Inspiration Monday: Buttons

Buttons, both new and old, have always fascinated me. For some reason, I am compelled to buy them. Perhaps it stems from my childhood when I would visit my grandmother and she would have dozens of old mason jars filled with antique buttons lined up below her sideboard. Or perhaps it is the obsessed crafter in me who sees so many possibilities with these little objects. 

Part of the fascination with buttons is the variety in their design and shape. The can be flat, rounded, embossed, embedded, or even fabric covered. Some of the old Czech glass buttons are true works of art, a treasure to behold. Because of their multitude and variety, they present many diverse options for the imaginative jewelry designer. 

In this bracelet by Andrea, she used a button as part of the clasp. It provides just the right amount of hardware to this beautiful wrapped bracelet. You can see how Andrea made the bracelet and the button clasp here. 

Here is a ring I made just last week using a Steampunk themed button, some silver Gilders Paste, and a glue-on ring. It was quick and easy, yet the results look complex and professional. A free project and even a Find Out Friday will be coming soon on this piece. 

I found this lovely bracelet on Etsy by designer Allies Adornments. She uses antique buttons from the 1800's to create a stunning piece of jewelry. She chose buttons all of a similar age and theme - I wonder which button was her original inspiration which she built off of? 

Here is an excellent example which incorporates layers of buttons assembled into a bib style necklace. Her color choices are lovely and shows us that you can add a variety of shapes, colors, and sizes to the same piece of jewelry. This piece was done by Etsy designer Angie Neal and is in the shop Hanging By A Thread 1.

Last but certainly not least, is this amazing beadwoven and embroidered focal piece by Andrea. She used a vintage button as the centerpiece and her style inspiration. Still to be determined is if this becomes a necklace, headpiece, or brooch. You can find Andrea's jewelry creations for sale on her Etsy shop Noon Blue Apples. 

Here are some very helpful findings Beadaholique has available to use when working with buttons: 

I hope you feel compelled to pull out your button bin and have some fun; and next time you are about to toss out that worn shirt, pop off the buttons and turn them into fabulous jewelry!

- Julie