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The CrAFT Studio at UNC Asheville: Frequently Asked Questions

Now open on Ramsey Library's Lower Level, the CrAFT Studio is a multi-use creativity studio at the intersection of technology, creativity, and scholarship.

Frequently Asked Questions

Button Maker Frequently Asked Questions

Who can use the button maker?
Our space, equipment, and services are intended for current UNC Asheville students, faculty, and staff use only. If you're a community member and interested in maker technology, check out Asheville Makers!

How much does it cost to use the button maker?
The button maker costs $0.25 per button, but buy 4, get 1 free!

How can I pay for using the button maker?
You will receive a e-mail upon receipt of your request from the CrAFT Studio with a price and confirmation that the charge is active on your library account. To pay with cash, check, or credit/debit card, the charge is applied to your library student account. Payments are accepted at the Circulation Desk on the main level of the library.

How long does it take for the charge to be applied to my library account?
Charges are applied to accounts three times per day (morning, mid-day, and afternoon) during normal business days. Charges received after the last payment posting (approximately 5:00 pm), after hours, on weekends, or during university holidays will be applied the next business day.

Can departments pay for buttons?
Yes, and this includes paying for student organizations! Arrangements must be made in advance; contact Amanda Glenn-Bradley for additional details. Invoices are issued after the job is completed. Payment is expected in a timely fashion; departments will have prints placed on hold for extreme cases of outstanding payments due.

How long does it take to make buttons?
We ask for three (3) business days turnaround to make the buttons after supplies are dropped off.

Why does it take so long to make buttons?
We endeavor to complete jobs faster, but the CrAFT Studio has a number of services we have to balance! Our staff take the time to make sure your buttons are made properly, from proofing the design to cutting out the design to actually creating the item with the press. We do all of this to make sure your print comes out successfully! In addition, all items are sterilized with a isopropyl alcohol based solution and/or quarantined for at least one (1) day before pickup.

How large are the buttons?
We currently have a 1.25" button maker.

What can I make with the button maker?
We currently stock supplies to make standard pin-back buttons and keychains!

What if I need more than 250 buttons?
After the 250 button point, it becomes more financially feasible for your organization or department to purchase the supplies. You will need to contact Amanda Glenn-Bradley, User Engagement Librarian, for information on how to order the materials and where to order them from. We will charge you a flat $2.50 machine usage fee.

Can I purchase my own materials?
Yes, if you clear the purchase by the studio first! You will need to contact Amanda Glenn-Bradley, User Engagement Librarian, for information on how to order the materials and where to order them from. We will charge you a flat $2.50 machine usage fee.

How do I design a button?
You can use the Media Design Lab to create images suitable for turning into a button! The visible space is 1.25". We also have a Microsoft Office template to use! Just change the fill in the circles to “Picture” and select your image. Not sure how to do that? You can read this guide to learn how to fill a Word shape with a picture.

What will the CrAFT Studio not allow for buttons?
The CrAFT Studio will not print items that are:

  • prohibited by local, state or federal law;
  • can be considered unsafe, harmful, dangerous or poses an immediate threat to the well-being of others, and as such use may violate the terms of agreement with the manufacturers of our equipment;
  • or is in violation of another's intellectual property rights, copyright, patent, or trademark protection.

We reserve the right to reject any submission, and that includes items that contain copywritten material or uses an artist's renderings without their express permission.

How can I ensure the best outcome for my job?
Make sure your file's dimensions fall within the proper specifications (see above).