Button Research

Part of the irresistible allure of recreating buttons lies in the breathtaking beauty of the originals. I often find myself scouring the internet or wandering through the incredible storerooms of museums, captivated by these enchanting buttons. Thanks to the wonders of the digital age, I can immerse myself in the stunning buttons showcased at the Victoria and Albert Museum in the UK, The Met in NYC, and countless other extraordinary museums across the globe. I will share links to these remarkable resources on the links page, inviting you to explore this vibrant world with me!

As a member of the National Button Society and several state societies, I’m fortunate to attend many button shows in the region. These gatherings offer incredible opportunities to study original textile buttons firsthand. Whenever I come across a particularly noteworthy piece, I’ll share it here.

Habitat buttons

The large photo of the button with the blue/green insect was seen for sale by Tender Buttons at the NY State Button Society Show 5/2026 in Binghamton, NY. The other three buttons were found online at Hanson’s Button Barn Auctions. They all feature natural moss or grasses, seeds and insects under glass. These are my latest research tangent. Hopefully, my own habitat buttons will be posted in the shop soon!

Western Reserve Historical Society

The following photos are buttons on extant clothing at the Western Reserve Historical Society in Cleveland, Ohio. You can find more information here: Western Reserve Historical Society : Explore the tangible history of Northeast Ohio.

1800-1820

1830’s

1860’s

1870’s

1880

1890’s

1900’s

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