Manufacturer · Fashion & Home Accessories
Custom logo buttons are made in four main ways: laser engraving on a finished button, embossing or debossing with a die, enamel that fills the logo with colour, and printing. The choice depends on the button material, the look you want and the quantity. Laser engraving needs no tooling and is the easiest start. Embossing and die-casting require a die, but on larger runs give the most premium result.
We compare the methods themselves in detail in the article engraving or embossing on buttons. Here we focus on the practical side: what each method costs, from what quantities it makes sense and how long it takes.
Logo button methods and what they require
Laser engraving
The laser burns or removes a thin surface layer and the logo shows in a lighter or darker tone. It works on corozo, wood, coconut, horn, mother-of-pearl, polyester and metal. No die is needed, so it is the most flexible option for a first collection and for engraved buttons in different sizes with the same logo.
Embossing with a die
On metal buttons the logo is stamped or cast together with the button. On polyester buttons it is formed in the mould. The result is a raised logo you can feel with your finger and that does not wear off. It requires a die or mould, a one-off cost that is reused on subsequent orders.
Enamel
The recessed logo on a metal button is filled with enamel in a Pantone colour. That way the logo is in your brand colour. Each colour is a separate operation, so single-colour enamel is better value than multi-colour.
Printing
Pad printing on polyester and metal buttons. It suits small, colourful logos but is less resistant to abrasion than engraving or embossing.
Table: technique, materials and minimum
| Technique | Materials | Look | Tooling | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Laser engraving | Corozo, wood, coconut, horn, mother-of-pearl, polyester, metal | Fine, tonal logo | No | First collection, many sizes |
| Embossing (stamping/die-casting) | Metal | Raised, premium | Die/mould | Denim, outerwear, series |
| Moulded relief | Polyester | Raised, in the button colour | Mould | Large runs |
| Enamel | Metal | Coloured logo | Die | Brands with a clear corporate colour |
| Pad printing | Polyester, metal | Flat colour | Printing plate | Small coloured logos |
Minimum quantities for logo buttons
At Polkom the minimum is generally 1,000 pcs per model, and for buttons it is often higher. The reason is that a button is a small item and the machine is set up for every size, colour and logo. The exact minimum depends on the model and method and is confirmed in the quote. A few tips if your quantity is small:
- Start with laser engraving on a standard button from the catalogue. No die and a lower threshold.
- Use one logo and one button design across several garment styles.
- Combine sizes (for example 24L and 32L on a jacket) with the same logo in one order.
- Put the logo only on the visible buttons and use standard ones inside.
What drives the cost
- Tooling – a die or mould for embossing and enamel. It is paid once and stays for repeat orders.
- Button material – natural materials and metal cost more than polyester.
- Number of colours – with enamel and printing, each colour is a separate operation.
- Finish – on metal buttons, the plating colour and antiquing affect the price. See our colours and finishes.
- Quantity – set-up is spread over more pieces.
Which method for which garment
For shirts and blouses, laser engraving on mother-of-pearl, corozo or polyester works best – the logo is discreet and does not get in the way of buttoning. For jackets and coats – engraving on horn or corozo, or a metal button with a raised logo. For denim, the standard is metal buttons and rivets with an embossed logo. For childrenswear and knitwear – engraved polyester or snap buttons with the logo on the cap.
Sample and lead time
The sample depends on the product and usually costs around 50–100 €. With laser engraving it is quick, because no tooling is made. With embossing, the sample also shows the quality of the die. After approval, production takes 10–20 days. If a new die is made, its time is included in the plan and stated in the quote.
How to prepare your logo
We accept files in any format, but PDF or vector is best. Think about scale. A 15 mm button has a very small surface, so thin lines and small text get lost. A simplified version of the logo (monogram, symbol, initials) almost always looks better. For metal buttons also state the plating colour, and for snap buttons which part should carry the logo.
Common mistakes when ordering logo buttons
- A logo that is too detailed for a small diameter – the letters merge and the logo cannot be read.
- A different logo for every style – the minimum is multiplied and costs rise.
- Colour not specified – give a Pantone for enamel and the plating colour for metal.
- No sample – the look of engraving on a natural material varies. A sample shows the real result.
- A late inquiry – if a new die is needed, plan time for it before garment production starts.
Polkom – manufacturer of custom logo buttons
Polkom is a manufacturer of buttons and accessories with over 30 years of experience. We make logo buttons in corozo, horn, mother-of-pearl, wood, polyester and metal. Metal buttons are nickel-free, and all products are OEKO-TEX® certified. Send your logo and quantity with a request for a quote or sample and we will suggest the best method for your budget.
