Though Enamel Buttons Have Been Around for Centuries and Are Favorites of Button collectors, there has not been a book completely dedicated to their study … until now! Karen L. Cohen brings her unique perspective as an enamelist, Studio Button artist, and educator to Enamel Buttons: An Essential Resource for Collectors. Meticulous research combined with her insights about the properties of enamel and the techniques used in creating buttons make this a must-have book for every collector. Hundreds of photos provide examples of the various techniques and button types and are a valuable resource for study. Cohen explains why things look like they do (such as why Motiwala Brothers "Liquid Enamel" buttons look like they flow) while also helping the collector distinguish between closely related techniques (such as Champlevé and Cloisonné or Monochrome and Grisaille). Her extensive research on the evolution of enameling techniques provides the history chapter with fascinating facts intertwined with how they relate to enamel buttons. Cohen has documented many of the makers along with their back marks, making it easier for collectors to identify button finds. The appendices provide related information, including how to identify enamel look-alikes such as CPE (Cold Plastic Enamel) and restoration techniques.

If you already collect enamel buttons, this volume is an essential resource for understanding your collection in greater depth. If you are curious about enamel buttons, this book tells it all: history, material, techniques, embellishments, makers, and more. If you are a collector of other types of enamelwaré or are fascinated with enameling or are someone who resells enamels (such as antique dealers), this book is an excellent resource about the various aspects of enamel in general. Lastly, it's a button book you will enjoy paging through again and again, admiring the hundreds of glorious enamel buttons!.