We have been using this machine (not in 3" but in the more standard 2.25" button size)
http://stores.americanbuttonmachines...tail.bok?no=90
This machine has worked very well for several years... pretty bullet proof and we believe the best for the money
also compare the prices of this company to the others ... they are much cheaper from our experience...
1000 button sets (2.25" size)
Badge a minit $169.95 (includes shipping)
Dr. Don's $109.95 (+ $18.49 shipping) = $128.44
American button machines $59.95 (+29.14 shipping) = $89.09
all of these are with shipping to Seattle Washington so your shipping charges may vary...
Just be careful to get the right pinback sets for the size and machine you have. This company has pin backs for badgeaminit and the other machines.
Another item you might want to purchase is this punch..
http://stores.americanbuttonmachines...tail.bok?no=13
It will save you a TON of time cutting out button blanks..if you can afford it.
Whatever you do DON'T waste you time with the little hand-held button makers ... they will not really work well and you will have a hard time making consistent buttons...
We make something like 2000-3000 buttons each season using this little machine and punch...and a color copier...
Have fun
let me know if you have any questions...