Matte Finish
Matte finish is the term for a processing and finishing method that reduces gloss on the button surface, creating a matte appearance with subdued reflection.
Contents6 sections
Definition and Overview
Matte finish is a finishing method that gives the button surface a low-gloss appearance. Because it does not reflect light strongly, it creates a calm impression and a look that makes use of the material texture. In catalogs, it may be described as matte, dull finish, de-glossed, or matte.
Matte finish is not the name of a button material or shape. Even for buttons made of the same resin, shell, or metal, a glossy finish or matte finish may be specified as the surface finish. When placing an order, confirm not only the color but also the level of gloss as part of the specifications.
Relationship to Material and Structure
Matte finish is a surface finish and can be applied to any type of button, including two-hole, four-hole, and cat's-eye buttons, as well as shank buttons with ring shanks or tunnel shanks. The number of holes and the shape of the shank are separate specifications that affect how the button is attached, its thickness, and how it fits with the garment.
The appearance and scratch resistance of a matte finish vary depending on the material. On resin, the surface condition during molding or post-processing may be used to reduce gloss; on metal, it may be expressed through plating or paint finishing. It is important to check actual samples by combining the material, color, and processing method.
- For hole buttons, sewing thread is visible on the surface, so also check how it looks with the thread color.
- Shank buttons make it less likely for sewing thread to show on the surface, helping preserve the impression of the matte face.
- The presence or absence of an edge, thickness, and back shape are specified separately from the matte finish.
Sizes and Main Applications
Button size is generally indicated by diameter in mm, and may also be expressed in lignes. Matte finish itself does not have a specific size; size is selected according to the attachment location, such as front opening, cuffs, or pockets, as well as buttonhole length and fabric thickness.
It is used for shirts, blouses, jackets, coats, uniforms, workwear, and other items where a subdued sheen is desired. When the garment fabric and other components are matte, it is easier to create a sense of unity; conversely, combining it with glossy fabric can create a contrast in surface texture.
Attachment Method and Handling Notes
For hole buttons, select button-attaching thread according to the number of holes and fabric thickness, and make a thread shank if necessary. A thread shank is a method of creating a thread leg between the button and the fabric, making it easier to fasten the button in thick fabrics or at overlapped front plackets. For shank buttons, sew them so that excessive force is not applied to the base of the shank.
Resistance to washing, dry cleaning, and ironing cannot be determined from the matte finish alone. High heat from an iron, strong pressure, or friction against hard objects may cause changes in gloss, scuffing, or damage to the coating. Conduct testing or check actual samples according to the care label and the button's material and finish.
Resin buttons may crack under strong impact or excessive tightening, and metal buttons may discolor due to chemicals or moisture. During sewing, check for cracks, chips, and surface scratches; if the product will be washed, it is reassuring to conduct a washing test in advance.
Differences from Similar Terms
Glossy finish makes use of surface reflection, and its appearance of shine is the opposite of matte finish. However, gloss intensity has levels, and products described as matte are not necessarily completely non-reflective. Do not judge by color swatches alone; compare actual samples under lighting.
Top coating refers to a specification in which color is applied to the button surface, while matte finish mainly refers to the appearance of gloss. Cloisonné and engraving are terms related to decorative expression and design. Since these may be used together with matte finish, describe each process separately in the specification sheet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are matte-finish buttons less likely to show scratches than glossy buttons?
In some cases, fine scuffs may seem less noticeable, but this depends on the material, processing method, and color. Changes such as localized gloss appearing from friction or damage to the coating can also occur. Before mass production, check the appearance after friction and washing using actual samples.
Can a matte-finish button be ironed?
Whether it is acceptable cannot be determined from the name matte finish alone. Depending on the button material, heat may cause deformation, discoloration, or changes in gloss. As a general rule, avoid direct contact with the iron and press around it instead; if necessary, use a pressing cloth and confirm heat-resistance conditions.
Does matte finish indicate the button size or hole shape?
No. Matte finish is a term that indicates a surface finish with reduced gloss. Size is shown in mm or lignes, and structure is shown separately as two-hole, four-hole, shank, and so on. When ordering, specify the finish, size, and hole or shank shape separately.
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