Abstract: A method and apparatus for molding a plastic cap on a preformed metallic shank includes inserting the shank on a strip material by a shank insertion device such that a head of the shank is elevated above the strip material. A molding device, having an open mold cavity is engaged with the strip material such that the strip material acts as a portion of the mold. The elevated head is positioned within the cavity. Plastic is injected into the mold cavity to surround and encapsulate the button head.

Abstract: An apparatus for molding a plastic cap onto a pre-formed metallic shank includes a shank insertion device for inserting the shank onto a carrier member such that a head of the shank is elevated above the carrier member. A molding device, having an open mold cavity engages the carrier member such that the carrier member acts as a portion of the mold. A contour forming device can be used to form raised contours in said carrier member prior to the insertion of said shanks at said shank insertion device. A feeder mechanism is provided for drawing the carrier member through the contour forming device, the shank insertion device, and the molding device.

Abstract: A method for molding plastic caps onto preformed metallic shanks, the metallic shanks having a head portion and a leg portion, wherein the leg portion of the shanks are inserted into a carrier member leaving a portion of the head portion elevated from the carrier member. A molding device is thereafter engaged with the carrier member over the head of the shank to form a molding cavity therearound. Plastic is then injected into the mold cavity to surround and encapsulate the head portion. The mold cavity is thereafter open and the completed capped shank is removed from the carrier member. The carrier member can comprise an elongated strip which can be pulled through work stations performing the various forming, inserting and injecting steps in regulated fashion.