Assorted vintage enamel buttons are a quick way to add color, texture and a touch of old-world charm to coats, cardigans and craft projects. But with so many shapes, sizes and finishes to choose from, how do you pick the right set? This buying guide explains what these buttons are, what to look for before you buy, and how to use them so every project looks its best.
What Are Vintage Enamel Buttons?
Vintage enamel buttons get their look from a resin base finished with a glossy, hand-painted enamel-look surface. Most are framed with gold-tone edging and accented with sparkling rhinestones or a pearlescent faux-pearl center, giving them a refined, cloisonne-style appearance inspired by traditional enamel work. The finish is decorative rather than real enamel or gemstone, so the buttons stay lightweight and easy to sew. Many designs use a shank (loop) back, which hides the stitching and keeps the front of the button clean.
What’s in an Assorted Set
An assorted set brings together several designs in one pack so you get a variety of shapes and color pairings to mix and match. A typical set includes seven designs in sizes from 16mm to 20mm, with 6 pieces per design. Cool tones such as teal green, jade and ink gray, navy and indigo suit coats and blazers, while warmer pairings like orange, crimson and the gold-and-faux-pearl design add a brighter accent to knits and cardigans. A soft off-white and green design is an easy, versatile choice that pairs with almost anything.
How to Choose the Right Buttons
Size
Match the button to the weight of your garment. Smaller 16-18mm designs work well for blouses, shirts and lightweight cardigans, while 19-20mm designs make a bolder statement on coats, jackets and chunky knits. If you are replacing buttons, measure both your buttonhole and the original button before ordering so the size and shank height suit your fabric.
Shank vs. Sew-Through
Shank-back buttons have a single loop on the back instead of two or four holes. They sit slightly raised, which makes them a good match for thicker fabrics and layered garments, and they keep stitching hidden for a neat finish. Sew-through buttons sit flatter and are better for lightweight fabrics. The assorted vintage enamel buttons in this guide use a shank back.
Color & Finish
Decide whether you want the buttons to blend in or stand out. A single bold button can act as a feature closure, while a row of mixed designs creates a playful, handmade look. Remember that rhinestone and faux-pearl accents are decorative imitations, not real stones, so they are best kept away from harsh chemicals.
Quantity
Check how many pieces come per design and order a spare or two in case you lose one or want to add decorative accents later. A set with 6 pieces per design covers most cardigans and coats with buttons to spare.
Styling Ideas
- Use one statement button as a feature closure on a plain coat or cardigan.
- Scatter several mixed designs down a cardigan for an eclectic, vintage finish.
- Stitch them onto cuffs, pockets, collars, hats and bags as decorative accents.
- Repurpose them for jewelry making, hair accessories and other craft projects.
How to Sew On a Shank Button
- Mark the button position and bring your threaded needle up from the back of the fabric.
- Pass the needle through the shank loop and back down through the fabric.
- Repeat several times until the button feels secure, keeping the stitches in the same spot.
- Finish with a few small stitches on the back and knot the thread.
Care Tips
To keep the finish looking its best, hand wash garments with these buttons or fasten them inside a laundry bag for a gentle machine cycle. Avoid bleach, harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners that can dull the enamel-look surface or loosen the rhinestones, and keep the buttons away from prolonged moisture. Wipe gently with a soft, dry cloth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these real enamel buttons? They have a hand-painted enamel-look finish on a resin base, which gives the vintage cloisonne style without the weight or cost of true enamel.
Are the stones real gemstones or pearls? No. The sparkle comes from rhinestone and faux-pearl accents, which are decorative imitations.
What size should I buy? Choose 16-18mm for blouses and light cardigans, and 19-20mm for coats and heavier knits. Measure your buttonhole if you are replacing existing buttons.
How many buttons come in a set? A typical assorted set includes seven designs with 6 pieces per design.
Where to Buy
Ready to add a touch of vintage color to your next project? Browse our assorted vintage enamel buttons and matching designs in the shop, and pick the colors and sizes that suit your garments.