Anna McDowell

About Me

My interest in the Dorset Button industry was developed during my time as Chairman of the Gold Hill Museum in Shaftesbury Dorset. Social history has always been an interest of mine and Dorset Buttons spiked my interest. Having read the available history on these small simple buttons, and seen them in museum collections, I realised how important they were in shaping the livelihoods of ordinary people living in East Dorset. This interest grew into a passion and I not only learnt how to make Dorset Buttons, but also researched their history and the impact of national events on this cottage industry.

Learning the techniques of how to make the basic Dorset Cartwheel/Crosswheel Button from a kit, I developed my skills with the help of master Dorset Buttoners.

From the basic button, I have since managed the skills of making all four types of Dorset buttons:

1. High Top and Dorset Knob: the first Dorset Buttons and made with sheep’s horn, fabric and thread

2. Birdseye and Mite: using just fabric and thread.

3. Singleton: made with wire rings, fabric and thread.

4. Dorset Cartwheel and Blandford Crosswheel: using wire rings and thread.

My buttons have a variety of uses notably commissions for film work, including the recent “Far From the Madding Crowd” starring Carey Mulligan who wore them on many of her outfits. To provide authenticity to period costumes, I work with Living History Groups, including Hampton Court Palace, where I made buttons for the re-enactors from the Georgian chocolate kitchen. I have also designed buttons for fashion designers and take individual commissions.

My aim is to keep this heritage craft alive in today’s environment. My Dorset Buttons are worked in the traditional way using contemporary materials and designs. I have developed a range of very successful workshops covering both the traditional Dorset Buttons and how to incorporate contemporary yarns, threads, lace and beads using new designs. Some of my Dorset Button contemporaries have called me a Master Dorset Buttoner. I also give talks and presentations. I sell buttons rings, kits and instructions for making Dorset Buttons through my online Etsy Shop, Dorset Buttons.

I teach the heritage craft of Dorset Buttons and how this craft can be used using contemporary designs and materials.