Learning from home at your own pace, in your own time. There is no time limit to access this course.

This course will teach you how to make 15 different ring buttons using a variety of techniques.

Ring buttons have a long history - it is believed that the first ring buttons in England were made in the Dorset region around 1720. However, other European countries also have traditions of ring buttons - called Zwirnknopf/e (literally "thread button"). This course will show you how to make buttons using both the Dorset and zwirnknopf techniques. The buttons featured range from traditional designs to modern variations.

This is a great introductory course for complete beginners, and an equally good refresher course for anyone who has tried thread button making in any form in the past. Each button instruction is by way of a video - shot from above, enabling you to see what is happening. Gina explains the process, and you can start and stop the videos as you require. The button modules are sequential, with a few more challenging designs to test your skills.

There are also 9 exercises - ideas for you to try once the initial buttons are successfully created. There are no direct instructions here, rather suggestions to encourage your creativity, just as if you were in a workshop with Gina.

You will also receive access to a closed Facebook group where you can share images of your work, ask questions, or just say hello to other students.

As a bonus, all students of this course will also receive free access to an additional course - Finishing Your Buttons.

Materials & tools required:

The following tools and materials have been used on the course. You may of course choose a differently sized button mould or thread, but in order to follow the instructions as shown, you may find it easier to use the same materials.

A Materials pack - including threads, moulds, needles, fabric and beeswax has been put together and is available in our online shop - Dorset & Other Ring Buttons Course Materials Pack.

You can use your one-time student discount code (which you will find in the tools & materials section when you enroll) at the shop checkout for a 20% discount*

Materials:

Tools:

Scissors
Beeswax
Tapestry needle
Sharp needle
Pencil/chalk

Optional Tools:

Available in our online store at www.ginabsilkworks.co.uk

*Code may only be used once per student