What Materials Are Buttons Made Of?
Buttons are made from a wide variety of materials, offering unique qualities and aesthetics for apparel collections. These materials can be classified as natural or synthetic, each with its distinct characteristics.
Natural Materials
Plant-derived: Natural buttons made from materials such as coconut shell, bamboo, corozo (Tagua nut vegetable ivory), natural woven fabrics, and wood offer an organic and earthy look to garments. They are particularly suitable for natural fibers like linen, silk, and cotton, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the apparel.
Metal: Buttons made from metals like brass (copper/zinc alloy), stainless steel, and zinc alloy are known for their durability and are often used for heavy-weight fabrics such as denim and cotton twills. They add a touch of sophistication and strength to the garments.
Animal-derived: Materials such as bone, horn, leather, pearl, and shell are used to create buttons that exude a sense of luxury and elegance. These buttons are often employed in high-end fashion, especially for suits and formal wear, adding a touch of opulence to the apparel
Glass: Glass buttons offer a unique, delicate, and sometimes vintage aesthetic to garments. They are often used as decorative elements, adding a touch of refinement to various apparel pieces.
Synthetic Materials
Plastics or Recycled Plastics: Synthetic buttons made from materials like ABS, acrylic, and nylon offer versatility, as they can be mass-produced, have a uniform finish, and are relatively inexpensive. They are commonly used for a wide range of apparel due to their durability and dyeability.
Why would synthetic buttons be considered?
Synthetic buttons are considered for their versatility, durability, and cost-effectiveness. They can be mass-produced with a uniform finish, making them suitable for a wide range of apparel. Additionally, their dyeability allows for a variety of color options, making them a popular choice for designers seeking versatility and affordability in their collections.
What fabric materials are metal buttons used for?
Metal buttons, including those made of brass, stainless steel, and zinc alloy, are primarily used for heavy-weight fabrics such as denim and cotton twills. Their durability and sophisticated appearance make them ideal for adding a touch of strength and elegance to garments, especially in the case of denim and other sturdy fabrics.What fabric materials are best for buttons?
The best materials for buttons depend on the desired aesthetic, functionality, and the type of fabric they will be used with. Natural materials like coconut shell, bamboo, and wood offer an organic and earthy look, while metal buttons provide durability and sophistication, particularly for heavy-weight fabrics. Synthetic materials like ABS, acrylic, and nylon offer versatility, uniformity, and cost-effectiveness, making them suitable for a wide range of apparel.What are the highest quality buttons?
The highest quality buttons are often crafted from exquisite materials such as mother of pearl, crystal, corozo, and horn, each offering a luxurious and elegant touch to garments. Meticulously crafted and hand-inspected, these buttons ensure impeccable quality and durability, elevating the overall appeal of the apparel. Additionally, metal buttons in gold and silver add a sophisticated and timeless allure to various apparel pieces, making them a popular choice for those seeking a touch of refinement and strength in their garments.
In conclusion, the choice of button material plays a significant role in defining the overall look, feel, and functionality of apparel, making it essential for designers to carefully consider the qualities and characteristics of different button materials when creating their collections.
It’s a great idea to speak with a button company’s representative to answer any questions. You can also set-up a meeting to view different qualities and request samples before making a bulk purchasing decision.
If you'd like to explore button qualities with Bloom Will, click here to contact us today and we can discuss button qualities further with custom designs.