Novelty Sewing Buttons for Crafting

Decorative Buttons for Quilting, Sewing, and Crafts

A small button can make a memorable detail: the center of a flower, an accent on a stitched motif, or a colorful addition to a handmade pincushion. Decorative buttons add dimension to appliqué, wall hangings, pillows, and other sewing projects. Choose a subtle color to blend with your fabric or a contrasting button to highlight a special feature.

Button Assortments, Jars, and Project Packs

Assorted button packs and jars give you a variety of pieces to mix and match across your projects. Coordinated project packs serve a different purpose: they are selected for a particular design. When shopping for a named button pack, check that it matches the exact pattern and project version you are making. A quilt, wall hanging, and individual block from the same series may require different packs.

Explore options from Buttons Galore & More, Lori Holt, and other button designers represented in our selection. Refer to each product description for button sizes, quantities, colors, and attachment details.

Seasonal and Holiday Button Embellishments

Celebrate the season with buttons that complement your handmade décor. Christmas and winter designs suit festive wall hangings and ornaments, while Halloween, autumn, Valentine’s Day, and patriotic assortments offer playful details for other occasions. Match your button choices to the motifs and colors in your fabric rather than relying on the holiday name alone.

Find your next project among our Christmas patterns and books, Halloween patterns and books, or patriotic patterns and books. Add button embellishments where the design and intended use allow.

Choose Buttons to Suit Your Project

Consider the button’s size, thickness, color, and attachment style before sewing it in place. Small buttons can complement delicate appliqué and miniature motifs, while larger novelty shapes create a more noticeable accent. Check whether the button has sewing holes or a shank on the back, and follow your pattern’s placement instructions.

For quilts and other projects that will be machine quilted, plan the embellishment sequence in advance. Raised buttons are generally easier to add after quilting so they stay clear of the quilting needle. For items that will be washed, check the button manufacturer’s care guidance as well as the fabric’s care requirements.

Find a Pattern for Your Favorite Buttons

Browse wall hanging patterns and our broader selection of patterns and books for projects to personalize. Our free downloads and video tutorials offer additional ideas and sewing instruction. Start with a design you love, then choose a few well-placed buttons to complete the look.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are novelty buttons?

Novelty buttons feature decorative shapes or themed designs. They are often used as embellishments on sewing and craft projects rather than as working closures.

What is the difference between an assorted button pack and a project button pack?

An assorted pack provides a selection of buttons for general use. A project button pack is coordinated for a specific design. Check the product description to confirm which pattern or project it accompanies.

Can I use buttons on quilts and appliqué projects?

Yes. Buttons can add decorative details to quilts and appliqué. Consider how the finished project will be used, and follow the pattern’s instructions for placement and attachment.

Should I attach buttons before or after quilting?

Raised button embellishments are generally best attached after machine quilting. This keeps them out of the quilting needle’s path. Follow your pattern if it specifies a particular sequence.

How do I choose the right button size?

Compare the button’s dimensions with the motif or area you want to embellish. Check your pattern for a recommended size, and consider the thickness and attachment style as well as the diameter.

Do button packs include a sewing pattern?

Do not assume a pattern is included. Many button packs contain only the embellishments. Check the product description for the exact contents and any pattern you need to purchase separately.

Can decorative buttons be washed?

Care requirements vary by material and finish. Check the manufacturer’s instructions before using decorative buttons on an item that will be washed frequently.

Are decorative buttons suitable for baby projects?

Avoid adding small, detachable button embellishments to items intended for babies or young children. Choose stitched or fabric details instead.