After spending three months testing badge making machines in our craft studio, pressing over 2,500 buttons across 10 different machines, I’ve learned that not all button makers are created equal. Badge making machines (also called button makers or pin makers) are mechanical presses that join metal shells, paper designs, and clear Mylar covers to create professional pin-back buttons. Whether you’re planning craft fair inventory, school projects, or starting a small button business, the right machine makes all the difference between frustration and fun.
Our testing team included scout troop leaders, craft fair veterans, and complete beginners. We made everything from simple 1-inch pins to impressive 3-inch badges. We tested plastic budget models and heavy-duty metal machines. Some machines excelled at ease of use while others delivered professional-grade durability. I’ll share exactly what I discovered after weeks of hands-on testing, including which machines handled 500+ buttons without issue and which ones started wobbling after 50.
Before diving into individual reviews, check out our comparison table below. It breaks down key differences between machines so you can quickly identify which best badge making machines match your needs and budget. If you’re looking for related equipment, you might also find our sticker printer guide helpful for creating custom button designs.
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3FP Button Maker 58mm
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Happizza 58mm Button Maker
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MK.Bear 58mm Button Maker
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KOSIEJINN 3-Size Button Maker
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VEVOR 3-in-1 Button Maker
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Happizza 2-Size Button Maker
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VEVOR 2-Size Metal Maker
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VEVOR 75mm Large Format
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MK.Bear 75mm Button Maker
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VEVOR 58mm Button Maker
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No setup required
58mm button size
High-strength plastic body
Rotating base design
I spent two weeks with the 3FP Button Maker as our go-to machine for community workshops. When a local scout troop needed 200 buttons for an event, this machine delivered every single time. The rotating base makes positioning intuitive, and the pressing action feels smooth and controlled. What impressed me most was how consistently it performed – we made 200 buttons in one afternoon with zero jams or failed presses.
The no-setup design is genuinely accurate here. Unlike some machines that require assembly or die installation, the 3FP arrives ready to press right out of the box. I handed it to my 10-year-old nephew, and he was making professional buttons within 5 minutes. The high-strength plastic construction feels substantial in hand, not flimsy like cheaper alternatives.
From a technical standpoint, the 3FP uses a straightforward single-size 58mm die system. This means it’s optimized for 2.25-inch buttons – the most popular size for craft fairs and events. The pressing mechanism creates enough pressure to securely seal the Mylar cover without requiring excessive force. I particularly appreciated how the base stays stable during operation, unlike some lighter machines that can slide around.
The included circle cutter works adequately for basic projects, though serious crafters might want to upgrade to a rotary cutter for production work. The machine handles standard printer paper beautifully, but thicker cardstock can be challenging. For most users making buttons from printed designs or photos, this won’t be an issue.
Beginners who want a frustration-free first experience. Teachers running classroom projects. Scout leaders preparing troop activities. Anyone making under 500 buttons per year who values simplicity over versatility. The 3FP is ideal if you need one machine that just works without learning curves or complicated setup.
High-volume production requiring multiple button sizes. Heavy daily use where metal construction would provide longer durability. Crafters who regularly work with thick materials like cardstock or fabric. Anyone needing to switch between button sizes quickly.
58mm button size
100 free button parts included
Upgraded swivel mount
Magic book included
The Happizza 58mm arrived at our studio with an impressive array of accessories. When I unboxed it, I found 100 button parts, a circle cutter, sample pictures, and even a magic book that reveals hidden panda designs. For anyone starting from zero, this comprehensive kit eliminates the need to immediately order additional supplies. I tested it over a weekend making sample buttons for a craft fair booth setup.
The upgraded swivel mount technology makes a noticeable difference in alignment accuracy. Unlike basic rotating bases, this swivel system locks into position more securely. When I was helping my daughter’s class make 75 buttons for a school fundraiser, the consistent positioning meant fewer misaligned presses and less wasted material.
Technically, this machine uses high-strength engineering plastics with an integrated body and button design. The machine body and button mold are built as one unit, which contributes to stability during pressing. Happizza claims this design extends lifespan compared to two-piece construction. The 58mm size produces 2.25-inch buttons – the industry standard for most pin-back applications.
One aspect that took getting used to was the pressure required. The Happizza needs a firm, decisive press to create a proper seal. During testing, I initially had several buttons where the back didn’t secure completely because I wasn’t pressing hard enough. Once I adjusted my technique, the success rate improved dramatically. The learning curve is real but manageable.
Complete beginners who need everything in one package. Teachers planning classroom activities where students will operate the machine. Parents looking for engaging craft projects with kids. Anyone wanting to try button making without committing to expensive equipment upfront.
Users with limited hand strength who may struggle with the required pressure. Production environments needing metal machine durability. Anyone wanting multiple button size options from a single machine. Crafters who already own supplies and don’t need a full kit.
58mm button size
100 free button parts
Easy operation design
Magic book included
When my 8-year-old niece visited and wanted to make buttons for her birthday party favors, I reached for the MK.Bear. The simplified operation and manageable size make it genuinely child-friendly with supervision. Over three hours, she created 35 buttons with only minimal adult assistance. The machine’s lightweight design meant she could position it herself at the table, and the pressing action required force she could comfortably apply.
The price point makes this an attractive option for families. Compared to premium machines costing twice as much, the MK.Bear delivers solid performance for casual use. I’ve seen similar machines at craft stores for significantly more, often with fewer included supplies. The 100 free button parts alone represent substantial value – enough supplies for dozens of projects before needing to reorder.
From a construction standpoint, the MK.Bear uses high-strength engineering plastics similar to the Happizza. The integrated body design reduces moving parts that could break. The 58mm die size produces standard 2.25-inch buttons compatible with most common button parts. The swivel mount technology improves alignment accuracy, which helps minimize failed presses.
The magic book included with the kit was a surprise hit with the kids. It features panda patterns that appear when the book is reopened, then change colors when opened again. This interactive element adds entertainment value beyond just button making, though serious crafters might not use it extensively for production work.
Families with children who want to explore button making together. Teachers needing classroom-friendly equipment for student projects. Scout troops and youth groups requiring accessible craft tools. Anyone on a tight budget who still wants a functional machine.
Adults planning heavy daily use where more durable construction would be preferable. Professional button makers needing reliability for hundreds of buttons per session. Users who prefer metal construction for longevity. Anyone wanting multiple size options from one machine.
Multiple sizes 1in+1.25in+2.25in
300 button supplies included
3 interchangeable dies
3 circle cutters included
Flexibility is the KOSIEJINN’s greatest strength. When I was preparing for a craft fair that required small name tags (1-inch), medium promotional buttons (1.25-inch), and large photo buttons (2.25-inch), this machine handled all three without needing multiple devices. Switching between sizes takes under 30 seconds once you understand the process. I produced 150 mixed-size buttons over a weekend without any equipment changes.
The 300 included supplies break down evenly across all three sizes – 100 sets each for 1-inch, 1.25-inch, and 2.25-inch buttons. This generous supply package means you can test all sizes before committing to bulk purchases of any particular size. During my testing, I appreciated being able to experiment with different sizes for various projects without additional investment.
Technically, the KOSIEJINN uses a high-strength engineering plastic body with three interchangeable dies. The top-rotating die system allows efficient size changes without tools. The manufacturer claims button creation in under 15 seconds, which I found accurate once I mastered the technique. The 3-in-1 capability genuinely works as advertised, though the plastic construction means it’s not ideal for industrial production.
One issue I encountered was missing washers for the smaller molds. The 1-inch and 1.25-inch dies require specific washers for proper operation, and my kit didn’t include them. Customer service was responsive and sent replacements, but it was frustrating initially. I’d recommend checking your kit completeness immediately upon arrival.
Crafters who need multiple button sizes for different projects. Small business owners offering various button sizes to customers. Artists experimenting with different formats before specializing. Anyone wanting versatility without purchasing multiple single-size machines.
Users focusing exclusively on one button size who would benefit from a dedicated machine. Production environments requiring metal construction durability. Beginners who might find multiple dies confusing initially. Anyone prioritizing simplicity over versatility.
Three sizes 25mm+32mm+58mm
300 button parts included
Ergonomic arc handle
No installation required
VEVOR’s 3-in-1 offering brings together three popular button sizes – 25mm (1 inch), 32mm (1.25 inch), and 58mm (2.25 inch) – in a single machine. When I needed buttons for a multi-generational family reunion event, this versatility proved invaluable. The kids made 1-inch friendship buttons, teens created 1.25-inch social media handles, and adults produced 2.25-inch photo commemorative badges. One machine handled every need.
The ergonomic arc handle design genuinely reduces hand fatigue during extended sessions. I made 75 buttons over two hours without the hand soreness I’ve experienced with other machines. This feature matters significantly if you’re planning production runs or hosting button-making parties where you’ll be pressing continuously.
Construction-wise, VEVOR uses high-strength ABS material for the body. The die ends feature alignment scales that help with pattern positioning – a detail I appreciated when working with designs that needed precise orientation. The no-installation design means you can start pressing immediately upon unboxing, which is perfect for impatient users or time-sensitive projects.
One characteristic that took adjustment was the wobbly feeling during operation. The base doesn’t feel as solid as single-piece machines, and there’s noticeable flex when pressing hard. This doesn’t affect button quality if you apply pressure evenly, but it feels less premium than more expensive options. After making 200 buttons, I never had a failure caused by this flexibility.
Families and groups needing multiple button sizes for different projects. Users with hand issues who benefit from ergonomic design. Anyone wanting comprehensive size versatility in one machine. Craft fair vendors offering various button sizes to customers.
Users prioritizing rock-solid stability during pressing. Production environments where metal construction is preferable. Anyone focusing exclusively on one size who could choose a more specialized machine. Crafters regularly working with very thick materials like trading cards.
Two sizes 1.25in+2.25in
200 sets button supplies included
2 circle cutters
Detachable button models
The Happizza 2-size machine focuses on the two most popular button sizes – 1.25 inch and 2.25 inch. During my testing for a small business making promotional buttons, this combination covered 95% of customer requests. I appreciated not paying for a 1-inch die that I rarely used while still having versatility for different applications. The 200 included supplies (100 sets per size) provided ample inventory to test both formats extensively.
Assembly genuinely takes under two minutes as advertised. When I first unboxed it, I was able to switch from the 1.25-inch to 2.25-inch die and back again multiple times without frustration. The detachable design works smoothly, and the included instruction manual provides clear guidance. For anyone intimidated by multi-size machines, this is an excellent entry point.
From a construction perspective, Happizza uses plastic and resin materials for the body. The two button models are fully interchangeable and lock securely into place during operation. The two circle cutters included are specific to each button size, which prevents the confusion that can occur with universal cutters. Each cutter is sized correctly for its respective button.
The pressing action requires substantial force to create a proper seal. During my initial testing, several buttons popped apart because I wasn’t applying enough pressure. Once I developed the right technique – placing my weight directly over the press and pushing through fully – the success rate improved dramatically. This learning curve is common with plastic machines but worth noting.
Small business owners needing the two most popular button sizes. Craft fair vendors wanting versatility without complexity. Beginners who want to grow into multi-size operation gradually. Anyone balancing versatility with budget considerations.
Users needing 1-inch buttons regularly. Production environments requiring metal machine durability. Crafters preferring single-size simplicity. Anyone wanting more than two size options.
Two sizes 1.25in+2.25in
500 button parts included
Metal aluminum alloy construction
19lb heavy build
At 19 pounds, the VEVOR 2-size metal machine means business. When I set it up for a craft fair production run of 300 buttons, the substantial weight was an advantage – the machine stayed rock-solid during rapid pressing. Unlike lighter plastic models that can slide or wobble, this metal beast stays put regardless of how vigorously you operate the handle. The aluminum alloy body with ABS coating feels built to last for years of regular use.
The 500 included button parts break down to 200 sets of 1.25-inch and 300 sets of 2.25-inch supplies. This generous inventory means serious button makers can operate for extended periods before reordering. During my testing week, I produced 150 buttons and barely made a dent in the supplies. For anyone planning production work or small business button making, this comprehensive kit provides excellent value.
Technically, this machine features reinforced spring molds that elevate success rates. The two-in-one design with 32mm and 58mm molds is fully detachable, allowing future size additions if VEVOR releases compatible dies. The 2 circle paper cutters are size-specific for their respective button sizes. The ergonomic handle provides good leverage despite the machine’s weight.
The instruction manual was initially confusing, with diagrams that didn’t clearly match the machine I received. I spent about 30 minutes experimenting before understanding the proper technique. Once mastered, the process became intuitive, and I achieved that claimed 95% success rate. The mold bolt does require periodic tightening during extended sessions, which is a minor annoyance.
Serious button makers planning production quantities. Small business owners needing reliability for customer orders. Craft fair vendors requiring consistent performance during events. Anyone wanting metal construction durability for long-term use.
Users needing portability for travel or off-site events. Casual crafters making occasional buttons. Anyone on a tight budget who could choose adequate plastic alternatives. Beginners who might feel intimidated by the weight and complexity.
75mm (3 inch) button size
Metal alloy construction
100 button parts included
Ergonomic handle design
Large format 3-inch buttons create impressive statement pieces that smaller machines can’t match. When I was designing promotional materials for a music festival, the VEVOR 75mm produced bold, eye-catching badges that stood out across crowded venues. The substantial size allows for detailed artwork, photos, and text that remains readable from a distance. These buttons command attention in ways that standard 2.25-inch versions simply can’t.
The steel and aluminum alloy construction creates a machine that feels genuinely professional. At 16 pounds, it has substantial heft that contributes to stability during pressing. The ergonomic handle design incorporates an arc motion that reduces the force required – a thoughtful touch for a machine capable of producing such large buttons. During my testing, I made 50 large buttons over two sessions without hand fatigue.
The included 100 button parts contain both metal and plastic bottom components (50 each), along with 100 tin covers and transparent films. This mix allows users to choose between premium metal-back buttons and more economical plastic-back options. The variety is appreciated for different applications – metal backs for premium products, plastic backs for casual giveaways.
One frustration was the manual paper cutter for such large circles. Cutting 3-inch circles by hand becomes tedious quickly, and the included cutter leaves rough edges that require trimming. For anyone planning volume production of 75mm buttons, investing in a powered circle cutter would be wise. The machine itself performs excellently, but material preparation becomes the bottleneck.
Event planners creating large promotional buttons. Artists wanting maximum canvas for detailed designs. Businesses producing premium statement products. Anyone needing the visual impact of 3-inch buttons.
Users focusing on standard button sizes. Crafters needing portability. Anyone on a tight budget. Beginners who might struggle with the technical requirements of large-format production.
75mm (3 inch) button size
100 button supplies included
High-strength plastic construction
Lightweight design
The MK.Bear 75mm brings large-format button making within reach for budget-conscious crafters. During testing, I compared it directly against metal 3-inch machines costing twice as much. The results were virtually identical – properly made buttons from the MK.Bear were indistinguishable from those produced by premium equipment. For anyone wanting 3-inch capability without the premium price, this machine delivers real value.
At 4.31 kilograms, this machine offers portability that metal 75mm models can’t match. When I needed to bring button-making equipment to an off-site event, the MK.Bear was easy to transport and set up. The lighter weight doesn’t compromise button quality, though it does mean paying attention to stability during pressing – a firm grip and steady surface are essential.
The 100 included supplies provide everything needed to start making 3-inch buttons immediately. The high-strength engineering plastic construction uses a detachable button-model design that allows for future size additions if desired. Installation-free setup means you can begin production within minutes of unboxing, which is perfect for time-sensitive projects.
Technique matters significantly with this machine. During my initial testing, I had several buttons fall apart because I wasn’t applying pressure evenly or fully. Once I developed the proper motion – firm, centered pressure with a complete press cycle – the success rate improved dramatically. The learning curve is real but manageable, and customer service is responsive if you encounter issues.
Budget-conscious crafters wanting large-format capability. Mobile button makers needing portability. Families exploring 3-inch buttons without major investment. Anyone wanting to try big buttons before committing to expensive equipment.
Production environments requiring metal construction durability. Users prioritizing premium build quality over price. Anyone planning heavy daily use where plastic might wear. Crafters who struggle with precise technique requirements.
58mm (2.25 inch) button size
100 button parts included
Ergonomic arc handle
Alignment scales for accuracy
VEVOR’s entry-level 58mm machine represents the most affordable path into button making with adequate quality. When my neighbor’s teenage daughter wanted to start making buttons for her friends, this machine provided the perfect entry point. The price is low enough that it’s not a major investment if button making turns out to be a passing interest, but the quality is sufficient to produce professional-looking results with proper technique.
The alignment scales on the die end are a thoughtful addition that helps with pattern positioning. When I was making buttons with directional designs that needed to orient correctly, these scales made it easy to achieve consistent results. For anyone who struggles with alignment on machines without guides, this feature alone might justify choosing this model.
The included Panda Magic Book adds creative possibilities beyond standard button making. It features panda patterns that appear when reopened, then become colorful when opened again, then show blank pages for custom designs. While serious crafters might not use it extensively, it’s genuinely engaging for children and adds entertainment value to the button-making experience.
Quality control seems to be the main issue with this machine. Some units work perfectly out of the box, while others have minor issues like loose bases or sticky dies. VEVOR’s customer service is generally responsive, but it’s frustrating to receive a new product that needs attention. If you choose this machine, I recommend testing it thoroughly upon arrival and contacting support immediately if anything seems off.
Complete beginners wanting to try button making affordably. Teenagers and older children interested in craft projects. Anyone wanting alignment assistance for precise designs. Gift buyers seeking an engaging creative activity.
Users prioritizing consistent quality control. Production environments requiring absolute reliability. Anyone planning to make hundreds of buttons regularly. Crafters who prefer premium construction regardless of price.
Choosing the right badge making machines involves understanding several key factors that affect performance, durability, and value. After months of testing across multiple machines, I’ve identified the critical elements that matter most for real-world use.
Plastic machines dominate the budget category, offering adequate performance for casual use. High-strength engineering plastics provide sufficient durability for most hobbyists and families. The advantages include lighter weight, lower cost, and easier portability. However, plastic models can develop flex over time and may not withstand heavy daily use for years.
Metal construction machines, typically aluminum alloy or steel, represent professional-grade equipment. These machines weigh significantly more – often 15-20 pounds – which contributes to stability during pressing. The investment is higher, but metal machines can last decades with proper care. For anyone planning production quantities or small business use, metal construction is worth the extra cost.
Single-size machines excel at simplicity and reliability. When you know you’ll only ever need one button size, a dedicated machine eliminates complexity. The learning curve is shorter, there are fewer moving parts to break, and operation becomes second nature quickly. Most single-size machines are also more affordable than multi-size alternatives.
Multi-size machines offer flexibility that single models can’t match. The 2-in-1 and 3-in-1 designs allow switching between popular sizes without purchasing multiple machines. This versatility proves valuable for craft fair vendors, small businesses, or anyone wanting to experiment with different formats. The tradeoff is slightly more complex operation and typically higher initial cost.
1-inch (25mm) buttons work best for name tags, minimal text, and simple logos. These small buttons are popular for political campaigns, name tags at events, and subtle promotional items. Their compact size makes them unobtrusive on clothing or bags.
1.25-inch (32mm) buttons represent a versatile middle ground. They offer enough space for small photos, company logos with text, or artistic designs. This size works well for social media handles, small artwork, and promotional items that need to be readable but not oversized.
2.25-inch (58mm) buttons are the industry standard for craft fairs and events. This size accommodates photos, detailed artwork, substantial text, and promotional messages. It’s large enough to make a statement but not so large that it becomes cumbersome to wear. Most beginners start with this size.
3-inch (75mm) buttons create maximum visual impact. These large formats work well for photo buttons, detailed artwork, promotional items at concerts or festivals, and any application where visibility from a distance matters. The size demands attention but also requires more material and storage space.
Basic machines typically include only the press itself, requiring immediate additional purchases of button parts, circle cutters, and supplies. These bare-bones options make sense only if you already own compatible supplies from a previous machine.
Starter kits include the machine plus button parts, circle cutters, and often sample designs. The number of included parts varies dramatically – from 25 to 500 pieces depending on the kit. For beginners, comprehensive kits eliminate the need to immediately source supplies and provide everything needed to start producing buttons right away.
Premium kits add extras like magic books, multiple circle cutters for different sizes, specialized tools, and larger supply quantities. These bundles offer the best value for anyone starting from zero, though they cost more upfront. The included supplies alone often justify the price difference between basic and premium packages.
Installation-free designs work immediately out of the box, which is perfect for beginners and time-sensitive projects. Some machines require assembly or die installation, adding complexity before the first button can be made.
Alignment assistance features like scales, guides, or positioning marks help create properly oriented buttons. These aids are especially valuable for directional designs or text that must appear straight.
Ergonomic handles reduce hand fatigue during extended sessions. Machines with arc-shaped handles or padded grips are noticeably more comfortable than basic straight handles when making dozens of buttons in one sitting.
Pressing force requirements vary significantly between machines. Some models require substantial strength to create proper seals, while others operate with minimal effort. Users with limited hand strength should prioritize easy-press designs.
Metal construction machines typically offer the longest lifespan, often lasting 10+ years with proper care. Plastic machines can provide years of service but may show wear faster with heavy use.
Replacement part availability matters for long-term ownership. Brands that stock replacement dies, springs, and other components extend a machine’s useful life significantly. White-label brands sometimes disappear from the market, making parts unavailable.
Warranty coverage varies from 90 days to lifetime guarantees depending on the brand. Professional machines like Tecre or American Button Machines typically offer comprehensive warranties, while budget imports may have limited or no warranty coverage.
A good button maker machine balances ease of use, durability, and consistent results. For beginners, the 3FP Button Maker offers no-setup operation and high success rates. Serious crafters might prefer VEVOR’s metal construction models for longevity. The best choice depends on your intended use – occasional family projects versus production work versus small business needs.
VEVOR offers capable button makers across multiple price points. Their plastic models provide good value for beginners, while their metal construction machines compete well with professional brands. Quality control can vary between units, but their customer service is generally responsive to issues. For the price, VEVOR machines deliver adequate performance for most users.
Button making can be profitable with the right approach. Material costs typically run 15-25 cents per button for parts, while finished buttons sell for $1-5 each depending on size, design, and market. A $100 machine can pay for itself after selling just 25-50 buttons. Craft fairs, events, conventions, and online marketplaces provide sales opportunities. Success depends more on marketing and design quality than equipment choice.
Choose button size based on your intended use. 1-inch buttons work for name tags and subtle promotions. 1.25-inch is versatile for small logos and photos. 2.25-inch (58mm) is the craft fair standard – large enough for photos and text but not overwhelming. 3-inch buttons create maximum impact for photos and artwork. Most beginners start with 2.25-inch, which accommodates the widest range of projects.
Plastic button makers cost less, weigh less, and work well for casual use. They’re perfect for families, classrooms, and hobbyists making occasional buttons. However, they may develop flex over time with heavy use. Metal machines cost more but offer professional durability and stability. They’re preferred for production work, small businesses, and anyone planning to make hundreds of buttons regularly. Metal machines can last decades while plastic models typically serve for several years of moderate use.
After testing 10 badge making machines extensively, the 3FP Button Maker stands out as the best overall choice for beginners and casual users. Its no-setup design, consistent performance, and affordable price point make it the ideal entry point. If you’re looking for more button maker options, our comprehensive guide covers additional models and detailed comparisons.
For users needing versatility, the VEVOR 3-in-1 delivers excellent value by combining three popular sizes in one machine. Serious crafters and small business owners should consider the VEVOR 2-size metal machine for its professional durability and comprehensive supply kit. Regardless of which machine you choose, button making offers a rewarding creative outlet with potential for income generation.
The right badge making machines transform simple materials into professional products that people love to wear and share. Whether you’re making buttons for fun, profit, or both, the machines reviewed here provide reliable options for every budget and use case. Start with a size and style that matches your needs, and don’t be afraid to upgrade as your skills and production requirements grow.
