button shanks

[David Robertson]

Hi, shylo,

This is an excellent question, meaning of course that it's beyond my knowledge level!  Anyone else out there have pointers?

--Dave

[metaphysician]

You need to be more specific on the type.  If it's a plastic button, you might try heating it in water.  Most plastics buttons are made of will be chewed badly by most solvents.  If it's a metal button, and acetone doesn't work, lacquer thinner or methanol (wood alcohol) might work.  If you can give more information, I might have a few more suggestions.  My day job is as an analytical chemist.

[shylo]

Has anyone had any success removing the shanks from buttons with a solvent? I'm looking for information on what kind of solvent and tools would work to gently remove the shanks without damaging the button.

[Russ Nobbs]

Very often a razor blade or x-acto knife blade can be carefully slid under the button shank and pop it off.

The maker of several of our 2 part epoxy glues, Hughes, makes an adhesive solvent called "Attack" that is more aggressive in removing adhesives. It is also harsher and more dangerous to use. Either of these can be used in a glass jar with a metal or glass lid as they often need from several hours to several days to remove an adhesive.  Most rock shops and lapidary supply houses carry "Attack."

Years ago Rings & Things manufactured a line of crystal post earrings. We used acetone to remove the posts that were glued-up improperly. “Attack” would do the job faster.

Solvents need to be tested on the button. “Attack” and acetone will slowly degrade many glues but will also affect the finish of a plastic button or even the button shank. Test either product on a single button before dunking 40 of them in a jar of solvent.

Hope this helps!