Oregon State Button Society, or OSBS, was founded in 1948. Collecting different objects for hobby was becoming increasingly popular in all segments of society. Button clubs and button societies were popping up everywhere to support those whose hobby was collecting buttons.
Many of us remember playing with our grandmother’s button box. This box may have been a shoe box or cookie tin or any random household container. Some of us now have that collection which was quietly passed down to us. Some of us became so enamored with this collection that we became collectors ourselves. We search for buttons in thrift stores and antique shops, garage sales and craft stores, possibly even online. And, if we are fortunate, we find others who share our passion.
Button clubs and societies bring together button lovers with the goals of teaching each other, learning, and collecting. Learning? . . . I am intrigued . . . What can you learn from a button? As you saw on the main page, a button is a part of a history lesson, an art lesson, and a sociology lesson. You learn how they were made; how to identify age, origin, and materials; what types of clothing they fastened or adorned; what the design represented; what was happening in the world when that little button was created.
A wonderful bonus of button club or button society membership is the friendships you make. You work together, learning and enjoying your hobby, with people who share your passion and can offer differing perspectives and knowledge.
If you want to see some amazing buttons, first come learn about our annual show, then check out the award-winning button trays that were entered into our competitions.
Become a Member of OSBS
The OSBS membership year is January 1 through December 31.
Membership benefits include a welcome kit, expanded activities and competition eligibility at the annual shows, three color educational bulletins per year, and additional events throughout the year. You will also have access to members-only resources on this website.
An annual adult membership is $20. Additional membership levels are available.
Click on the link below to access the membership application.
For additional information, please use the Contact OSBS button above. Include membership question in the subject line.
Do you want more? Please be sure to check out the Button Societies and Clubs page in this menu to learn about ways to become involved in local clubs and larger societies.
What else can OSBS do for (and with) you?
OSBS members love to share their knowledge and help others get started on their button collecting journey. OSBS has numerous members that are authors, well-known artists, excellent lecturers, and those who came to us from related fields, including fiber arts, history, and theater. Let us know how we can help!
Button Collection Consultation or Sale?
Do you have a button collection you need help with? OSBS Members are available for consultation. (Note: OSBS members do not do appraisals.) Members can also purchase collections you want to re-home.
If you would like to consult with a member, please use the Contact OSBS button above. Include collection consultation in the subject line.
Button Presentation?
Do you belong to a group that loves fiber arts (sewing, quilting), art, or history? Would you like a member of OSBS to make a presentation to your group? We have several members who have amazing presentations and exhibits. They would love to share their knowledge with your group. Our hobbies (or livelihoods) intersect in unexpected and delightful ways.
To request a presentation or discuss what OSBS has to offer your group, please use the Contact OSBS button above. Include presentation consultation in the subject line.
Donate
Oregon State Button Society is a 501(c)3 educational non-profit organization. If you are interested in donating buttons, button related items, or money to OSBS, please use the Contact OSBS button above. Include donation request in the subject line.
Your support is greatly appreciated.