Garment shank button

Types of garment shank buttons

Garment shank buttons are essential components in clothing design, serving both functional and aesthetic purposes. Here's a brief description of their types:

• Plastic Shank Buttons

  Plastic shank buttons are made from durable plastic materials. They are lightweight and versatile. These buttons are suitable for various garments, including shirts, blouses, and coats. They feature a raised dome with a shank or stem at the back for attachment. This design allows for easy fastening through the fabric. The buttons come in different sizes, shapes, and colors to enhance the garment's style. They provide a practical and cost-effective solution for clothing closure.

• Metal Shank Buttons

  Metal shank buttons are robust and stylish. They are made from materials such as brass, stainless steel, or aluminum. These buttons are commonly used in denim garments. For instance, jeans and jackets, as well as outerwear like coats and suits. They have a distinct raised dome shape with a shank for attaching to the fabric. The metallic finish can be polished, matte, or coated in various colors. This adds a touch of elegance and durability. They can withstand wear and tear over time. Shank buttons are typically sewn onto the garment with the shank facing outward. This creates a loop for the button to fit into.

• Fabric Shank Buttons

  Fabric shank buttons are made from textiles like cotton, silk, or wool. They offer a soft and cohesive appearance. These buttons are commonly used in tailored garments such as suits, blazers, and dresses. Their design incorporates a shank that elevates the button above the fabric. This allows for easier manipulation and reduces stress on the stitches. The fabric covering can be patterned or dyed in various hues. This provides versatility in matching different styles and colors of clothing. They are an ideal choice for a subtle and seamless fastening system that complements the overall design of the garment.

• Wooden Shank Buttons

  Wooden shank buttons are crafted from natural wood. They bring a rustic and organic look to garments. These buttons are often used in casual wear like shirts, sweaters, and coats. They have a shank that allows for easy attachment and prevents the button from pulling through the fabric. The wood can be polished or left with a natural finish. This showcases its grain and texture. They are lightweight and durable. This makes them suitable for both aesthetic and practical purposes in clothing. Shank buttons are usually attached with thread. This creates a secure loop for fastening.

Design of garment shank buttons

Shank buttons for garments are available in different styles. Each style reflects the button's functional and aesthetic requirements.

• Style

  Button shank styles vary based on their application and aesthetic needs. The shank is the part that raises the button above the fabric. It allows for easy handling by the fingers. It also prevents the button from pulling through the fabric layers. This can lead to damage. The shank can be either a separate piece or an integral part of the button. It is made by stamping, molding, or attaching it as a separate part. Styles include flat, dome, and square with varying heights and shapes. Some have decorative shanks with patterns or gems.

• Material

  Shank buttons are made from metals, plastics, and natural materials. Metal buttons can be zinc alloy, copper, or stainless steel. They are durable and have a shiny surface. Plastic buttons are light, cheap, and can be made in many colors. Buttons made from natural materials like wood or shell have unique patterns and textures. They are light and can be treated to resist moisture. Each type has its own benefits and is chosen based on cost, look, and how long it will last.

• Size and shape

  Shank buttons come in various sizes. The small ones are about 1 centimeter in diameter. The larger ones can be up to 5 centimeters. Most of them are round, but some are square or rectangular. Their height is usually between 0.5 and 2 centimeters. This gives a distinct raise above the fabric. The button's diameter varies from 1 to 5 centimeters. The height ranges from 0.5 to 2 centimeters. This size ensures easy handling and a firm grip. Round buttons are the most common. However, some buttons are square, rectangular, or oval. Their shape adds to the garment's design. The size and form are chosen based on the garment's style and the fabric's weight.

• Functional features

  Garment shank buttons have various functional features. These make them suitable for different fabrics and clothing types. They usually have a raised shank that separates the button from the cloth. This permits easy handling and prevents the button from getting caught in the fabric. Some buttons have shanks that attach with a loop or a fixed post. The loop type allows for more fabric movement. This is ideal for stretchy or thick materials. Buttons with fixed posts give a tighter attachment. They are more appropriate for sturdy fabrics. The shank design also aids in evenly distributing stress. Thus, it prevents the button from pulling out or tearing the garment.

• Aesthetic features

  Aesthetic features are vital for shank buttons. They enhance the look of garments. The buttons come in various shapes. These include round, square, and rectangular designs. Some are flat while others are dome-shaped. Their size ranges from small to large. Their diameter ranges from 1 to 5 centimeters. The buttons are made from different materials. The common ones are metal, plastic, and wood. Metal buttons are usually made from zinc alloy and copper. They are durable and have a shiny surface. Plastic buttons are light and can be made in many colors. Wooden buttons have a natural look that is unique. Shank buttons have a raised center that is distinct. This makes it easy to sew and grip. The center can have designs like patterns, logos, or gems. These designs are made using stamping, molding, or inlay methods. The patterns may be geometric, floral, or abstract.

Wearing/Matching suggestions of garment shank buttons

Shank buttons are commonly found on tops that are stretchy or hard to get into, dresses, and coats. They can be used for closure or decoration, and they are easy to work with because the button is above the fabric.

• Matching

  Shank buttons are available in various sizes, so it is important to match the size of the button to the size of the buttonhole. The buttonhole should be slightly larger than the button to allow for easy buttoning and unbuttoning. When matching shank buttons to fabric, consider the weight and type of fabric. For heavy fabrics like denim or canvas, choose buttons with a larger diameter and a sturdy shank. For lightweight fabrics like silk or chiffon, opt for smaller buttons that won't weigh down the fabric.

• Wearing

  Garment shank buttons can be used as closures on the plackets of shirts and blouses. To use shank buttons for this purpose, sew the button onto the placket with the shank facing the inside of the garment. Create a buttonhole in the opposite side of the placket to accommodate the button. For coats and jackets, shank buttons can also be used as decorative accents. Sew the buttons onto the garment at regular intervals along the front opening, even if there is no corresponding buttonhole. These buttons can also be sewn onto the cuffs of sleeves for an added touch of style.

Q&A

Q1: What are the buttons with shanks called?

A1: Shank buttons are button types that have a raised central part or shank, which is the attachment point of the button. Unlike flat buttons, they have a structure that stands out from the fabric, making them ideal for thicker materials or textured fabrics.

Q2: How does one attach a shank button to fabric?

A2: To attach a shank button, one must first position the button on the fabric where it will be sewn. Then, the needle is passed through the fabric and the hole in the button's shank. This is repeated several times to secure the button, then the thread is tied off on the fabric's reverse side.

Q3: How does one attach a button to a garment?

A3: Attaching a button to a garment involves threading a needle and passing it through the button's shank to the fabric below. This is done repeatedly to create a secure attachment, after which the thread is secured with a knot.

Q4: How do shank buttons compare to flat buttons?

A4: Unlike flat buttons, shank buttons have a raised structure that allows them to be sewn onto thicker fabrics without becoming buried within them. This makes them particularly suitable for textured or heavy materials.

Q5: What are the advantages of using shank buttons on clothing?

A5: Shank buttons are advantageous because they provide a three-dimensional structure that is easy to grasp and fasten. They are less likely to pull through the fabric and are ideal for use with thicker or bulkier fabrics.