Combination Button

Definition and Overview

A combination button is a general term for buttons made by combining multiple materials and different colors or finishes, such as resin and metal, or a shell-like surface material and a resin base. “Combi” means combination and does not refer to a specific material.

There are many different constructions, such as those that switch colors between the center and outer edge, and those that attach a decorative part to a base. Because they can add an accent while blending in with the garment fabric, their appearance as an accessory affects the design.

Materials and Construction

The materials combined may include resin such as polyester resin, metal, shell, and wood-grain materials. However, the name combination button alone does not indicate the actual material, bonding method, or heat resistance, so specifications must be checked for each product number.

Thread-through constructions include hole styles such as two-hole and four-hole buttons, and shank styles in which thread is passed around a shank on the back. Hole styles incorporate the holes on the surface into the design, while shank styles make it easier to give height between the button and the textile.

• Hole style: sew on with thread through two holes, four holes, etc.
• Shank style: attach by passing thread through the shank on the back.
• Laminated or inset style: a construction that combines a decorative part made of a different material with a base.

How Sizes Are Expressed

Button size is shown by the outer diameter in mm, or sometimes in lignes. Lignes are a customary unit used for buttons, and 1 ligne is approx. 2.54 mm. In planning documents and purchase orders, it is easier to confirm if the size is listed in both lignes and mm.

For combination buttons, in addition to the maximum outer diameter, the shank height, thickness, and protrusion of the decorative part also affect whether the button can pass through the buttonhole. Especially with raised designs, it is important not to judge suitability by the outer diameter alone.

Main Applications and Selection

They are used as accents on openings and cuffs for jackets, coats, cardigans, dresses, blouses, and more. Choose them by matching the fabric and other accessories to create a classic impression, a metallic impression, or a color-blocked impression.

For thick outerwear fabrics, confirm a method of attachment that can withstand thickness and weight, as well as a shape that can pass through the buttonhole. For thin fabrics, check at the prototyping stage whether a heavy button causes fabric sagging or whether the shank makes contact in a noticeable way.

• Match the color tone and finish of the outer fabric, lining, and zipper.
• Consider the buttonhole length with the maximum thickness and raised part of the button in mind.
• For cuff buttons, consider the size and quantity balance relative to the front body.

Attaching and Handling Precautions

Hole styles are sewn directly to the textile with thread, while shank styles may use a thread wrapping method to create a slight gap under the button. Thread wrapping is the thread shank that absorbs fabric thickness and makes the button easier to fasten and unfasten.

Products made by combining different materials may vary in resistance to washing, dry cleaning, and ironing depending on the constituent materials. Direct contact with a hot iron, strong impact during washing, or the effects of solvents and chemicals may cause discoloration, dulling, scratches, or breakage at the joints.

Before mass production, perform sewing tests using the actual fabric, interfacing, and sewing thread to confirm buttonhole passability, sewing strength, and appearance after washing or cleaning. If metal is included, also watch for discoloration due to moisture and color transfer to other materials.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a combination button and a metal button?

A metal button refers mainly to a button made of metal. A combination button, on the other hand, is a name for a construction that combines different materials, colors, and designs. Therefore, one made by combining metal and resin can also be called a combination button with metallic elements.

Can combination buttons be machine washed at home?

Whether they can be washed depends on the combined materials, surface finish, and joining method. Do not judge by the name combination button alone; check the individual handling conditions. For washing machines, using a laundry net to reduce contact with other garments is common.

How are combination button buttonhole dimensions determined?

Consider not only the outer diameter, but also whether the thickest part and the shape of the decorative section can pass through. Because the stretch of the material and the thickness of the buttonhole stitching also affect the result, make a prototype with the actual fabric and confirm ease of fastening and unfastening, as well as that it will not come undone unintentionally.