What is National Button Day?

National Button Day, celebrated annually on November 16th in the United States, is a unique day dedicated to appreciating buttons and the art of button collecting. Established in 1938 by the National Button Society, this day recognizes buttons not only as functional fasteners but also as decorative and collectible items with historical significance. Button enthusiasts and collectors celebrate this day by showcasing their collections, discussing button history, and exploring the variety of designs, materials, and craftsmanship in button making.

Buttons have been used for centuries, not only as fasteners but as intricate pieces of art and fashion. National Button Day highlights the beauty, history, and diversity of buttons, making it a day to celebrate small details that add both style and function to our everyday lives.

History and Origin

National Button Day was created by the National Button Society in 1938 to promote the hobby of button collecting and to bring attention to the cultural and historical importance of buttons. Founded during a time when button collecting was growing in popularity, the society aimed to create a community for collectors and enthusiasts. National Button Day quickly became an annual celebration, encouraging people to look at buttons in a new way, not just as functional items but as pieces of art and history.

Since its inception, the day has continued to grow, with collectors, crafters, and museums all joining in the festivities to showcase and preserve the history of button-making and design.

Who Celebrates National Button Day?

• Button Collectors and Hobbyists: Collectors celebrate by displaying their button collections, often showcasing rare or unique finds that highlight the history and variety in button design.
• Crafters and Artists: Many artists and crafters celebrate by creating button-themed art, using buttons in creative projects such as jewelry, mosaics, and home decor.
• Historical Societies and Museums: These institutions participate by hosting exhibitions or events that highlight the cultural and historical significance of buttons in fashion and everyday life.
• Fashion Enthusiasts and Designers: Individuals in the fashion world appreciate the craftsmanship of buttons and celebrate by learning about the role buttons have played in garment design and fashion history.
• Textile and Design Students: Many students use this day to study the intricacies of button design, the materials used, and the evolution of buttons in fashion and practical applications.

Slogans and Themes

National Button Day focuses on themes of appreciation, creativity, and history. Popular slogans include “Button Up Your Creativity,” celebrating the artistic side of button crafts, and “Small but Significant,” emphasizing the important role buttons have played in fashion and function. Another theme is “Every Button Tells a Story,” highlighting the historical and cultural aspects of button collecting. The overall message of the day is to recognize and appreciate the charm, utility, and artistry of buttons.

Colors, Symbols, and Patterns

Colors

• Varied Colors: Representing the diversity of buttons, there is no single color associated with the day. Buttons come in every shade, so celebrations often embrace a colorful display.
• Metallic and Neutral Tones: Common in vintage and historical buttons, these tones reflect traditional and classic button designs.
• Bright Primaries: Used in button art and crafts, bright colors highlight the playful, creative aspect of button collecting.

Symbols

• Button Icons: Buttons in various shapes and sizes symbolize the diversity and creativity in button designs.
• Sewing Needle and Thread: Representing the crafting aspect, these symbols emphasize the handmade and artistic nature of button creations.
• Heart or Circle Shape: Often used in button art, these shapes symbolize the sentimentality and charm associated with collecting buttons.

Patterns

• Circular Patterns: Reflecting the shape of most buttons, circular patterns emphasize the iconic and traditional appearance of buttons.
• Floral and Vintage Motifs: Many vintage buttons feature detailed designs and floral patterns, representing the intricate craftsmanship.
• Mosaic and Grid Patterns: Arranged in grids or mosaics, these patterns showcase button collections and add a visual impact to displays.

How to Celebrate National Button Day

National Button Day offers a variety of ways to get involved, whether you’re a seasoned collector or simply someone with an appreciation for details:

• Start a Button Collection: Begin collecting buttons from old clothes, thrift stores, or craft shops. Each button can add a new story to your collection.
• Create Button Crafts: Use buttons to make jewelry, decorate picture frames, or create button art. Crafting with buttons is a great way to explore creativity and make unique, personalized items.
• Attend or Host a Button Show: Many local crafting groups or historical societies organize button shows or meetups. Attending one can be an excellent way to learn more and connect with other enthusiasts.
• Visit a Museum Exhibition: Some museums host exhibitions or displays of historical buttons, showcasing their evolution over the centuries. These exhibits often provide fascinating insights into fashion and material culture.
• Share Your Collection on Social Media: Use hashtags like #NationalButtonDay to post photos of your collection, crafts, or favorite button finds, helping to spread the love of buttons to a broader audience.

Why is National Button Day Important?

National Button Day is important because it celebrates the small yet meaningful role buttons play in our daily lives. While buttons may seem insignificant, they carry a rich history and showcase incredible variety and craftsmanship. Buttons reflect changes in fashion, material technology, and design trends over time, and they provide a glimpse into the history of textiles and garment-making.

This day also brings together collectors and enthusiasts, creating a community around a shared passion for details, history, and creativity. National Button Day highlights the artistry, functionality, and charm of buttons, inspiring new collectors and craftspeople to appreciate the beauty in everyday objects.