Button, Button, Who's Got The Button?

Today I went to the library and was surprised to see an exhibit of antique buttons. The display was sponsored by the local historic society. I am enchanted by buttons so I took some pictures with my phone, which doesn't take the best quality photos. Because the buttons were in a glass case, I also got reflections in the pictures. Mainly of lights but sometimes, I can see my red sweater reflected in the shot.

I collect vintage buttons and sometimes use them when I reimagine an item for my etsy shop. I especially love mother of pearl buttons which is actually abalone shell. Therefore, they are already reimagined when they come into my hand because once upon a time they were a sea shell and now it is a button. My favorites are the carved ones.

These are the pictures I took at the library...............................

 

 

 

 

 

There were lots more in the button exhibit but difficult for me to get photos of with two books, a cup of coffee and my purse in my hand in addition to the camera/phone. I saw so many buttons that I also have in my collection. Mainly celluloid. Here's a brief history of the celluloid button.

http://www.tedhake.com/viewuserdefinedpage.aspx?pn=buttonhistory


Enjoy a little peek of some of the buttons in my own personal button collection:

A great variety - carved metal turtle, cloisonné, a RailRoad conductor's button- jet glass among them

 

All on cards - love the graphics - and the prices - 10 cents and 25 cents

They are a very rare "find" today. I used to find "Mom's button tin" at estate sales years ago. The entire tin would be about $5.00. But not any longer. Now the sale manager removes the buttons from the tin and separates them all out into small plastic bags. The valuable and special ones are packaged and sold individually !!! I'm so glad I got my stash many, many moons ago.