Hi June, I make the buttons with white earthenware clay and then fire them in a kiln. I know you can buy a polymer clay in the craft dept. I have never tried that clay but I've seen beautiful buttons made out of it. You can also find small wooden shapes and drill holes in them for buttons. I cut out the shapes with small cookie cutters. There are different places you can order them online. Just google mini cookie cutters. Some buttons I fire twice and glaze, but the pumpkin and cat head I paint with regular old acrylic paints! I love experimenting with different techniques with paints.....hope this helps! Don't be afraid to try different techniques and see what you like the best!