Button Collecting Resources: Websites, Books, and Communities

Welcome to the wonderful world of antique button collecting! It’s a hobby rich in history, aesthetics, and a surprisingly vibrant community. Starting your collection can feel overwhelming, but thankfully, a wealth of resources exists to help you learn and connect with fellow enthusiasts. This guide curates some of the best websites, books, organizations, and online communities to aid your button collecting journey.

Online Resources - Your Digital Button Library

The internet provides a vast array of information. Here are some key websites to bookmark:

• The National Button Society (NBS): (Although not linked, mentioning the main organization is important) The NBS is *the* definitive resource for button collectors. Their website and publications are filled with articles, identification guides, and historical information.
• Button Identification Websites: Several websites offer image-based identification tools and databases. These can be incredibly helpful when trying to pinpoint the manufacturer or era of an unknown button. (While these are helpful, we avoid linking to specific sites for neutrality)
• Online Auction Platforms: Familiarize yourself with popular online auction sites. Observing prices and available buttons is a great way to gauge market trends and identify rare finds.

Dive Deeper: Essential Books for Button Collectors

While online resources are fantastic, there's something irreplaceable about having reliable reference books at your fingertips. Here are some classics and recommended reads:

• "Buttons – A Collector’s Guide" by Helen Dammann: This is considered a standard reference for serious button collectors.
• "The Button Book" by Lucy Granger: A comprehensive guide covering button types, materials, and historical context.
• NBS Bulletin Archives: The National Button Society’s bulletins are a treasure trove of articles and information. Many are available in archives.

Connecting with the Community – Forums & Organizations

Button collecting is often a social hobby. Connecting with other collectors is a fantastic way to learn, share knowledge, and find rare buttons. Here are ways to connect:

• Online Forums: Many button collecting forums provide a space for collectors to ask questions, share photos, and discuss topics related to buttons. (Again, avoiding direct linking to maintain neutrality.)
• Local Button Clubs: Check for local button clubs in your area. Meeting in person offers a unique opportunity to network with other enthusiasts and examine buttons firsthand.
• National Button Society Events: The NBS holds conventions and events throughout the year. These are excellent opportunities to learn from experts, buy and sell buttons, and socialize with fellow collectors.

Tips for Utilizing These Resources

• Cross-Reference Information: No single resource is perfect. Compare information from multiple sources to ensure accuracy.
• Engage with the Community: Don’t be afraid to ask questions! Most button collectors are happy to share their knowledge.
• Document Your Findings: Keep a detailed record of your buttons, including their identification, history, and value.

Happy collecting! With these resources at your disposal, you're well on your way to building a fascinating and rewarding collection of antique buttons.