What Are Fancy Buttons Made Of?

(From Shell & Wood to Rhinestones, Glass & Vintage Treasures)

Fancy buttons are more than fasteners—they’re miniature works of art that can transform an outfit or give your sewing projects a couture edge. But what exactly are they made of? Let’s explore the fascinating world of materials behind fancy shirt buttons for ladies, rustic fancy wooden buttons, bold large fancy buttons, sparkling fancy rhinestone buttons, and timeless fancy glass buttons.

1. Natural & Heritage Materials

• Mother-of-Pearl (Shell): Iridescent, elegant, and historically the material of choice for women’s shirt buttons. Each piece is cut and polished from mollusk shells, ensuring natural shine.

• Corozo (Tagua Nut): Eco-friendly “vegetable ivory” with a smooth finish and natural patterns. Durable and classy—ideal for everyday shirts.

• Horn & Bone: Warm tones, hand-carved, polished, and full of character.

• Wood: From olive to bamboo, wood buttons give a rustic, earthy charm. Perfect for knitwear, coats, or oversized statement looks.

Shop Fancy Wooden Buttons →

2. Sparkle & Glass: Rhinestones and Czech Treasures

• Rhinestone Buttons: Made from cut glass crystals, often set in metal frames. These buttons catch the light and are beloved for bridal gowns, clutches, and glamorous eveningwear.

• Pressed & Molded Glass (Czech Glass): Bohemian workshops mastered the art of pressed glass buttons in the 19th century. Today, vintage glass buttons are highly collectible for their intricate motifs and shimmering finishes.

Shop Fancy Rhinestone Buttons →
Shop Fancy Glass Buttons →

3. Vintage Plastics & Retro Charm

• Casein/Galalith (“Milk Plastic”): Made from milk proteins, this early plastic has a smooth, pearly look—perfect for vintage-style blouses.

• Bakelite & Catalin: Brightly colored, chunky, and a collector’s favorite. Often used for large fancy buttons that double as statement jewelry.

• Lucite & Acrylic: Lightweight and versatile, common in mid-century designs.

Discover Vintage Buttons →

4. Metals & Covered Buttons

• Metal Buttons: Brass, pewter, and steel give weight and authority—great for blazers, uniforms, and bold coats.

• Fabric-Covered Buttons: A couture touch for dresses and jackets, often matching or contrasting fabric for a seamless look.

5. Choosing the Right Fancy Button

• Fancy Shirt Buttons for Ladies: Shell, corozo, or polished resin for elegance and daily wear.

• Fancy Wooden Buttons: Rustic charm—best for coats, knitwear, or bags.

• Large Fancy Buttons: Oversized glass, Bakelite, or metal pieces to make a statement.

• Fancy Rhinestone Buttons: Evening sparkle—bridal gowns, sashes, or clutches.

• Fancy Glass Buttons: Collectible Czech treasures—perfect for heirloom projects or jewelry-making.

Caring for Fancy Buttons

• Shell, Horn, Wood: Keep dry, polish lightly, avoid soaking.

• Rhinestone & Glass: Hand-wash garments inside-out, avoid tumble drying.

• Vintage Plastics: No hot water, no solvents—handle gently to preserve shine.

Whether you’re sewing a blouse, upgrading a coat, or creating jewelry, fancy buttons are your secret design weapon. Choose natural shell for timeless shirts, carved wood for earthy charm, rhinestones for sparkle, and Czech glass for a piece of history. Shop now and let your buttons steal the show.

Explore All Fancy Buttons 

External Resources

• National Button Society – History, education, and button collecting.

• National Pearl Button Museum – Story of shell buttons in Iowa.

• History of Czech Glass Buttons – Origins of pressed glass button-making.