Are you new to the magnet-making world? Check out this video to learn how to create magnets using our equipment.
Here is what you need for a complete setup:
- Template
- Printer
- Paper
- Equipment
- Supplies
Template
Create a file with the final graphic. We provide pre-built templates with every purchase of our equipment.
Depending on the size and shape of your equipment, you can fit from 2-3 to 20-30 magnets on letter-size paper.
Remember that the bigger the size of the final product, the fewer images will fit on one page.
Printer
We recommend a laser or ink printer. Which one to choose?
Laser Printers
Pros:
- Superior in printing crisp, clean images with great color intensity.
- Print is not affected by moisture, unlike inkjet prints.
- Faster printing speed and more economical cost per page.
- Toner (dry powder) doesn't require drying time; allows immediate use of prints for button making.
- Toner cartridges do not dry out like inkjet cartridges, ensuring freshness.
Cons:
- Prints can cause mylar slippage, particularly with full-bleed designs, leading to improper crimping of buttons.
- Toner contains wax, which can unpredictably cause button-making issues.
- Higher initial investment compared to inkjet printers.
- Replacement toner cartridges are typically more expensive than inkjet cartridges.
Inkjet Printers
Pros:
- Lower initial investment cost.
- Paper choice greatly influences the brilliance of colors; best results with bright white paper.
- Ink supply programs from major manufacturers make refills easy and economical.
- Smaller and less cumbersome, with some models designed for portability.
- Suitable for on-location events due to their size and portability.
Cons:
- Liquid ink requires time to dry, potentially up to 24 hours, to avoid rust in buttons.
- Slower printing speed compared to laser printers.
- Ink cartridges need to be replaced more frequently than toner cartridges in laser printers.
Conclusion
The choice between a laser printer and an inkjet printer for button making depends on individual needs and priorities. Budget constraints and the desire for portability might lean towards an inkjet printer, while a focus on quality and volume of production might favor a laser printer. Ultimately, creativity and originality in button design are paramount, and the printer is a tool to realize these designs.
Paper
Paper Weight
- Avoid using too light (e.g., 20lb) or too thick paper to prevent issues with crimping or machine jamming.
- The ideal paper weight varies based on the button size and machine type.
- Standard machines: Optimal thickness is 0.005 - 0.006 inches with a weight of 24 lbs.
- Rectangle machines: Standard copier paper (0.005 inches, 24 lb) for paper machine.
- Specialty shapes: Standard copier paper is generally suitable.
- All machines (except 2 x 3 photo) can accommodate as light as 20 lb paper, but print quality may diminish.
Paper Brightness
- For white paper, a brightness level of 100 is recommended for a pure white background and vivid prints.
- Terms like "super white" and "ultra bright" indicate high-quality brightness.
- When using colored paper, account for the ink's color change on the paper; darker papers will result in darker prints.
General Advice
- There's a wide variety of media that can be used for button making, and what works for one person may not work for another.
- Following these guidelines should lead to successfully pressing high-quality buttons.
- The most popular paper in the magnet making community is Epson Presentation Paper.
Equipment
You need a graphic cutter and a press machine to create a photo magnet. We sell magnet-making kits that include everything you need to get started.
Supplies
To create a complete magnet, you will need the following:
- Metal shell
- Clear mylar
- Plastic back
Our complete sets of supplies include 1000 of each, allowing you to create 1000 magnets.
Questions?
If you have any questions, refer to our FAQ page or contact us. We will gladly assist you.
