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Embellish It .... With Buttons
Audrey Pirie, Audrey's Button Boutique

 The number and variety of buttons available today is infinite.  No longer just functional closures, interesting buttons can highlight a neckline, pocket or cuff; add drama to a lapel or jazz up a plain fabric.  None of these ideas are new but may inspire you if you want to do something different.

Draw attention to a jewel or V neckline by adding a row of buttons for a �necklace� effect.  Select buttons of similar materials or colour to either match or contrast your fabric.  Attach the buttons about 1� below the neckline.

Add a row or several rows of buttons to highlight the welt or flap of a pocket.  Make sure to consider the total weight your buttons will add to the area, otherwise you may have some unflattering sagging.

Fill a shawl collar on a jacket with buttons.  Mother of pearl and shell buttons were sewn closely together on an ivory silk jacket I saw recently.  The effect was stunning.

Outline an applique or design with contrasting buttons.

Red and navy buttons were selected for the denim vest at left to pick up the colours in the piping and highlight the pin-tucked fabric.  Grouping several buttons together and adding pearl beads created a pin for the collar.  The navy buttons inspired the shape of the flap closure. 

Lightweight synthetic shell buttons add interest to the hot pink vest at right.  Start by chalk marking your design on the fabric, tape the buttons in place and sew on by machine.  The broach on the left side of the vest is simply a large shell button pinned in place.

Want your embellishment to be more subtle?

Instead of marching six or seven buttons down the front of a shirt or jacket, group buttons - two or three close together at each button placement.  Only one buttonhole in the group needs to be functional.

Use the same button in a variety of colours to match those in a print or striped fabric, or use different styles of gold or silver buttons of the same size.

Add drama to a simple black or white top by adding gold, silver or rhinestone buttons.

Embellishing with buttons does not need to be limited to clothing.

Take a tennis shoe from simple to funky by gluing buttons on.

String metal shank buttons onto cording for a neat necklace.

Glue small rhinestone buttons to the edge of the flap on a black velvet evening bag.

View our entire catalogue of interesting buttons online and take advantage of our millennium special:  Free Delivery on all orders (Canada & USA only) of $25 or more until February 29, 2000.

More Information on Audrey's Button Boutique

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