This is the best introductory guide to the world of buttons available. Clothing buttons of the 1930s, 40s, 50s have become very important to today''s collectors and this book makes identifying them possible.'

Provides detailed information on the manufacture, design, and prices of collectible costume buttons of all periods and guides the collector in choosing and caring for interesting specimens.

Charts the button's evolution through paintings, sculptures, carvings & collages.

Buttons have been made from almost every known material. Their study provides insight into fashion trends, the clothing industry and social history in general. This book introduces an array of these treasures from the past, to show the variety of materials and the intricate design and workmanship incorporated in the making of the button.

The historical importance, makers, materials, and rarity of Christmas trees, decorations, and ornaments of all kinds are discussed in detail, including glass ornaments, all types of lighting from candles to electricity, cotton and paper ornaments, and Dresdens. All the major manufacturers are identified and much personal information is given about the families that developed the Christmas ornament industry into big business internationally. Christmas Past includes beautiful colour pictures of extremely rare, exquisite glass balls and figurals and early electric lamps.

A practical and creative guide to fashion explains how to use buttons for dramatic impact on all types of clothing and provides a catalog of different types of buttons, including antique, designer, jeweled, novelty, and handmade.