Millybutton: The Babe Magnet by Industrial Design Company MAKO

Top product innovation and inspiration is a fascinating topic for us as an industrial design company. We’ve found, in many cases, the inspiration behind an invention idea is to solve a daily problem. It’s a problem the inventor is dedicated to improving for themselves, others close to them, or the whole market. This root of inspiration is particularly true for one of our clients, Millybutton.

Millybutton tutorial

Top Product Innovation and Inspiration

The concept of Millybutton was created by a mom who needed an extra hand when nursing, which led her to this top product innovation. Elizabeth Best, a designer herself, found there were too many obstacles when it came to breastfeeding. On a whim, Elizabeth’s mother used a chip-bag clip to hold up the nursing mother’s shirt. And thus, the Millybutton concept was born (pun intended). Que the Industrial Design Company!

Product Ideation + Industrial Design Company Connections = Babe Magnet

Once the duo realized this top product innovation’s potential, they knew what they needed next. They had to get in touch with an industrial design company to take their concept from ideation to market. But where to start? Who to start with? The power of networking really is infinite.

A connection our Founder, Kevin Mako, made while attending one of the most prestigious design schools in America was inspired by the “chip-bag clip”. He worked with Elizabeth and her mother on their concept but knew there was a firm that could take them to the next level. Proper introductions were made between Elizabeth and MAKO Invent, and the rest is history.

Millybutton product design

MAKO’s Top Product Innovation Solution

After three months of industrial design consults, 3D modelling, redesigns and review meetings, the solution was found. Millybutton would be made from silicone. The final top product innovation is simple, innovative and intuitive – key elements to our client’s success.

A magnetic clasp encloses a flexible silicone circle. Before nursing, the Millybutton was pulled apart at the magnet attachment. The bottom of the shirt is pulled up to the collar and the silicone is wrapped around the fabric, enclosed by the magnets. The product is designed to protect garments during nursing and promote skin on skin, and eye contact for bonding between mother and child. After nursing, the Millybutton has been aesthetically designed to double as a bracelet.

“It’s always great to design something for clients that have a clear vision for their product,” says Paul Davis, Senior Industrial Designer. “With the concept being so close to their hearts, it was touching how passionate they were about the product.”

Millybutton to Market

We’re proud to announce Millybutton has just launched their Indiegogo campaign. With 20% of their fundraising budget achieved and 14 days left on the campaign, we’re excited to see what comes next for our clients and here for them every step of the way!