Using a slide-style tool with your button maker simplifies the crucial step of cutting your artwork perfectly for your buttons. Based on the provided reference, here's how you use the slide punch or cutter portion of the button-making process.
Understanding the Slide Tool
While the term "slide button maker" might refer to the entire machine in some contexts, the reference specifically describes a tool that involves sliding. This tool is typically a paper punch or cutter designed to precisely cut out your button artwork circle. It's an essential accessory used before you use the main button press machine.
Steps for Using the Slide Cutter
The reference outlines the initial steps for using this specific type of button-making accessory:
- Set Up the Tool: Place the slide cutter tool securely on an even, stable work surface. Ensuring the tool is steady is important for safe and accurate cutting.
- Insert Your Image: Slide the piece of paper containing the image you want to cut out into the slot on the side of the punch. This slot guides the paper into the correct position for punching.
Once the image is properly positioned in the slot, you would then typically engage the cutting mechanism (often by pressing a lever or pushing down) to punch out the perfect circle needed for your button.
Why Use a Slide Cutter?
Using a dedicated slide cutter ensures:
- Precise Cutting: It cuts your artwork to the exact size required for your specific button maker die.
- Efficiency: It's faster and more consistent than cutting circles by hand.
- Alignment: The slide slot helps align your image correctly before cutting.
Button Making Process Overview
Using the slide cutter is just one part of creating a custom button. Here's a brief look at how the cutting step fits into the overall process:
| Step | Action | Tool Used |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Create or print your button artwork. | Computer, Printer |
| Cut Artwork | Precisely cut the artwork into a circle. | Slide Cutter/Punch |
| Assemble Layers | Place artwork, plastic film, and button parts into the press dies. | Button Press Dies |
| Press Button | Use the machine to press the layers together. | Button Press Machine |
The reference specifically focuses on the "Cut Artwork" step, highlighting the ease of sliding your printed image into the tool's slot for cutting.
In essence, using a slide tool in button making involves correctly placing the paper art into the designated slot on the cutter and then activating the punch mechanism to prepare your image for pressing.
