Dorset Buttons.
Dear Keith
It’s very difficult to date a Dorset Button exactly. All I can say is
that there are four different types of Dorset Buttons with many variations
within each type.
1. The first buttons were made with sheep’s horn, fabric and thread
(High Tops and Dorset Knobs)
2. Some used just fabric and thread (Birdseyes and Mites)
Wire rings were introduced in the 1730s and two further types of
buttons were added to the range:
3. Those were made with wire, fabric and thread (Singletons)
4. The Dorset thread button used wire and thread (Dorset Cartwheel
and Blandford Crosswheel)
The earliest example of buttons worked on a wire rings that I have
seen on an item of clothing is in the collection at the Fashion Museum, Bath. A
women’s gown dated 1730-39 which has Dorset Cartwheel buttons worked on wire
rings on each sleeve. I have also seen Dorset Knob buttons used as decoration
on a child’s dress dated 1861-70 in the collection held at the Museum of
London. Dorset Singleton Buttons, also worked on a wire ring, were also used on
many items of clothing.
I hope this helps
Best wishes
Anna
01747 829010
Visit the Cygnet Gallery, Shaftesbury, for a selection of gifts and
kits featuring Dorset Buttons.
http://henrysbuttons.co.uk/worksheets-and-tutorials.html
http://henrysbuttons.co.uk/worksheets-and-tutorials.html
