7 Best Bone Buttons For Authentic Historical Recreations
Discover the top 7 bone buttons for authentic historical costumes. Learn how material, carving, and finish impact accuracy for your next reenactment project.
Bringing a historical garment to life requires more than just mastering the correct stitch pattern or period-accurate silhouette. The finishing details, particularly the fasteners, act as the final bridge between a modern reproduction and a truly authentic piece. Choosing the right bone buttons ensures your project feels as substantial and storied as the textiles themselves. Here is how to navigate the world of natural bone fastenings to elevate your historical sewing and knitting projects.
Raw Polished Bovine Bone: The Best Overall Choice
When you need a button that feels substantial in the hand, raw polished bovine bone is the gold standard. These buttons have a satisfying weight that balances well against heavy woolens or dense, hand-spun yarns.
Unlike plastic, these buttons possess a unique, organic depth that catches the light differently with every turn. They are incredibly durable, capable of withstanding the rigors of frequent wear without cracking or losing their luster.
The trade-off is that no two buttons are identical. If you are a perfectionist, the slight variations in color and grain might feel like an inconsistency, but for an authentic historical look, these subtle differences are exactly what you want.
Hand-Carved Deer Antler: Best for Rustic Projects
Antler buttons bring a rugged, earthy aesthetic that pairs perfectly with chunky, cabled sweaters or heavy-duty linen coats. Because they are hand-carved, they often feature unique ridges and textures that machine-made options simply cannot replicate.
The density of antler makes it one of the strongest materials available for buttons. If you are working on a piece that will see hard outdoor use, this is the material that won’t let you down.
Be mindful that these are often thicker than standard buttons. You may need to adjust your buttonhole sizing or use a slightly larger needle when knitting your button bands to ensure the button passes through comfortably.
Vintage Style Turned Bone: Best for Regency Looks
If you are recreating an elegant Regency-era gown or a delicate waistcoat, look for turned bone buttons. These are shaped on a lathe, resulting in precise, symmetrical edges that look refined and intentional.
They often feature subtle decorative rings or indentations that mimic the mass-produced buttons of the 19th century. They provide a polished finish that doesn’t scream "handmade" in a way that distracts from your needlework.
These buttons are usually thinner and lighter, making them ideal for delicate wools or fine silk blends. They won’t pull or distort your fabric, which is a common frustration when using heavy buttons on light-gauge knitting.
Dyed Antique Finish Bone: Best for Period Accuracy
Natural bone can sometimes look too bright or "new" against a garment that you’ve spent hours tea-dyeing or distressing. Dyed antique finish buttons bridge this gap by providing a mellow, aged patina right out of the package.
They are treated to look like they have survived a century in a sewing box. This saves you the trouble of trying to artificially age your hardware, which can sometimes lead to uneven results or staining on your finished garment.
Always test these buttons against a swatch of your fabric before sewing them on permanently. Some dyed finishes can transfer color if they get wet, so ensure the dye is set before committing to a light-colored project.
Flat Disc Cattle Bone: Best for Undergarments
For shifts, chemises, or hidden plackets, you want a button that stays out of the way. Flat, thin disc buttons made of cattle bone are the perfect functional choice for these internal applications.
They are designed to lie completely flush against the fabric, preventing the "bumpy" look that rounded buttons create under layers. They are the unsung heroes of historical layering, providing security without adding unnecessary bulk.
Because they are flat, they are also less likely to catch on your outer layers. If you are layering a hand-knit cardigan over a period-accurate shirt, these buttons ensure a smooth, professional silhouette.
Intricate Laser-Etched Bone: Best for Outerwear
If you want to add a touch of period-inspired ornamentation, laser-etched bone buttons are a fantastic choice. They can feature delicate floral motifs or geometric patterns that were popular in various historical periods.
These are best reserved for the focal points of a garment, such as the front closure of a cloak or the cuffs of a coat. They serve as a decorative element that elevates the entire aesthetic of your piece.
Keep in mind that the etched lines can accumulate lint or yarn fibers over time. A quick brush with a soft toothbrush during your seasonal garment maintenance will keep the details crisp and clear.
Natural Unfinished Bone: Best for Custom Dyeing
For the maker who wants total control, natural unfinished bone is a blank canvas. These buttons are porous and will readily take fabric dyes, allowing you to match your buttons perfectly to your yarn color.
Experimenting with natural dyes like onion skins or walnut hulls can yield stunning, custom results that perfectly coordinate with your project. It is a rewarding process that adds another layer of craftsmanship to your work.
Remember that bone is an organic material, so it will react differently to dyes than protein fibers like wool. Always perform a test run on a spare button before dipping your entire set into the dye pot.
How to Select Bone Buttons for Historical Garments
- Weight: Match the weight of the button to the weight of your yarn; heavy buttons on light yarn will cause sagging.
- Size: Measure your buttonhole gauge carefully; remember that a button needs to be slightly smaller than the hole to prevent stretching.
- Finish: Consider the context of the garment—is it a workaday piece or a formal gown? Choose the finish accordingly.
- Quantity: Always buy 20% more buttons than you need to account for potential breakage or future repairs.
Essential Tips for Sewing Bone Buttons Securely
When sewing on bone buttons, avoid using standard sewing thread, which may snap under the weight of the bone. Use a strong, waxed linen or a heavy-duty cotton thread that matches your project’s fiber content.
Always create a thread shank by wrapping your thread around the base of the button several times before knotting off. This provides the necessary space for the fabric to sit under the button without puckering.
If you are attaching buttons to a stretchy knit, sew a small square of reinforcement fabric or a tiny button on the inside of the garment. This prevents the bone button from pulling through the knitted stitches over time.
Caring for Natural Bone Buttons Over the Decades
Bone is a natural material that can become brittle if it dries out completely. Occasionally rubbing your buttons with a tiny drop of mineral oil or beeswax will help maintain their luster and prevent cracking.
Avoid washing your historical garments in harsh detergents or high-heat cycles. Natural bone can warp or discolor when subjected to extreme temperature changes or aggressive chemicals.
If your buttons do become dull, a very light buffing with a soft, dry cloth is usually all they need. Treat them with the same care you would give your finest hand-knits, and they will easily last for generations.
Selecting the right bone buttons is a final act of devotion to your historical recreation project. By understanding the properties of the material and how it interacts with your knitting, you ensure that your work is as durable as it is beautiful. Take your time with these final details, as they are the quiet markers of a true artisan. May your stitches be even and your buttons hold fast for years to come.
