My favorite buttons are the really old ones that, if you’re lucky, you might find at the bottom of your button bin. They’re made of real shell, with chips and discolorations and irregularities. I love the patina that they’ve developed from the many years of washings and handling that has worn much of the shine from their surfaces. Once upon a time I might have passed them over when looking for a suitable button; they’re mis-matched and, at first glance, don’t appear to be anything special. But now those imperfections and irregularities appeal to me. I like to recycle them to use on samples; a bit of old mixed in with the new that gives the clothes extra character and interest.
