Button Preservation

[SpacemanSpiff]

What is the best way to preserve relics - especially like the two piece civil war buttons, pewter, etc -so last and don’t fall apart. I’ve heard people say petroleum jelly, Renaissance Wax, among others. What’s y’all’s take? Thanks in advance!

 

[Jeff H]

I have used white glue diluted with water on pewter but I actually prefer hair spray for those flakey buttons. I have a USA button that I found years ago that was flaking on the edge. The wife's hairspray really got into those nooks and sealed it tight. Every few years I might give it a spray and it is holding up great.

 

[traveller777]

What is the best way to preserve relics - especially like the two piece civil war buttons, pewter, etc -so last and don’t fall apart. I’ve heard people say petroleum jelly, Renaissance Wax, among others. What’s y’all’s take? Thanks in advance!

You can not go wrong with Renaissance Wax. I started using about 10 years ago and all the buttons and buckles look like the day I coated them. I am a fan, but I am sure you will get many good ideas here.

 

[SpacemanSpiff]

You can not go wrong with Renaissance Wax. I started using about 10 years ago and all the buttons and buckles look like the day I coated them. I am a fan, but I am sure you will get many good ideas here.

How do you use it? Easy to use? Clear?

 

[traveller777]

How do you use it? Easy to use? Clear?

dead easy. I use a soft cotton cloth. Instructions on can. Yes, it is clear. Used by British Museum.

 

[traveller777]

How do you use it? Easy to use? Clear?

dead easy. I use a soft cotton cloth. Instructions on can. Yes, it is clear. Used by British Museum.

A little goes a long way.

 

[SpacemanSpiff]

dead easy. I use a soft cotton cloth. Instructions on can. Yes, it is clear. Used by British Museum.

Thank you! I’ll order some. I have a ton of civil war buttons and war of 1812 US pewter buttons I need to work on. They are still in great shape after all these years but I want them to last

 

[traveller777]

Thank you! I’ll order some. I have a ton of civil war buttons and war of 1812 US pewter buttons I need to work on. They are still in great shape after all these years but I want them to last

Make sure dry before coating. But sure, you knew that. You will be happy with it.