Probing the market. . . Steampunk buttons.

I am considering fabricating some Steampunk buttons from polymer clay. The first design I am planning is buttons made to look like gears with three holes. One should backstitch through the holes to form a triangular "axle" design to fasten them to clothing. The other is buttons that look like clocks, with the holes designed so that when fastened the thread forms the hour and minute hands. They would be around 3/4" to 1" in diameter, as I plan them.

I am wondering who would be interested in buying these, and at what price? I am thinking (if I can get them made) one dollar American per button, with shipping charges. I would keep them on the market here first, then if I made enough move to Etsy or Ebay. I will post this on the Brass Goggles as well.

Well, good idea, I would buy it... 1$ is good prize for "custom" buttons.
Problem is that I'm not in US...

How durable would they be?

That is of the utmost concern to me as I have a few broken buttons where something chomped down on them...

It's not my fault, macaws like buttons. If they're much more fragile than regular buttons I'd have to be very careful with them...

Z.

I love the idea, though I am not in the market for buttons at the moment. Your price is actually a little low if they are of decent quality. I just spent $22 including shipping for a dozen 20mm buttons for my favorite suit coat on this site. I think at $1 each, you should do well.

Rev. R. Farrier