Seashell, snail, abalone, horn, wood, and octopus buttons are traditional recycling methods that not only help regenerate natural resources into useful products, reduce waste, but also create aesthetic and sustainable value, bringing natural and unique beauty to fashion products.
The Story of a Seashell
Seashells, snail shells, and abalone shells are among the most precious and high-quality materials used to make buttons and jewelry accessories.
Wood and coconut
From tropical wood grown for harvest, to products made from coconut and palm trees, these raw materials are selected with respect for the environment and transformed into finished products.
The Horn Controversy
If we stop at the concept of “horn”, we will be stuck in the debate about hygiene standards and animal protection. In the field of sustainable recycling, the protection of the animal world is the top criteria. The buttons, jewelry and accessories recycled here are selected from cow horns.
Resurrected with Hoang Mai
Corozo, also known as "corozo," is a natural material made from the seeds of the Phytelephas (corozo tree), a tropical tree that grows primarily in parts of South America, especially Ecuador, Colombia, and Panama. The seeds of the corozo tree are hard and brightly colored, and are often crafted into buttons, jewelry, and other crafts.
Corozo is popular for its durability and resistance to abrasion, and for being able to be crafted into a variety of shapes and colors, so it is often used as an alternative to materials such as plastic in the production of buttons and high-end fashion products.
Sustainable recycling process
1. Collect and prepare ingredients
- Choose shells/snail shells: Choose shells or snail shells that are hard, not easily broken, have a smooth surface and beautiful natural colors and patterns.
- Cleaning: Soak the shells in water to remove dirt, sand and impurities. Vinegar or salt water can be added to remove odors and brighten the natural color.
2. Cut and shape
- Cut the shell: Use a small saw or a specialized saw blade to cut the shell into small pieces, with a thickness suitable for the size of the button.
- Flattening: Use sandpaper or a grinder to flatten both sides of the shell, helping to achieve even smoothness and thickness.
3. Create button shape
- Shape: Use a cutter or sharpener to shape the button (round, square, or any shape you want).
- Smooth the edges: Continue to smooth the edges of the button to remove sharp corners, making the product safe and easy to use.
4. Drill holes
- Locate the button holes: Use a pen to mark the location where you want to drill (usually 2 or 4 holes depending on the design).
- Drilling holes: Use a small drill or hand drill to make button holes. The hole diameter should fit the size of the sewing thread.
5. Polishing
- Hand Polishing: Use fine sandpaper or polishing cloth to brighten the button surface, highlighting the natural color of the shell.
- Use a polish (optional): Mineral oil or wax can be used to add shine and protect the buttons from scratches.
6. Check and complete
- Check the buttons to make sure there are no cracks or holes that are too large.
- Sort and classify buttons by size, shape and color before putting them into fashion products.
Note:
- Seashells are natural materials with varying degrees of hardness and brittleness and require gentle handling to avoid breakage.
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