A button stick refers to a small tool or implement that is specifically designed for fastening buttons on garments or other items. It is typically made of wood, plastic, or metal and usually shaped like a slender rod or stick. The tool often features a pointed end that is slightly curved or rounded, which allows it to easily guide the thread or string through the buttonholes.
The button stick is used by inserting it through the buttonhole and positioning the button in the desired location on the fabric. By holding the stick in place, it serves as a stabilizer, preventing the button from moving while the thread is being secured. This allows for more convenient and efficient button attachment, especially with tiny or hard-to-reach buttons.
Button sticks are commonly employed by professional tailors, seamstresses, and individuals engaged in garment repair or sewing projects. They are particularly useful when working on cuffs, collars, and other areas where a secure attachment is essential. The tool provides added precision and control during the button-sewing process, resulting in neat and durable button fastening.
In summary, a button stick is a slender tool designed to facilitate the attachment of buttons onto garments. It offers stability and control, making button sewing more convenient and efficient, especially for small or hard-to-reach buttons.
The etymology of the word "button stick" can be traced back to the Middle English language. The word "button" comes from the Old French word "boton", which means a bud or knot. It eventually entered English in the 14th century. The word "stick" has its origins in Old English and is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "stikaz", meaning a pointed piece of wood.
When combined, the term "button stick" refers to a tool used for fastening buttons on clothing. The stick-type instrument has a pointed end for pushing the button through the fabric, and it often has a hook or loop on the other end for fastening the button securely. The etymology emphasizes the functions and characteristics of the object itself - a pointed piece of wood used for buttons.