The Upholstery Forum

Hello, for my small tufted upholstery project I need twelve buttons: size 30 (i.e., 3/4" in diameter) and to be covered with leather.

I was wondering if those cheap diy "craft cover button kits" sold in craft stores and online are sturdy enough for upholstery leather projects?

Alternatively, if I bring to the local upholstery shop the leather circles already cut to size, would $5 per button be too much to be charged? Would appreciate any comment! Thanks, s.

Hi @scarum! Ive never used those craft button kits but it would be worth a try.
$5 per button seams excessive. I would think it would be $1-2 each. Try asking your local fabric supplier. They will usually make buttons for you for cheep.

Thanks John! Will stop by the local upholstery shop again to inquire about buttons. They weren't very helpful or super welcoming though when I asked them to sell me scraps of leather and a piece of foam.

@scarum i can’t help you with the buttons, but I’m glad places like this forum exist. Cause the local
Places are harsh to me too. They never see a reason to work together and help one another. Just view it as competition.

@scarum Fabric shop buttons won't hold up to pressing leather between the pieces. A lot of time you have to skive the leather down even for the commercial button maker. I only have a size 22 die or I'd make them for you.

Thanks Cody, hapyrdr and Karyl-Lynn! I guess I will stay away from those diy button kits. Thanks for the video; haven't seen this particular one on diy buttons, but recognized the hands! Super-informative channel it is. I am still working on the bench itself (shaping, sanding, then finishing) and the leather pattern for the seat, so will be ready to attach buttons in two-three weeks at best. Thank you for the generous offer, Karyl-Lynn! I'll keep it in mind. Best, s.