Button raw material - the four elements of the button

May 15 2023 , 2 min reading time

In general, a button consists of four different parts: the transparent film, the upper part, the lower part and a pin. This is explained in detail here!

What are buttons made of?

In general, a button consists of four different parts: the transparent film, the upper part, the lower part and a pin. These parts are also referred to as button raw material and form the basis for all buttons. They only vary in shape, size or material. The selected motifs, which were adapted to the paper circles in the previous step, are then used in the assembled button blanks.

Metal or plastic button raw material

The button raw material can be either metal or plastic. In contrast to metal buttons, plastic buttons can be used several times. All you have to do is open the upper and lower part with your hands and a new motif can be inserted. Above all, the button blanks made of plastic do not require an expensive button machine for production - this saves considerable costs that would otherwise be incurred when purchasing a button machine.

Types of button stock

There are basically two different types of button raw material. On the one hand there are the European button blanks (also called EU button blanks or Badgematic button blanks), on the other hand the American button blanks. You have to be very careful about this distinction, since these systems are not interchangeable. When processing with a button press, you have to pay close attention to this distinction, since the press insert must have the same size and shape as the raw button material.

Different shapes and sizes of button blanks

The button raw material is offered in many different sizes and designs. When choosing the button blanks, you have to make sure that they are compatible with the press inserts of the button machine. When selecting the button raw material, it is important to consider how you want to use the finished buttons. For example, the oval button blanks are very well suited for name tags, as they offer more horizontal space for longer names.

Quality of button raw material

As with any other craft, the well-known principle also applies to the production of buttons: Only those who choose good raw material can also demand a good end product. Therefore, it is advisable not to skimp on button raw material, so that you can end up wearing a professional button on your garment.