Origins

In the olden days, the Chinese Button knot was mainly used on traditional Cheong-sam dresses as a button, hence its name. It is very useful as a starting or ending knot as it retains its shape well, so it is also referred to as a stopper or knob. The Shanghai version is call Pan-kou 盘扣, and the patterns are made by quilling fabric strips. Have you heard of paper quilling? The Pan-kou is a combination of fabric knotting and fabric quilling. Sometimes, cotton wool is stuffed inside the strips to create a 3D effect.

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Cultures

Many cultures have their own version of the Button knot. 

- Celtic Diamond knots are sometimes flat, and look like the common buttons we see on shirts and blouses. It can also be pulled into a ball.

- Korean Lotus knots have slightly different tying steps, but will also result in a ball-like structure.

- Japanese Shaka knots are identical to the Chinese Button knots.

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Adaptations

Look for different ways to use things, and here are some ideas of Button knots with a difference.

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Combine Button knots with Lucky knots and turn them into a button set.

Put in a bead and wear them as a necklace.

Use them on skirts and t-shirts as embellishments.

Add them to bags, pouches and pencil-cases.

Sew them on cushions, pillow cases and sofas.

Glue them on gift boxes, makeup boxes and candy boxes.

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