Chinese flower buttons (Pankou) have been officially recognized as part of Hong Kong’s Intangible Cultural Heritage. This year, our Technology and Living Department officially integrated this traditional craft into the curriculum, allowing students to experience the depth of their cultural heritage through hands-on practice.
The curriculum is designed to build skills progressively across year groups:
Secondary 1: Students focus on the "Straight Button" (Yi-zi Button), mastering the foundational techniques of winding and shaping the cord.
Secondary 2: Students take their skills a step further by designing their own unique patterns and bringing them to life through intricate craftsmanship.
This year, our Secondary 2 students challenged themselves by creating multi-colored and three-dimensional designs. From using specialized tools to twist and fold fabric strips to the final stitching and shaping, every step demanded immense patience and focus. Through this process, they have developed a profound respect and appreciation for traditional Chinese craftsmanship.
Today, the Secondary 2 students personally adorned their white Cheongsam uniforms with handcrafted buttons in various shapes—including butterflies, maple leaves, and peacocks. This transformed a "touchable tradition" into a natural part of their daily school life. Compared to any textbook description, this lived experience is far more moving and authentic.
We are incredibly proud of our students' creativity and dedication. We hope that the "warmth" of this handmade craft will plant a seed of appreciation for traditional culture in their hearts that will continue to grow.
