*How to Make Tiny Buttons

I make my own buttons from Polymer Clay. What you do is go to a train shop and purchase two lengths of brass tubing. The inside of the larger tube is the diameter of the finished button. The smaller tube (which should be solid, and is a rod, not really a tube) fits inside the outside tube.

Cut the outside tube to about 4" long being careful not to distort. Cut the inside rod to about 5" long. Wind tape around one end of the rod so it is easier to hold and will not fall through the tube.

Roll out the PC to the thickness you want for the button. I roll out my PC on parchment paper. Punch out a button with the tube, then without raising the tube, put the rod inside and press. This will give a raised rim to your button. You need to experiment with the pressure you use.

Very carefully lift the button from the sheet of PC, and very carefully use the rod to push the finished button out on to a tray for baking. Let the button(s) dry so that they will be firm, and then use either a pin vise or a sewing needle to make the two holes. If you let the buttons get firm enough, a pin vise works well.

Then bake according to the PC directions.

Thanks to Sharon de Vries for adding the following ideas:

I have made square buttons with the same brass tubing, thanks for the idea about making a rim around the button.
Also placing plastic wrap over the sheet of clay before pressing down with the tubing gives a rounded edge to the button. Just makes them all a little different.

I use a stylus tool by "pergermano" for the button holes or an empty ball point pen.

Also if you "burn" the buttons they are stronger. Bake the buttons for the length of time on the packet, turn up the heat to 180 degrees. DO NOT MOVE AWAY FROM THE OVEN. Best to have a separate oven thermometer, watch until the heat reaches 180 degrees then turn off the oven and open the door.