Based on the premise that "todays collectibles are tomorrows' antiques", how can we identify valuable buttons of the twentieth century? This book is both a history and pictorial review of clothing buttons left over at the close of an elegant twentieth century store. This glimpse and their historical context should help collectors gain a working outline of what was produced and sold during the 1940 to 1990's in the Southern Texas region of the USA. A bonus is the inclusion of many of the favored recipes from the Tea Room.

This handbook is a pictorial guide to help button collectors identify and categorize black glass buttons according to the National Button Society Classification. A short history of black glass is included to put the centuries between the discovery of glass and the creation of black glass buttons in perspective.

For years, buttons have been more than a device that holds it all together. A popular category of collectible buttons are a staple (40,000 plus auctions) on eBay, and a topic discussed by sewing enthusiasts and crafters around the world. This new book bears all the color and attitudes of a favorite vintage button, with all the historical facts and realized pricing suitable for fans of the one thing that truly makes fashion functional.

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.

A complete one-volume library of information covering all periods, materials, manufacturers, and every other subject of interest to the button collector.