DIY Badge Reels: Quick and Easy Steps to Make Your Own

Badge reels are great accessory options for anyone working in an office or any professional setting. They are useful in holding identification cards, security passes, and even personal items like keys and small tools. While badge reels are available in stores, it is possible to make them at home using simple materials and tools. In this article, we will share how you can make badge reels in a few easy steps.

The first step in making a badge reel is to gather materials. You will need a retractable reel, a flat or split ring, a decorative button, fabric or ribbon, glue or thread, and a pair of scissors. Once you have all your materials, you can start designing and creating your personalized badge reel. Follow these simple instructions to make your own custom-designed badge reels at home with ease.

Introduction:
Badge reels are a great way to display identification cards. They are perfect for those who need to display their ID frequently, such as nurses, teachers, and office workers. Badge reels come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but you can also make your very own according to your preference. In this article, we will guide you on how to make your badge reels.

Materials for Making Badge Reels:

Materials You Need

Before you start making your badge reel, you will need to gather the following materials:
1. Badge reel blanks
2. Epoxy Stickers
3. Flatback Resin
4. Glitter
5. Jewels or Rhinestones
6. Mod Podge
7. Paintbrushes
8. Scissors
9. Silicone Mold
10. Small Plastic Cups

Step 1: Painting the Badge Reel Blanks

The first step is to paint the badge reel blanks with mod podge. You can use any color paint you like, depending on your preference. Once the mod podge has been applied, let the badges dry for about 10 minutes or until the paint has cured.

Step 2: Adding Glitter

After the mod podge has dried, it’s time to add some sparkle to your badge reels. Take some glitter and sprinkle it over the mod podge painted side of the badge reels. Once you’ve covered the badges in glitter, let them dry for a few minutes.

Step 3: Applying Epoxy Stickers and Flatback Resin

Once the glitter has dried, it’s time to add the epoxy sticker to the badge reels. Choose your design, peel it off the sticker sheet, and apply it to the badge reel. Then, mix some flatback resin in a small plastic cup and pour it over the sticker. Let the resin dry according to the package instructions.

Step 4: Adding Jewels or Rhinestones

After the resin has dried, it’s time to add some jewels or rhinestones to your badge reels. You can choose to add them one by one, or you can use a silicone mold to add them in bulk. Place a jewel or rhinestone on the badge reel where you want it, then apply a layer of resin over it. Continue this process until you have all the jewels or rhinestones you desire on your badge reel.

Step 5: Final Touches

Let the resin dry completely before using your badge reel. Once it’s completely dry, you can add any additional touches you prefer. You can add a keyring or clip to the back of the badge reel, and you’re ready to use it!

Tips and Tricks

Here are some tips and tricks to keep in mind when making your badge reels:

1. Take your time when making your badge reels. Rushing can lead to mistakes.
2. Use a silicone mold to make adding jewels and rhinestones easier.
3. Make sure to mix your resin and hardener according to the package instructions.
4. If you don’t have epoxy stickers, you can also use photos or images printed on glossy paper.
5. Be creative with your designs and have fun making your badge reels.

Conclusion

Making your badge reels is an easy and fun process. With a few materials and some creativity, you can make your badge reels that are unique to your preferences. Show off your chic style with your very own handmade badge reels!

10 Steps to Make Badge Reels

Badge reels are tool used to keep identification cards and keys securely in place on a person’s body. Not only are they functional, but they can also be made into stylish accessories. Here are the 10 easy steps to make badge reels.

Step 1: Choose the Right Materials

Before getting started on making a badge reel, the materials must be gathered. A basic reel consists of a badge holder, a cord, a reel case and a glue gun.

Step 2: Preparing the Badge Holder

To prepare the badge holder, start by removing any clips or pins attached to it. The reel case can now be glued onto the back of the badge holder with the glue gun.

Step 3: The Cord

The cord will be used to connect the badge holder and the reel case. Choose a cord with a durable material to ensure the longevity of the badge reel.

Step 4: Measuring and Cutting the Cord

Take a measuring tape and measure the distance between the badge holder and the reel case. Cut the cord accordingly.

Step 5: Attaching the Cord to the Badge Holder

After cutting the cord, tie it around the top of the badge holder. Secure it in place with a dot of glue from your hot glue gun.

Step 6: Attaching the Cord to the Reel Case

To attach the cord to the reel case, create a loop around the reel case. Secure it in place with a dot of glue from the hot glue gun.

Step 7: Designing the Badge Reel

Designing the badge reel is where creativity comes into play. Consider adding embellishments, such as beads or fabric, to give the badge reel a unique and personalized touch.

Step 8: Adding the Design Elements

Using the hot glue gun, attach the design elements to the cord or badge holder. Take your time and be careful with the glue gun to avoid any burns.

Step 9: Let the Glue Cool

After attaching all elements, it’s important to let the glue cool completely before using the badge reel. This will ensure that everything is securely attached in place.

Step 10: Use the Badge Reel

Now that the badge reel is complete, it’s time to put it to good use. Attach the badge reel to your identification card or keys to keep them close and easily accessible.

In conclusion, making badge reels is a simple and creative way to personalize your identification card or keys. Follow these 10 easy steps to start making your own badge reels today. Get creative and have fun with it!

Materials Needed for Making Badge Reels

Making badge reels can be an exciting and creative process. The first few steps are critical in ensuring the successful creation of a badge reel. Before making a badge reel, it is essential to gather all the necessary materials to avoid running out of the supply midway. Below are the materials required to create a badge reel:

Preparing the Badge Reel

The first step in making a badge reel is to prepare the badge reel by detaching the clip at the back. Hold the badge reel with one hand and use another hand to detach the clip from the back. The next step is to remove the white film from the flatback button.

Creating the Design

To create unique and customized designs for the badge reel, grab the flatback button and design elements such as stickers, graphics, and embellishments. Place the chosen design inside the flatback button, ensuring that it is centered and fits correctly. Once the design is in place, place the epoxy sticker on top of the flatback button and press down gently.

Attaching the Flatback Button to the Badge Reel

Once the design is completed, it is time to attach the flatback button to the badge reel. Apply glue on the back of the flatback button and carefully attach it to the badge reel. Press down gently and hold it for a few seconds to ensure that the bond is secure.

Reassembling the Badge Reel

After attaching the flatback button, reassemble the badge reel by attaching the clip back to the badge reel’s back. Ensure that the clip is securely attached to the badge reel and test the badge reel by pulling the retractable cord. If the badge reel extends and retracts smoothly, then the badge reel is ready for use.

In conclusion, making badge reels is a fun and straightforward process that requires minimal effort and resources. It is essential to gather all the necessary materials, prepare the badge reel, design the flatback button, attach the flatback button to the badge reel, and reassemble the badge reel. By following these simple steps, you can create unique and personalized badge reels that are perfect for events, conferences, and work.

Thanks for Reading!

I hope this article was helpful and inspired you to make your own badge reels. It’s a fun and practical way to showcase your personality in the workplace. Remember to use your creativity and have fun with it! Don’t forget to visit again for more DIY ideas and inspiration. Happy crafting!