Button Molds, Parts of Buttons & Button Blanks

A button blank is an intermediate form that has not yet been drilled, shanked, or otherwise finished for use as a fastener. Once holes are punched or a shank is attached, CBP generally treats the article as a finished button subject to the appropriate finished-button subheading. The line can be fact-specific, and importers uncertain about the degree of finishing should seek a CBP binding ruling.

Casein, a milk-derived protein plastic, was the dominant button material for much of the 20th century and retains a niche in high-end shirting and tailoring. Its distinct material composition and separate commercial identity in the trade warranted its own line (9606304000). Importers of casein blanks should be prepared to provide material composition documentation, as the substance can resemble synthetic resins visually.