I ordered this Tecre Model 100 button making machine online and was so excited to start making buttons. The piece of paper that came with the machine made the process seem pretty straightforward.
But somehow we managed to mangle the button.
Eventually we figured it out and I wrote this so I could remember how it was done, maybe you’ll find it helpful too.
This is designed to go along with the instructions given by the manufacturer, not replace them!
Actual instructions after the jump…
Step 1
Cut out base paper. You can use any paper for this, patterned paper would be fun! There should be a sheet of circular templates that came with the machine. Trace them out or photocopy them onto the paper you want to use.
The template I have says that the button face is 0.875 inches in diameter, but for full edge wraparound the actual circular template shape is 1.313 inches in diameter.
Step 2
Place base paper on pickup die.
(Optional) Place the image that you want on the badge ontop of this base paper. You could use stickers.
Step 3
Get your Mylar. Mine is being swallowed by pink tulle.
Place Mylar ontop of the base paper pile.
Step 4
Rotate the plate around so that the side you just filled with base paper is underneath the punch.
Push down on the punch. The base paper and mylar will now be pushed up inside the punch
Step 5
Do not rotate the platform. Load the crimp die with the backing metal, sharp edge down.
Step 6
Rotate the platform and punch down on the side with the backing metal.
Step 7
Place the metal collar on the other pickup die without rotating the platform.
The sharp edge should face upwards.
Step 8
Rotate the platform around after the collar has been placed.
Step 9
Punch!
Step 10
Rotate the platform around again and remove your badge.
Admire your work.
It is a little crooked. It would have been a good idea to put glue on the image we cut out.
Step 11
Finally, slide the pinback into the groove in the back of the badge. Be careful not to impale your finger on the metal.
And that’s it, hope this was helpful :)
