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Hello! I'm Kimura from the ApparelX Sustainability Team.
Do you know the word "casein"?
Casein buttons, made from a protein derived from milk, have been attracting renewed attention in recent years.
As the demand for environmentally friendly materials grows, this material can help create a brand story and differentiate it.
This time we will introduce you to "Casein Buttons" !
Casein is one of the major proteins found in milk, accounting for about 80% of the solid components of milk. It is obtained as a by-product separated during the cheese and yogurt production process.
It has long been used in the food industry as well as industrial applications, and is highly regarded from a sustainable perspective because by-products can be used as resources rather than discarded.
Casein resin was developed in the early 20th century, when a resin called "Galalith" was created in Germany and began to be used in buttons, ornaments, fountain pens, and other items.
At the time, it was highly valued as a "natural material made artificially," and was a standard material for high-quality buttons in pre-war Europe.
Casein buttons are made through the following process:
1️⃣Casein protein extracted from milk
2️⃣React with a hardener and roll to form a resin
3️⃣After forming into rod or plate material, it is cut into a button shape
4️⃣Dyeing and polishing create a unique luster and color
Although it is naturally derived, it can produce a glossy luster and a wide range of colors.
merit
Sustainability: Utilizing milk by-products to help reduce waste
Luxurious luster: A deep, natural luster
Versatile expression: Excellent dyeability and a wide range of colors
Practicality: Sufficient hardness for everyday use
Disadvantages
Poor water resistance: Care must be taken when exposed to water or humidity for extended periods of time.
Heat sensitive: May deform in high temperature environments
Not suitable for mass production: inferior to plastic in terms of cost and efficiency
Be careful with children's clothing: When hiring, check compliance with formaldehyde regulations
*In Japan, strict standards are set for children's clothing under the Household Products Control Act (formaldehyde regulations). All accessories must pass formaldehyde testing (JIS L1041, etc.).
Choosing casein buttons is not just about being environmentally conscious, but also about telling your brand story. "Circularity" by turning milk by-products into a resource "Tradition" with a long history "Luxury" that comes from natural materials These factors represent "sustainable values that consumers can relate to" and help differentiate your brand.
This is a popular item from the manufacturer. Its soft texture makes it a perfect match for Ladies's knitwear.
The sizes range from 8mm to 40mm, so you can also use them for inner buttons on outerwear.
These are rounded semicircular buttons with a unique texture.
This is the only material that takes advantage of the properties of casein to produce a glossy finish under the thin rings, on the edges, and inside the buttonholes.
*Only three 20mm buttons can be harvested from one liter of milk, making them extremely valuable.
S-21 Casein Resin Tunnel-Leg Buttons with Glossy Motifs
tunnel shank button feature a flower motif and are made using casein resin.
raised motif buttons made from sustainable materials are rare.
LH1179 Casein Resin tunnel shank button
tunnel shank button are made of casein resin. They are pre-colored so you can use them as they are.
Available in sizes up to 35mm, it is also recommended as a replacement for outerwear nut buttons.
Lastly 🖊️
What did you think? Casein buttons have a history of over 100 years, but are now being rediscovered as a sustainable material. It's these small pieces of hardware that truly reflect a brand's attitude. We hope you'll consider using casein buttons, which combine environmental friendliness with beauty, in your next collection.
Please see the ApparelX casein button product page here .
