Cloth (Canvas) Back

Part Number: BACK-CLOTH

$0.00

Canvas Back - 20 pieces

Canvas Back AL - 1 GR (144)

Canvas Back AL - 5 GR (720)

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A historic button style (patented 1825 by Benjamin Saunders) in which a small piece of cloth serves as the shank. Also called a pad back, tuft back, or pad shank button.

This is the traditional bridal button (especially when made with satin) because they can be sewn very quickly in long rows on wedding dresses as functional fasteners or to disguise a zipper. Also used when a very low shank is desired, often for decorative applications, because the canvas can be pressed flat after attachment. Excellent for doll clothes, christening gowns, and period costumes.

Canvas backs meet international standards in all sizes. They do not fit unmodified Osborne, Wade, and newer C & C Metal button dies in sizes #16, #18, #20, and #22. They fit some Rowley button dies when paired with low wall shells —follow link for more information.

We generally recommend aluminum backs be paired with aluminum shells, but have found RR shells often work better with thicker materials —always test! Low Wall shells are a good choice for many fabrics, but Ultra Low Wall might be a better choice for thin fussy synthetics.

Also compatible with Flat and Full Ball shells (full ball shells require a FB die).

NOTE: Sometimes fabric will not catch entirely inside the back —if this happens, cut fabric into larger circles (use a cutter one size larger for best results). You may also need to experiment with lining and interfacing materials, but that is true of all covered buttons.

Canvas backs are authentic to the American Civil War period, although materials used in the modern version are not. Mid-19th century factory-made canvas backs were made of steel, cotton, and cardboard and manufactured until the early 1980s. Appearance and function of modern aluminum canvas backs are identical to the old. Finished buttons can even be washed, which is a definite improvement over the original.

Available only in aluminum.

Button shells (fronts) sold separately.

Link to "How To Sew On Satin Covered Buttons" used with permission of the author.