Button size converter
Convert button sizes between lignes, millimeters and inches, for sewing patterns and button shops.
11.43mm
That's about the same as a shirt button.
What it means
How big is that button?
Measured across the button’s widest point. The buttonhole should be about 3 mm longer than the button.
Every unit
That button in every unit
Learn
Three things worth knowing
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40L = 1 inch
Lignes × 0.635 = mm; 18L ≈ 11.4 mm, 24L ≈ 15.2 mm.
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German button trade
The button ligne (Linie) was standardised by German makers in the 18th century and spread with the trade.
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Two lignes
The watch ligne is 2.256 mm; the button ligne is 0.635 mm.
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Background
About button lignes
Button makers measure diameter in lignes (L): one ligne is a fortieth of an inch, 0.635 mm, so 40L is exactly 1 inch. Shirts use 14–18L, jackets 24–32L, coats 36–54L.