Questions for Button Makers & Sellers

[Former_Member]

Hi all! :) Two questions! :)

1) My mom and I are thinking of starting a small business, making and selling pinback buttons. My mom, who is financing the initial cost of machine and materials, thinks it would be much better to start with two sizes of buttons, and is willing to commit the funds for two machines. (The model 225 and the Mini Magic 1 1/4 inch from Dr. Don's buttons are the ones are leaning toward.)
I am a little nervous about earning back enough from the business to pay back her investment in a reasonable amount of time. Experienced button sellers, do you think beginning with two sizes, or just one, would be better? How long did it take you to earn back what you invested in your buttonmaker(s)? (If you have a size recommendation, that would be welcome, too!)

2) As far as the circle cutters go, is the punch cutter so worth the extra expense that we should begin with it, or do you think it would be okay to begin with the rotary cutter?

Thanks for your time and any help you can give. :)

Summer

[PeriwinkleDzyns]

I have a 1.25" Tecre and the punch - I am very happy with them, I bought them used and paid for the machine and cutter after two craft sale
I have never considered getting any other size.

the punch saves lots and lots of time

[PortlandButtonWorks]

I have a 1", 1.25", and 2.25" Tecre machines but I spent many years just with 1". I think just getting the 1.25" machine would be fine and you could get another one later with your profits if you think you need one. And yes, you do need the punch it will save you so much time and headache.