Question on button machines.

[MinUph]

This is a Handy Jr. I have never seen one like this and don't know if it is the same as the models that have the exposed spring. I wonder if any of you may have seen this model and if the regular dies will fit this model?
  Thanks.

[Dede]

This machine is the Handy Jr. No. 20.

The No. 20 was originally manufactured to meet the heavy demands of factory production upholstery.  It fell out of favor as pneumatic button machines took over, and Handy ceased making it in the 1990's.

It is a heavier duty machine than the No. 1 (which was designed for small custom shops).  All domestic button dies, including Handy, Osborne, C&C, Defiance, Wade, and Maxant, will fit it.

Hope that helps!  

[Dede]

One more thing...

If you're looking to buy this machine, be aware that it has probably seen hard use in a factory setting -- more than a No. 1 normally would.  Make sure the pin screw isn't too worn to hold the plate.  Handy is no longer manufacturing pins that fit the No. 20, and you would have to have one custom made.

Osborne pins don't fit it either -- we tried.

[MinUph]

Dede,
  Yes it does help Thank you for the quick reply.

  Just read your "one more thing" I do have a chance to get this cheap. Now I wonder if it worthwhile. It's an ebay item.

[Dede]

Well... the plate is in place -- that's a good sign.  You can certainly ask if the screw threads are holding it securely.

I looked up the auction.  The fact that he offers returns, and seems to know a little about button dies, is encouraging.

[MinUph]

Dede,
  Are you refering to the screw on the base of the machine that would hold the dies in? Or the plate being the end of the plunger?

[Dede]

Plunger = pin (bottom end is threaded)

Plate = round metal disc that screws onto the plunger/pin


After all this time, the plate may actually be frozen in place, or it may be falling off because the threads are worn -- either one is possible.  Avoid machines with worn threads.  Frozen is probably okay, but ask him to check.

[Baker]

 Just had to look.....how much throat clearance is there? My first impression is that it's a dedicated cutter. That being said, I'm not the button expert that Dede is either. It's pretty cool looking. Very streamlined.

[MinUph]

Baker,
  That is one of the questions I asked the seller. I will know when it gets here. I'm fairly certain it is a commercial version of the  Model 1.

[Dede]

My first impression is that it's a dedicated cutter.

That's an excellent observation -- the No. 20 does actually resemble a hand-operated cutting machine.


Most independent upholsterers have never seen a No. 20 because they were used almost exclusively in factory settings.  I think they're starting to appear on eBay because factories are liquidating their domestic operations.

[MinUph]

 Well Dede and Baker,

  I received the machine today and it is great. It will do the job and do it well. All parts are unworn, including the pin screw. I gave it a good oiling and will clean it up over the weekend. It has a slight amount of surface rust. More like rust dust if you know what I mean.
  See you at the shop Baker.

[Dede]

You got a fantastic machine at a great price - congratulations!

It has a slight amount of surface rust. More like rust dust if you know what I mean.

I don't know what other people use, but emery cloth and mineral spirits have served me well.  And lots of rags and Q-Tips.

[Baker]

Dede,
 That's what ya call patina. It's a good thing.

[Dede]

That's what ya call patina.

Nah... I just call it rust...