Buttons can turn into some surprisingly cool craft projects. If you’ve got a stash from old shirts or just can’t resist scooping up a handful at the thrift store, you’ll find there’s almost no end to what you can make. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or just dabbling, buttons are pretty much the ultimate upcycling material.
This roundup of button crafts covers everything from home décor to accessories and quirky gifts. There’s something here for beginners and for folks who want to get a little more intricate. Best part? Most of these just need basic supplies you probably already have lying around, so you won’t have to run out for fancy stuff.
From wall art to wearable goodies and holiday decorations, buttons are surprisingly versatile. These projects let you put a personal spin on everyday items, and honestly, it’s kind of satisfying to give new life to those buttons that would otherwise just gather dust.
1) Button art canvas wall decor
Button art on canvas is a fun way to make unique wall decor with things you probably already own. Arrange buttons into shapes (hearts, trees, initials, whatever fits your vibe) on a painted canvas.
Pick your design and paint color, then sort your buttons by size and color. Start with the bigger buttons, then fill in the gaps with smaller ones. Gel craft glue works well to keep everything in place.
It’s a pretty approachable project, and it’s a cool way to add a little personality to any corner of your home.
2) Button moon frame
For a dreamy, celestial vibe, trace a crescent moon onto some cardstock and fill it in with a cluster of white or pearlescent buttons.
Using different sizes gives it a really cool, textured look that pops once you tuck it into a rustic wood frame. It’s a sweet, low-key way to bring a bit of the night sky into your room; simple, but it looks so charming on a gallery wall.
3) DIY button photo frame
Take a basic picture frame and jazz it up by gluing colorful buttons around the edge. You can go for a tidy pattern, a random scatter, or neat rows.
Wooden or cardboard frames both work, and you just need buttons, glue, and the frame itself. Try matching the button colors to your photo or the room for a more pulled-together look.
The finished frame is always a conversation starter and makes a sweet gift, too.
4) Button flower bouquet
Button flower bouquets are a cute, long-lasting alternative to real flowers. Just thread buttons onto pipe cleaners or floral wire to make stems, stacking them for extra dimension.
This one’s super beginner-friendly. The finished bouquet is a thoughtful gift for occasions like Mother’s Day or anniversaries.
Tuck your button flowers into a vase or jar, and you’ve got home décor that never wilts.
5) Button jewelry (necklaces and bracelets)
Buttons are surprisingly perfect for handmade jewelry. String them onto wire, chain, or ribbon for necklaces in all sorts of color combos.
For bracelets, use elastic cord or wire and mix up the button sizes and shapes. Whether you’re into vintage or modern styles, you can make pieces that suit any mood or outfit.
These are quick to put together and make great little gifts.
6) Button winter decorations
A button snowman is a simple, cheery way to add some DIY flair to your winter decor. Grab white buttons in different sizes, glue, and a few other supplies to build your snowman.
Stack the buttons for the body, biggest at the bottom. Use small black buttons for the face, and add a felt carrot nose. Tiny scarves or hats are a nice touch if you’re feeling extra crafty.
7) Button-embellished tote bag
Give a plain canvas tote some personality by sewing buttons onto it. Scatter them for a playful look or line them up for a more orderly vibe.
Mix up the sizes and colors for extra interest. Just use a needle and thread to sew each button on tight so they don’t pop off when you’re out and about.
8) Button magnets for fridge
Turn spare buttons into handy fridge magnets in no time. Just grab some buttons, strong glue, and small craft magnets.
Glue a magnet to the back of each button and let it dry. Pop them on your fridge or a magnetic board – instant color and charm for your kitchen!
They’re great for holding up notes or photos, too.
9) Button coasters with resin
Button coasters are a fun way to mix art and function. You’ll need a bunch of buttons, resin casting supplies, and some circular molds (silicone coaster molds or even old lids work).
Arrange your buttons in the mold, then pour the resin over the top. The clear resin locks the buttons in and gives a smooth, waterproof finish. Mixing up button sizes and colors makes each coaster unique.
10) Button-covered lampshade
A plain lampshade gets a whole new look when you cover it with buttons. Use hot glue to stick buttons right onto the shade.
Go for coordinating colors if you want something subtle, or mix it up for a bolder effect. This is a great way to use up random buttons you’ve collected.
The end result is textured, fun, and adds a cozy vibe to any room.
11) Button-embellished greeting cards
Buttons can make handmade greeting cards pop. Arrange them as balloons, cake toppers, or flower centers, depending on your card’s theme.
Pick buttons that fit your design, such as hearts for Valentine’s, bright ones for birthdays. Glue them onto cardstock, then add drawn details like stems or strings with markers.
It’s a simple way to make cards that feel personal and memorable.
12) Button wreath for holidays
A festive button wreath is easy to whip up with about 70 to 100 buttons in your favorite colors. Cut a 25cm piece of craft wire and bend one end so the buttons don’t slip off.
Thread on the buttons, mixing sizes and shades as you go. Shape the wire into a circle and twist the ends to secure.
Add a ribbon for hanging and you’re done! A simple, cheerful decoration for any holiday.
13) Button keychains
Button keychains are a quick way to use up extra buttons and make something useful. String colorful buttons onto a key ring in whatever pattern strikes your fancy.
They’re easy to make, take just a few minutes, and are perfect as gifts or party favors. Mix up the shapes and colors to suit different tastes or seasons.
14) Button bookmarks
Button bookmarks are both cute and practical. Glue buttons to big paperclips, or stick them onto felt strips with hot glue. It’s a no-fuss project that uses stuff you probably already have.
These are especially fun for kids’ books and make sweet handmade gifts. Try different button combos to match your own style or the recipient’s.
15) Button hair accessories
Plain hair accessories get a major upgrade with buttons. Attach them to bobby pins or barrettes using a hot glue gun – it’s quick and easy.
You can also add buttons to headbands, hair ties, or clips. Match the colors to outfits or stick with neutrals for versatility. These make thoughtful, one-of-a-kind gifts.
16) Button phone case decor
For a playful, tactile vibe, glue a mix of colorful or vintage buttons onto a clear phone case. You can arrange them in a neat mosaic or just scatter a few for a minimalist look that lets your phone’s color peek through.
It adds a fun 3D texture and a pop of personality to your everyday tech!
17) Button Necklace
Give your favorite outfit a little extra soul by threading a mix of mismatched fall-toned buttons onto a simple cord. The earthy reds and golds give off such a warm, handmade vibe that’s way more interesting than a standard store-bought necklace.
It’s a quick way to wear those autumn colors – simple, but it feels totally unique.
18) Festive Button curtain tiebacks
Ever thought about jazzing up plain curtain tiebacks? Try sewing on some vintage or colorful buttons, it’s a quirky touch that works especially well in kids’ rooms or craft corners. Honestly, it’s a low-effort way to add a bit of personality without overhauling the whole space.
Grab some fabric strips or ribbon, pick out a handful of buttons you like (the more mismatched, the better, if you ask me), and get your basic sewing kit ready. You can stitch the buttons along the tieback or even use fabric glue if you’re not in the mood for sewing.