Creating Dorset Buttons: A Classic Craft Made New

by Pat Olski

Named for the southwest county on the coast of the English Channel, Dorset buttons date back to the seventeenth century. The practice of button-making — involving a technique somewhere between needlepoint and knotting or lacemaking — dates back to the 17th century and is enjoying a resurgence today. Creating distinctive, handmade buttons holds an irresistible charm for modern-day knitting, sewing, and needlepoint aficionados as well as jewelry makers, and this inspiring, easy-to-follow guide is exactly the book to show how it's done.
Author Pat Olski provides a history of the craft as well as beautifully photographed instructions for 30 variations on the basic procedure. Many of these jewel-like items resemble tiny canvases embellished with images of flowers and animals. Detailed directions offer a clear approach to re-creating the centuries-old craft and adding a personal flair to modern garments and accessories.

96 pages, Paperback

Published February 12, 2020

About the author

Hi,

I am a professional needlework designer and teacher who is always amazed at the incredible things that can be made out of thread, and I love to share the wonder.

I have written nine needle craft books and contributed to twenty two knitting books and my work has been featured on a number of yarn and embroidery thread company websites. My knitting, crocheting, button, and embroidery designs and articles have been frequently published in magazines including Vogue Knitting, Vogue Knitting Crochet, Knit Simple, Noro Knitting Magazine, Piecework, and Australia’s Inspirations embroidery magazine.

I am excited to have another Dorset button book that will be published by the end of 2021, and am working on a Swedish embroidery book that is scheduled for 2022.

I live in New Jersey, and have two boys who grew up hearing— "Just a minute, I need to finish this row!". You can find me at YarnWhirled.com and as Northeastknitter on Ravelry.

Pat