Hobbies And Interests
Things You'll Need
Instructions
Visit the library or local bookstore to research antique buttons to get a starting point for your collection. Learn the value of certain buttons and know what to consider when buying, such as a button's condition or rarity.
Decide on a button theme to narrow down choices. Focus on materials such as glass, celluloid or hand-painted porcelain. Limit the collection to a specific locale such as France, Austria or China. Search for inaugural, circus or children's fables or stick to a time in history such as the Civil War.
Join the National Button Society or the online button club, Button Bytes (see "Resource" for more information). In addition, locate a regional club in your area such as the California State Button Society, Connecticut State Button Society or Missouri State Button Society. Once you join, sign up for newsletters and bulletins.
Connect with other enthusiasts through online forums such as Antique Buttons Galore and Yahoo! groups such as Button Lovers or Calico Kids, which is geared for the younger set.
Acquire antique buttons through auction houses such as Armchair Auctions or Bella Button Auctions (see "Resource" for links). Both online sites allow bidders to participate in a traditional auction in real time. Preview items beforehand and study the images and descriptions carefully.
Attend button conventions. Most regional societies sponsor an annual event that is open to the public and includes mini workshops. These events provide an opportunity for hobbyists to purchase antique buttons from dealers and have their collections appraised.
Explore thrift shops, garage and estate sales. Don't limit the search to jars and card-backed buttons. Consider vintage clothing and accessories, such as gloves. Poke in jewelry bins for antique finds that incorporate buttons into the design.
Rummage through grandma's button box or old tins. Look for antique buttons in attics and forgotten trunks (with permission) on discarded or forgotten garments.