A Guide on How to Sew a Button or Buttonhole
Buttons in sewing play a crucial role in both functionality and style. They are small but essential part of many garments and can also be a decorative element. In this article, we’ll discuss what are the common types of buttons, some tips on how to sew a button and buttonhole stitching. Let’s get started!
Common Types of Buttons
- Fabric Covered buttons: These buttons are generally covered with fabric. If you want to match the buttons same as the fabric of your dresses, blouses and skirts you can use these type of clothing buttons for a custom look.
- Sew-through Buttons: Also known as flat buttons, these kinds of buttons have two or four holes for sewing directly onto fabric. These are often used as garment buttons for school uniforms, skirts, pants, blouses, polos, children’s clothing etc.
- Shank Buttons: This is the type of button with a shank, a small bar or ring construction with a hole allowing fabric to sit underneath.
- Snap Buttons: Also known as snap fasteners, these buttons has interlocking fasteners that snap together. These has several types like sew on snap buttons, press snaps, stud snaps and more.
- Stud Buttons: Typically used in denim pieces such as pants and jackets. These buttons are quite different as they are considered as no sew buttons. They are commonly made out of metal and can be attach to the fabric by using a hammer or a specialized press tool.
How to Sew a Button
Sewing a button is a basic skill that every beginner should learn. It’s a simple task that can be completed by hand or with button sewing machines. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
Hand-Sewn Button
Materials: Button, Needle, Thread, Fabric, Scissors
Step 1. Thread the needle and tie the loose ends together. Tip: Double your thread over to make it more stronger.
Step 2. Mark the button placement. Place the button in the desired location on the fabric.
Step 3. Insert the Needle. Pass the needle up through one of the hole. Tip: For a clean finish, you can start to pass the needle from the front side of the fabric. In that way, the knot of the thread would not be visible as it was covered by the button.
Step 4. Sew the Button. For two-hole buttons, pass the needle down through the opposite hole. Repeat 4-6 times. If it’s a four-hole button, sew through one hole to the opposite hole, then switch to the remaining holes, forming an “X” or parallel lines.
Step 5. Secure the button. Create a shank, use the needle to wrap your thread around the threads underneath the button. Then, tie a knot to secure the thread. Trim excess thread.
- Did you know? Embroidery machines are also a good option for creating buttonholes.
Using a Sewing Machine
Materials: Button, Thread, Fabric, Scissors, Button Sewing Machine
Step 1. Prepare the Fabric. Place the Fabric under the machine’s presser foot, aligning it with the button placement.
Step 2. Select the Button Type. Choose the appropriate button setting on the machine. (if applicable).
Step 3. Position the Button. Place the button directly under the presser foot, ensuring it aligns with the machine’s guidelines.
Step 4. Start sewing. Activate the machine to begin sewing. The machine will automatically create the stitches around the button.
Step 5. Finish and cut. Once the machine finishes, lift the presser foot and remove the fabric. Cut the thread as needed.
That’s it! Whether you’ve lost a button or need to replace one, you can now confidently sew a button on pants, on your favorite skirts, on your school uniforms or even put a cute little red button on sewing your first ever dress. But, how about the buttonholes? Don’t worry, we also prepared a step-by-step guide for you.
Our Dresses To Improve Your Button Sewing Skills
Looking for a perfect pattern to test your new button sewing skills? Have a look at our exclusive button sewing patterns.
Buttonhole Stitching
Buttonhole stitch is often used to secure the edges of buttonholes. It creates looped effect to finish raw edges of the fabric. There are some simple methods to do it - you can hand sew a buttonhole, use buttonhole machines or create a bound buttonhole. Follow the steps below on how to do it.
Hand-Stitched Buttonhole
Materials: Needle, thread, fabric, scissors.
Step 1. Mark the buttonhole location.
Step 2. Start stitching a straight stitch forming a rectangle.
Step 3. Cut a small slit in the fabric where marked.
Step 4. Continue stitching in a circular motion until the desire width is achieved wrapping the thread around the edges to reinforce.
Step 5. Tie off securely.
Machine-Stitched Buttonhole
Materials: Sewing machine with a buttonhole foot, fabric, button
Step 1. Attach a buttonhole foot.
Step 2. Measure the size of the button and mark the buttonhole location on the fabric.
Step 3. Select the buttonhole stitch setting on your sewing machine.
Step 4. Position the fabric and start stitching, following the machine’s instructions.
Step 5. Once completed, cut the center slit carefully.
Bound Buttonhole
Materials: Fabric strips, needle, thread
Step 1. Cut two binding strips of fabric, and pin it facing the right side together.
Step 2. Mark the buttonhole placement by drawing a small rectangle.
Step 3. Sew the binding fabric over the marked area, leaving the center open.
Step 4. Cut the center carefully.
Step 5. Turn the binding strips to the inside of buttonhole, then press for a neat finish.
By following these methods, you can now create durable and neat buttonholes. With a bit of practice and patience, you’ll find that sewing a button and creating buttonholes can be an enjoyable part of your sewing journey. Happy stitching!