Buttons: The Collector's Guide to Selecting, Restoring, and Enjoying New and Vintage Buttons

by Nancy Fink

As a functional accessory and fashion statement, the button has become a miniature masterpiece. Accordingly, a great deal of talent and imagination has been lavished on its appearance and placement. Buttons have always reflected the tastes of the times. They display the shifting movements in fashion, materials, and manufacturing techniques. From the humble to the extravagant, buttons reveal the humor, artistry, and motivation of their makers and wearers. Buttons have become highly desirable collectibles. In this beautifully illustrated guide, Nancy Fink and Maryalice Ditzler trace the historical background of the button, from classical times to the present day. Hundreds of buttons from all over the world are presented and categorized according to Fabric and Cloth, Metal, Glass, Ceramic, Enamel, Natural Materials, and Plastic. Separate chapters describe uniform buttons and other button collectibles. Because most items presented in this practical guide are within reach of collectors, A Collectors Guide will encourage you to embark on a collecting venture of your own.

80 pages, Hardcover

First published March 1, 1994