoroughly over-engineered. The front and back pieces seem to snap together so the only thing the machine really does is line it up properly. This could be a nice, cheap option if you are looking for a gift or a simple craft for a child.
PROS
- Price – This machine is one of the cheapest.
- Comes with Designs – It comes with some pre-made designs that are ready to use.
- Comes with Circle Cutter – This makes it really easy to cut out your designs.
- Aligns Image – The press aligns the image and backing easily.
CONS
- Plastic Badge Pieces – The badge top and bottom are made of plastic so don’t come out professional
- Not as Durable – The parts of made of plastic so it’s not as durable as the metal machines.
- Over-Engineered – The machine really isn’t necessary to attach the front and back of the badge since they just snap together.
Button Makers that Can Make Multiple Sizes
These button makers are pretty cool because they can make buttons in different sizes. This means you don’t have to worry about buying separate machines for each size. They are a bit more expensive than a single-size button press machine, but they’re a great option if you need to make buttons in different sizes without taking up too much room.”
This is actually the type of machine I have in my Nashville studio. It’s incredibly convenient to swap out the molds when I want to switch from a small 1-inch pin to a larger 2.25-inch button. It’s a versatile choice that is perfect for a growing craft studio where space is at a premium.
2 in 1 Metal Button Maker
If you want to be able to make two different sizes of buttons, this model from Vevor is a fantastic option. It features a sliding base and you can easily swap out the parts to make different sizes. There are two different options – one that makes 1.25 in and 2.25 inch buttons and another that makes 1 inch and 2.25 inch buttons. It also comes with a circle cutter to simplify the process and supplies to make 500 buttons.
SIZES: 1.25in & 2.25in or 1in & 2.25in
PROS
- Durable – It uses mostly metal parts and a thick rubber handle.
- Can Make Multiple Sizes – Unlike the machines that can only make one size, this machine can make two different sizes of buttons. You simply swap out the bases and top piece.
- Comes with Circle Cutter – This makes it really easy to cut out your designs.
- Alignment Lines – There are lines on the sides of the mechanism to help you align the button face and backing.
CONS
- Price – It’s among some of the more expensive machines.
- Sliding Base – The base slides instead of rotates (this is really more of a personal preference though)
Best for Multiple Sizes: Plastic Multiple Size Button Maker
This is actually the button making machine that I have and reference in my post on how to make buttons. This button maker is an extremely affordable option if you want to be able to make different sizes of buttons. This one from Vevor is the cheapest and comes with 3 circle cutters and supplies to make 100 buttons of each size. It also comes in different colors.
Note: Just as with the single size plastic machines, it’s made by tons of companies that add their own brand name to it. Some come with cutters or different backings and various number or pieces. This one, for example, comes with the most pieces at the lowest price. Be sure to look at the size and number of backings when choosing the right plastic machine.
MAKES THESE SIZES: 1″, 1.25″, 2.25″
PROS
- Can Make Multiple Sizes – Unlike the machines that can only make one size, this one can make three different sizes of buttons. You simply swap out the bases and top piece.
- Comes with Accessories – It comes with multiple types of backings, depending on what company you buy it from
- Price – Relative to the metal machines, this is very reasonably priced.
CONS
- Not As Durable – Most of it is plastic so it can feel less durable when pressing down on the lever.
- No Alignment Lines – There aren’t lines on the sides of the mechanism to help you align the button face and backing.
- Image Can Shift – I found that the image would shift, even when I put the image perfectly straight. This would mean the backing would be attached at an angle. To fix this I marked the angle the image was at to create my own alignment lines for the backing. It’s not a big deal, but still a step I would prefer to not have to take.
- Need to Use Gaskets – It comes with gaskets that you need to remember to put into some of the bases. It’s again an extra step that is minor, but still can be annoying if you forget and ruin a set of supplies.
Best for Shapes: We R Memory Keepers Button Press
This button press is truly an all-in-one button maker machine. The kit comes with everything you need to create buttons in 3 different sizes PLUS a heart shape! You’ll have materials to make over 60 buttons, but if you want more variety, you can buy additional accessories to make different shapes too. There’s also an option to get just a single size if you don’t need the full variety kit.
MAKES THESE SIZES: 0.98″, 1.45″, 2.25
ADDITIONAL SHAPES: You can get additional inserts to make squares and ovals, without having to purchase an additional machine.
PROS
- Can Make Multiple Sizes – Unlike the machines that can only make one size, this one can make three different sizes of buttons. You simply swap out the bases and top piece.
- Comes with Cutter – It comes with a cutting device that you insert directly into the machine to cut the perfectly sized circle.
- Alignment Lines – There are lines on the machine to help easily line the button image and backing.
- Price – Relative to the metal machines, this is very reasonably priced.
- Additional Accessories – Because it’s an all-in-one tool, it comes with some great accessories such as magnet backings and rosette ribbons.
CONS
- Not As Durable – Most of it is plastic so it can feel less durable when pressing down on the lever.
- Cutter is Built In – In order to use the cutter that it comes with, you need to use the machine itself. This means you need to precut the paper so that it fits in the machine.
- Non-Standard Sizes – The button sizes are non-standard so you have to use the brand’s accessories.
- Doesn’t Come with Many Supplies – It only comes with materials to make a few buttons and additional supplies can add up quickly.
Fabric Button Makers
All of these tools are used for creating fabric buttons. They’re sometimes called cover button kits or cover button machines. Unlike the pin-back machines used for merch or accessories, these help you make custom buttons that can be sewn onto items like clothing, pillows, or upholstery. In my experience, these are essential for any crafter who wants to match their buttons perfectly to their fabric projects.
Dritz Craft Cover Button Kit
This kit is not exactly what you would consider a traditional machine. It’s more like two plastic pieces that resemble bottle caps, where you simply place your fabric in between and press it by hand. Surprisingly, it does the job! And the best part is, it won’t break the bank!
SIZES: 3/4″, 7/8″, 1-1/8″
PROS
- Price – Because there aren’t a lot of pieces and a large machine, this is an incredibly affordable option.
- Comes with a Template – It comes with a plastic disc to make it easy to draw on the fabric and cut out the perfect size circle.
CONS
- Can Hurt to Use – Because you’re using your own force to press the button, it can hurt after making a few of them.
- Not Many Pieces – The kit only comes with 18 pieces so you need to purchase replacement parts which can add up (the largest pack I could find was this 60 count pack).
- Only One Size – The kit can only make one size of button. If you need to make a different size, you need to get a completely different kit.
Best Fabric Machine: Metal Fabric Button Maker
This metal fabric button maker can make 3 different sizes of fabric buttons. This kit comes with 300 pieces (100 of each size).
Note: When it comes to this button machine, you’ll find that many companies offer their own versions with their logos on them. But here’s the thing: it doesn’t really matter which one you go for. My advice is to look for the cheapest option that has the sizes you want and comes with the most additional supplies. It’s all about getting the most bang for your buck. At the time of writing this, the one I’m linking to is the best option.
SIZES: 18mm, 25mm, 30mm
PROS
- Durable – It’s made mostly of metal so it’s extremely durable.
- Comes with a Template – It comes with a plastic disc to make it easy to draw on the fabric and cut out the perfect size circle.
- Not Painful – Relative to the handheld option, this machine makes it incredibly easy to make fabric covered buttons, completely pain-free.
- Additional Accessories – You can get additional inserts to make different sizes of buttons.
CONS
- No Circle Cutter: It doesn’t come with a circle cutter so you need to cut the fabric yourself.
A 2026 Buyer's Final Checklist
Before you hit the buy button, run through this final checklist to ensure you are getting the machine that fits your needs.
Stock Up on Parts: One of the best things about these machines is that the refill parts are standard. Whether you’re using a metal Vevor or a plastic 3-in-1, you can easily find shells, Mylar, and pin backs that fit. I suggest buying in bulk to get the best price per button. Just make sure to get them in the correct size – for example here are ones for 1 inch buttons.
Workspace Footprint: If you choose a sliding base machine, ensure you have a few extra inches of clearance on either side. The base slides back and forth during the process, so it’s important to have a clear spot on your desk where it won’t bump into other tools.
Warranty and Support: Check the seller’s rating before purchasing. While many brands offer a one-year warranty, it’s much easier to get support from established companies if a component happens to fail. It’s worth a quick check to see if the company has a reliable history of honoring replacements.
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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.
2 thoughts on “Best Button Maker Guide: Pro vs. White-Label Machines”
I tried to find the button maker on AliExpress but I can’t seem to find it and the links don’t work. Do you have a brand and model number for that button maker? I am trying to find a button maker that makes 1-3inch buttons.
Thanks!
Ah looks like it’s no longer available. I’ve updated the post with a different listing that makes a 1 inch to 2.25 inch button maker.