Dorset Buttons

 Linen on left and right; wool in center.                                                                               

    Many other  pattern variants also available. There were over 100 patterns utilized during commercial production.

    In historical usage, the Dorset buttonwas used predominantly on shirts and on children's garments, and made from white linen. They were also used on waistcoats and on early nineteenth century muslin gowns.

      The buttons were constructed by  wrapping and stitching the linen thread around a non-rusting alloy metal ring. A few black "mourning"  Singleton buttons were also produced during the Dorset button's heyday. 

              Handmade Dorset buttons was a thriving cottage industry in England from the late 1680's until around 1850, when the process was mechanized. The mechanically made buttons are slightly different in pattern, but were still in use until about the time of the First World War.

     In modern usage, Dorset buttons are a popular hobby craft in England, and can be made into jewelry, or matching buttons for handmade sweaters.

    "Singleton" shirt button (made with linen fabric and thread)

        These can be plain (as shown) or have a few french knots as a center decoration

 (Actual size: 1/2")

         Singleton buttons are also normally available for prompt shipment.

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Larger size Dorset buttons are custom order items;

5/8", 3/4", and 1" sizes are currently available.

     $25.00

     Written by one of the foremost authorities on Dorset buttons. Until now, the only source of her research on the history of the Dorset button was a rare, out-of-print pamphlet by Mervyn Bright printed in 1971.  This new work is liberally illustrated (many in color), and includes instructions for making seven different patterns.