Polyester Button

Definition and Overview

A polyester button is a resin button made primarily from polyester resin. Through dyeing, compounding, and pattern processing, it can express a wide range of colors, transparency, and marble patterns. Some have appearances that resemble buffalo horn or shell, but the material itself is different from real buffalo horn or shell.

“Resin button” is a broad term for synthetic resin buttons in general, and a polyester button is one type. It differs from urea buttons and ABS resin buttons in terms of raw resin, texture, and processing characteristics, so the material specification should be checked when ordering.

Material and Structure

Common shapes include two-hole and four-hole buttons with threading holes on the front surface, and shank buttons that are attached by looping thread around the shank on the back. Hole buttons are used for shirts and casual clothing, while shank buttons are used for jackets, blouses, and similar items when a more visible front surface is desired.

Hole buttons include cat's-eye buttons with a recessed center, as well as shapes that make it easier to hold the sewing thread. Shank buttons create space between the button and the textile, making them suitable even for thick or bulky textiles, but the attachment method should be considered so that stress does not concentrate on the shank.

• Two-hole / four-hole: a shape sewn on by passing thread through the holes.
• Cat's-eye button: a shape with a groove between the holes that helps the thread sit neatly.
• Shank button: a shape attached by looping thread around the shank on the back.

Size Notation

Button size is shown by diameter in mm, and may also be expressed in lignes (L). Lignes are a traditional unit for buttons, and 1 ligne is approx. 2.54 mm. Standard notation basically indicates the diameter, but for three-dimensional shapes, thickness and shank height also affect usability.

When selecting, check the buttonhole length and width, the placket and textile thickness, and the applications together. Even with the same stated diameter, ease of insertion changes depending on edge roundness and thickness. Before mass production, it is important to perform opening and closing tests with the actual buttonhole.

Main Applications and Selection

Polyester buttons are used for shirts, blouses, cardigans, jackets, coats, pants, skirts, dresses, and more. They offer many design options from No pattern to pattern, and are also chosen when a natural-material look is desired while managing color and lot consistency.

Depending on the item, decide the button diameter, thickness, number of holes or shank shape, color, and gloss. For thin fabrics, consider a light, flat shape; for thick fabrics and outerwear, consider a diameter and thickness that are easy to handle. Buttonhole specifications, textile stretch, and washing method are also part of the selection criteria.

Attachment and Handling Notes

For hole buttons, passing the sewing thread with moderate slack and forming a thread shank creates some room between the button and the textile, making it easier to insert and remove from the buttonhole. For shank buttons, do not tighten the thread too much so as not to damage the base of the shank, and finish so that the button does not rotate too much. If necessary, attach a backing button on the reverse side to distribute the load.

Resistance to washing and dry cleaning varies depending on the button formulation, surface finish, dyes/pigments, and sewing thread. Direct exposure to a high-temperature iron for a long time, strong impact, and excessive tightening can cause deformation, cracking, and damage. Check washing and cleaning tests in advance according to the product conditions.

For light-colored or transparent buttons, and buttons with surface finishes, color tone may change over time or depending on compatibility with chemicals. Evaluate appearance and strength before mass production, including combinations with textile, interlining, adhesive, and detergent.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a polyester button and a urea button?

Both are resin buttons, but the raw resin differs. Polyester buttons are characterized by a wide range of design expression, including color, pattern, and transparency. It can be difficult to distinguish them by appearance alone, so check the specification sheet or material indication.

Can polyester buttons be used for home washing or dry cleaning?

Whether they are suitable depends on the button specifications and the product's washing conditions. Some are used for general washing, but changes may occur depending on the surface finish, color, and compatibility with chemicals. It is important to carry out tests in line with the product conditions before mass production.

Can button lignes be converted to mm?

Yes. Since 1 ligne is approx. 2.54 mm, multiplying the number of lignes by approx. 2.54 gives the approximate diameter in mm. However, in actual selection, not only the diameter but also the thickness and compatibility with the buttonhole should be checked.