Cheap, Custom PC Coat Button Closure

[cavscout]

As I wrap up my Eton Jacket Conversion, I need to make a custom chain button hole closure. I checked out the wlamart craft area and found this Charm Bracelet kit for $1.88. It has a good size silver chain with 8 split rings and 8 lobster claw clasps. If I had time to actually cut the button holes in the jacket I would put the split rings thru my buttons and then attach the chain to each split ring and it done (trim the chain to length of course).

http://community.webshots.com/photo/470526414/2228112410069831397Sxmydr

What I'll do in the interim is stitch the split ring to the inside of the jacket and attach the lobster claw to the chain, then to close the jacket just clip the lobsster claw to the split ring.

[davedove]

I'll have to look for that kit. Even I could handle something like that.

You know, I've been looking around for replacement button and chain closures, and they are next to impossible to find. You would think that over the years someone would have to replace their chain (because of loss, breakage, or whatever) and somebody would supply it.

[cavscout]

The British Shop is the only place I've ever seen them. Not bad for $5 but If I have to go to the trouble to swap the buttons anyway, why not make the hole thing. $1.88 for the kit which probably could make 2 chains, and 2 buttons at $.70 + Shipping brings the total to just about what the chain from the British shop would be.

[davedove]

I went to the craft shop and picked up a package of split rings for $3, which gives enough rings to make several chains. Then a trip to the fabric shop for two buttons for $1.50. It took me about an hour to put together. Here's the finished product:



Of course, you could use about any button you wanted. I did try it on the jacket and it works pretty well. The only thing is I would like to put some kind of clasp on the opposite side of the fabric from the button to secure it in the hole a little better.

[cavscout]

Looks great Dave. And it's just that simple