From HAS Novelties to Button Bros: Canada’s Original Custom Button Maker

From HAS Novelties to Button Bros: Canada’s Original Custom Button Maker

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From HAS Novelties to Button Bros: Canada’s Original Custom Button Maker

When you hold a pin-back button, you’re holding a slice of Canadian design history. Our story starts in Toronto in the 1970s with HAS Novelties LTD—and continues today as Button Bros, making custom buttons and apparel for clients across Canada and the USA.

Vintage HAS Novelties pin-back buttons made in Canada (1970s–1990s)
Vintage pins from the HAS Novelties era, proudly made in Canada.

Canada’s First Custom Button Manufacturer

Founded in the 1970s, HAS Novelties was Canada’s first dedicated custom button manufacturer. Through the 70s, 80s, and 90s, our presses ran nonstop for political campaigns, product launches, charities, universities—and the booming rock-and-roll scene.

Fun tip for collectors: flip a vintage pin and check the edge. If you see “Made in Canada by HAS NOVELTIES”, you’re holding one of ours.

Rock Bands, Big Brands & Ballparks

During those decades we produced millions of promotional and tour buttons—supplying major Canadian and U.S. rock bands, national campaigns for brands like McDonald’s, and game-day giveaways for teams including the Toronto Blue Jays.

Button Bros Today: Same Craft, Modern Options

Today we continue that legacy as Button Bros—offering premium custom buttons with fast, friendly service and Canada-wide shipping.

Looking for more than buttons? We also make custom magnets, stickers, and button packs with retail-ready backer cards.

How to Spot an Authentic HAS Novelties Button

  • Rim Text: Look for “Made in Canada by HAS NOVELTIES” along the edge.
  • Metal Build: Classic steel shell with safety-pin back.
  • Era Vibes: Bold tour art, bright spot colours, political slogans of the day.

Make Your Own (the Easy Way)

Whether it’s for a tour, campaign, gallery opening, or school club, we’ll help you create buttons that pop. Start with our bestsellers, or reach out for help—art cleanup is always free.

FAQ

Do you still make buttons in Canada?
Yes—our production is based in Canada with 2–3 business day standard turnaround (plus shipping). See the FAQ for details.
Is there a minimum order?
No minimums. Order one for a proof or thousands for a national campaign. Browse sizes.
Can you help with artwork?
Absolutely. Upload what you have and we’ll set it up for print at no charge. See file tips.
Do you offer bulk/wholesale pricing?
Yes. Tiered pricing and fast production for agencies, labels, and teams. Learn more on our Wholesale Custom Buttons page.

From the presses of HAS Novelties in 1970s Toronto to Button Bros today—thanks for letting our buttons tell your stories.

Ready when you are: Get in touch or start your order on Custom Buttons.