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Hello! I’m Kimura from the ApparelX Sustainable Team.
Have you heard of the word "casein"?
Recently, casein buttons made from milk-derived protein have been getting renewed attention.
As the push for environmentally conscious materials grows stronger, this is a material that can also add brand storytelling and differentiation.
Today, we’re introducing these "casein buttons"!
Casein is one of the main proteins contained in milk, accounting for about 80% of the solid components in milk. It is obtained as a byproduct separated during the production of cheese and yogurt.
It has long been used not only in the food field but also for industrial applications. The fact that byproducts can be used as resources without being discarded is highly valued from a sustainability perspective.
Casein resin was developed in the early 20th century. In Germany, a resin called "Galalith" was born and came to be used for buttons, decorative items, fountain pens, and more.
At the time, it was prized as an "artificially made natural material" and was widely used as a standard material for high-end buttons in prewar Europe.
Casein buttons are created through the following process.
1️⃣ Extract casein protein from milk
2️⃣ React it with a hardening agent and process it into a resin-like material
3️⃣ Form it into rods or sheets, then carve it into button shapes
4️⃣ Achieve its unique sheen and color through dyeing and polishing
While derived from natural materials, it is possible to create a glossy shine and a wide variety of colors.
Advantages
Sustainability: Uses milk byproducts and helps reduce waste
Premium sheen: A deep luster unique to natural materials
Versatile expression: Excellent dyeability and a rich variety of colors
Practicality: Has sufficient hardness and is suitable for everyday use
Disadvantages
Low water resistance: Care is needed for prolonged exposure to water or humidity
Sensitive to heat: May deform in high-temperature environments
Not suited to mass production: Inferior to plastic in cost and efficiency
Caution for children’s clothing: When using it, check compliance with formaldehyde regulations
*For children’s clothing in Japan, strict standards are set by the Household Goods Quality Labeling Law (formaldehyde regulations). For accessories, you must use items that have passed the formaldehyde test (such as JIS L1041).
Choosing "casein material buttons" is not just about environmental consciousness; it also becomes an element that helps tell a brand story. "Circularity" that turns milk byproducts into resources "Tradition" with a long history "Premium quality" that feels like a natural material This kind of background becomes a "sustainable value people can relate to" for consumers and helps differentiate the brand.
A standard popular item from the manufacturer. With its soft texture, it pairs well with ladies’ knit materials.
It comes in a wide range of sizes from 8MM to 40MM, so it can also be used for hidden buttons on outerwear.
A rounded semi-circular button with a unique texture.
It is the only material that brings out a shine in every part, including under the narrow ring, the edge, and inside the buttonhole, by taking advantage of the properties of casein material.
*The number of buttons that can be made from 1 liter of milk is only 3 pieces at 20 mm, making it very valuable.
Single Thread-21 Casein resin tunnel shank button with glossy motif
A flower-motif tunnel shank button made with casein resin.
It’s rare to find a sustainable material used for a raised motif button.
LH1179 Casein resin tunnel shank button
A tunnel shank button made of casein resin. It is pre-colored, so you can use it as is.
Available up to 35MM, so it is also recommended as a substitute for nut buttons on outerwear.
Finally 🖊️
What did you think? Casein buttons have a history of more than 100 years, and are once again being recognized as a sustainable material today. Even small hardware can reflect a brand’s attitude. For your next collection, we hope you’ll consider casein buttons that balance environmental care and beauty.
Please see the ApparelX casein button product page here.
