Buttons have been made from almost every known material and by every manufacturing technique. Their study provides insight into fashion trends, the clothing industry and social history in general. This book introduces the wonderful array of these treasures from the past, to show the variety of materials and the intricate design and workmanship incorporated in making the humble button. Military and civilian uniform buttons are not included. About the author Alan and Gillian Meredith have been button collectors for over thirty years, undertaking much original research and writing articles for leading antiques magazines, as well as appearing on television and radio. They owned and ran the first and only button museum in Great Britain, creating a focus for those interested in the history, design and manufacture of buttons, as well as introducing a fascinating subject to the general public.