"All buttoned up"

Shown below is just a small part of the extensive and imaginative display put together by Gill and Lucy to set the scene for our April Members' Day:

  

 

  

Gaye got the day off to a good start by giving us an overview of the history of Dorset buttons, which in the 19th century were a real cottage industry.  They were then usually made using rings cut from sheep horn, covered with linen cloth and thread, and there were many variations in the patterns created.  After Gaye's very clear demonstration we had a go at making our own: 

  

The interesting thing to realise is that Dorset buttons don't have to be made in small sizes suitable for clothing - in fact, there is no limit to size at all.  We tried using curtain pole rings and bangles, but you can use a ring of any size, as can be seen in the 'spider's web' example in the display below:

After lunch we diversified into making covered buttons, including printing up some fabric using buttons stuck onto corks to make stamps:

Thanks to the creativity of our two programme secretaries, we had a thoroughly enjoyable and useful day.  Our thanks also to Gaye for sharing her knowledge and expertise.