Fair Trade Buttons
				In the late 1980s a small company was set up in Johannesburg, South Africa. Working around a kitchen table, often late into the night, Jennifer was busy transforming small pieces of clay into buttons of all shapes and sizes. Many of the first designs, which are still popular today, were inspired by Africa’s rich ethnic artworks and distinctive wild animals. As the company evolved, ladies from the local community were hired and trained in the art of button making. Today, Jennifer’s entire family, as well as 45 women from the local community, are involved in the button business.		I never thought Fair Trade buttons could be so decorative until I discovered these ceramic buttons imported from South Africa.
						Each button is made and painted entirely by hand. Once made each button is dried outside in the warm South African sun then fired to a bisque and hand painted. At this stage they are taken through a 24-hour firing to the hottest temperature the colours will withstand, to ensure their complete durability and extreme hardiness. Each card size measures approximately 5cm x16.5cm . This will enable you to envisage the actual button size which varies according to design as per product photo. If you require exact sizes please contact Anna McDowell at Henry's Buttons. A selection of these buttons are for sale at the Gold Hill Gallery at the top of Gold Hill, Shaftesbury, Dorset. You can also purchase a few from the Shopping page. For further information please contact me on Henry's Button.
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