Button-making and games in general have been a part of human culture for centuries. The word button itself comes from the Old French word "bouton," meaning small round object. It was originally used in the 16th century to describe a small coin that was used to fasten the laces of a shoe. In 1828, when sewing machines were invented, buttons became the most commonly used fastening devices. Buttons were made from whatever was available, such as metal or plastic. In 1964, when buttons were made from plastic, their use increased dramatically. Today, they are still among the most common and widely used fastening devices in the world. Button-making and games in general have been a part of human culture for centuries. The word button itself comes from the Old French word "bouton," meaning small round object. It was originally used in the 16th century to describe a small coin that was used to fasten the laces of a shoe. In 1828, when sewing machines were invented, buttons became the most commonly used fastening devices. Buttons were made from whatever was available, such as metal or plastic. In 1964, when buttons were made from plastic, their use increased dramatically. Today, they are still among the most common and widely used fastening devices in the world.