Page 53 - October1997

0ctober 1997 NATIONAL BUTTON BULLETIN 235

XI. Usage
A. Children's clothing
B. Adult's clothins

There has been some question about whether the non-shank involved and the
non-separable buttons should be considered as "real" snap-togethers. My
thinking, as reflected by this classification, is that they should be, as that is
their original method of construction: two or more separately-made pieces
assembled at the factory by snapping them together.
Just because the top piece doesn't snap through a hole in the body to
form the shank doesn't mean it's not a snap-together. Just because the pieces
may have been given a little "reinforcement" to keep them together doesn't
mean they aren't snap-togethers.
This is a family of buttons sharing the same construction concept, and
while the pieces are not all snapped together in exactly the same fashion, all
methods belong to the same family.
Perhaps some of the confusion stems from terminology, as some
collectors have referred to these as "snap-aparts."
Isn't it more fun to see how many ways we can use our buttons not how
few? And, remember, your awards may be written to specialize any way you
want, including the methods ofjoining parts. With this classification, we all
have an even playing field and can write our awards to cover any aspect of
snap-togethers we choose. Wouldn't it be fun to do "Plastic Snap-Togethers
which Imitate other Materials"?
There are new snap-together creations coming on the market all the time.
Every visit to the fabric stores and modern button dealers reveals exciting
new examples. I believe we are just at the beginning of a new category that
will charm, fascinate and amuse collectors for years to come. I encourage you
to get in while the getting's good-don't let this chance pass you by to be on
the ground floor ofa new button collectible.
If there are questions about what is meant by any of the items or terms 1n
the classification, the following illustrated project cards and notes should
answer them. If not. feel free to contact the writer.