As you are hopefully aware by now, we recently launched the Build-a-Button Online Design Center, which we believe is the best piece of online button making software ever. That was the goal when we set out to design it, and we continue to seek ways to improve it now that is it launched in the free beta testing period.

We are very, very, very appreciative of everyone who has taken the time to use the Build-a-Button application and leave us constructive feedback on what works, what doesn’t, what rocks, and what could be improved. Believe us when we say that we have taken your comments to heart, reading each one carefully, and that is why we want to let you know about the many enhancements – many inspired by you – that have been made to the web’s best button design software in an effort to make the Build-a-Button Online Design Center even better!

Here is what is new and improved:

Browser Compatibility

The Build-a-Button app now works with IE, Safari, and Google Chrome, so test it and let us know your results.

Colors

We added new default colors, palette, and custom color picker

Background Images

We added a background button that will lock background images into place instead of fighting with images moving around in layers. You can still move background photos up, down, left, right, and rotate.

Text in a Circle

We have perfected text in a circle!

You have now the option of “up curve”, “down curve”, full circle, and how the letters are spaced. Based on your feedback this is huge, and we’re very excited about it.

The upwards curve arc allows you to enter text at the bottom of the button. Using this option, you can extend the text outside the red image area for your tag line. Add your website, phone number and more to the back edge of the button for free advertising.

Layers

We perfected the layers function so you can simply click the items to bring them to the front or manually select them and use the “Bring to Front” or “Send to Back” buttons.

Display Size

We enlarged the default size of the screen display on smaller buttons so it is easier to design and read them. They will, of course, print the correct size.

Fonts

Added 20 more fonts for 20 times as much fun!

Formatting

We added a ”C” centering button option to bring items back to the center.

Lifesaving

Based on popular demand, we are working on an “undo” button that will be released with the next version.

Sharing

We added social media sharing buttons for Google +1, Facbook, StumbleUpon, and Twitter to the Build-a-Button. Click on them to share the application with your crafts-loving friends!

Publicity

You can submit the buttons you deign and we will publish them on the blog, as we did here. If you have one, we will add a link to your website for free advertising so people can buy your buttons (and the SEO boost that comes with a link).

How-to Vids

Will be adding in-depth How-to videos in the future to teach you all of the fun nuances of the Build-a-Button application.

And…that’s about it. Again, thank you all for taking advantage of the free beta period and helping us to work out the kinks to make best even better. They are much fewer and further between now, and we are excited about all of the beautiful buttons being facilitated by the Build-a-Button application.

Now go keep on designing!

Brighid Brown – Director of Blogging and All Things Cool at ABM