Crest Button

Definition and Overview

Crest means an emblem in English, and a crest button is a button decorated with a crest-like relief or emblem. It is a practical item used to fasten garments, and at the same time an accessory that creates a traditional and formal impression.

The focus of the design is the pattern on the surface, and it is not a term that specifies the material or attachment structure. It differs in whether or not it has a design and in how it is expressed from a plain metal button or a cloth button covered with textile.

Materials and Structure

In many cases it is made of metal, and its three-dimensional design is expressed by stamping or casting. There are also resin versions finished to look like metal, and their lightness, thickness, cost, and suitability for washing and dry cleaning vary depending on the material and surface treatment.

The attachment structure is generally a shank button with a looped shank on the back through which thread is passed. It has a shape that does not interrupt the front design and is easy to attach even to thick textile. Depending on the design, however, perforated versions with two or four holes also exist.

• Shank: a structure in which thread is passed through the looped shank on the back and sewn on.
• Perforated version: a structure in which thread is passed through holes on the button surface and sewn on.
• Thread shank: a sewing method that creates a thread stem between the button and the textile to provide thickness and ease.

How Sizes Are Expressed

The size of a button is shown by its diameter in mm, and may also be expressed in lignes. Since lignes are a traditional unit used for buttons, orders and specifications should confirm either the mm notation, the ligne notation, or both.

Even with the same nominal size, the appearance and thickness change depending on the raised edge and central relief. When the size differs between the front opening and the cuffs, the buttonhole length, shank height, and textile thickness should also be designed accordingly.

Main Applications and Selection

It is used for the front opening and cuffs of blazers, tailored jackets, uniforms, and coats. Because the metallic sheen and crest design provide an accent, it is easier to make the button stand out when paired with plain or subtly woven textile.

When selecting one, check not only the design and color, but also the button weight, the shape of the back side, the inner diameter of the shank, and the thickness of the textile to be used. When attaching a heavy button to thin material, consider methods such as using a supporting button to distribute the load on the sewn area.

How to Attach and Handling Precautions

For shank versions, thread is passed through the shank and sewn on, and thread shanking is done if necessary. If the height of the thread shank is insufficient, the front edge may be pulled in on thick material; if it is too long, the button will become unstable. Confirm the fit with the buttonhole before deciding mass production conditions.

Resistance to washing and dry cleaning varies depending on the material, surface treatments such as plating, and whether or not there is an adhesive part. Check the care label and the handling conditions for the accessory, and avoid strong impact, friction, and direct contact with an iron. Be aware that discoloration, plating wear, and cracking of resin parts may occur.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are crest buttons and metal buttons the same?

No, they are not the same. Metal button is a term that mainly refers to the material being metal. Crest button is a term that refers to a crest-like design, and although many are made of metal, there are also resin versions. Therefore, some buttons fall into both categories.

Can crest buttons be washed at home?

This cannot be judged uniformly. Depending on the type of metal, surface treatment, and how the decoration is fixed, the risks of discoloration, scratches, or peeling during washing differ. Check not only the product care label but also the handling conditions of the button to be used, and perform testing if necessary.

What should you be careful about when attaching a shank crest button?

Adjust the length of the thread shank to match the thickness of the textile so that the button does not dig into the textile or sit too far away. If the button is heavy, choose sewing thread appropriately, and there is also a method of attaching a supporting button on the back side to distribute the load on the textile.