Do you know how to sew a button properly? The method varies for different kinds of button. So we’re here to reveal everything you need know about sewing every type of button in this easy step by step guide.
What Kind of Button do you want to Sew?
How to sew a button depends upon its size and its style.
Size
Large buttons (ranging from 18mm to 30mm) are usually used for coats, jackets, blazers and peacoats.
These are sewn differently to small buttons (ranging from 10 to 15mm) and usually found on shirts, cardigans and sweaters.
Style
There are two main button styles:
Shank buttons have a metal or plastic loop on the underside of the button. This is called the shank.
Flat Buttons have either two or four holes in their surface. You sew through these holes to fasten the button to the fabric.
So now you know what you’re working with, it’s time to take a look at the different sewing methods we use to attach each of these different button types.
How to Sew a 2 Hole Button
Two hole buttons usually come in small sizes. You’re most likely to find them on a shirt. They’re very easy and quick to sew. Just follow these steps:
- Double your thread and tie a knot at the ends. Then thread your needle.
- Position your button in line with the button hole.
- Push your needle and thread through the underside of the fabric until it stops at the knot.
- Pass the needle through one button hole and then the other.
- Push your needle and thread back through the fabric until the button is pulled flat against the fabric.
- Wrap your thread around the needle, pull to create a knot and then trim your thread.
How to Sew a 4 Hole Button
Large buttons for coats, jackets or blazers require a slightly different sewing method to the smaller ones used on cardigans or shirts. So let’s start with how to sew large 4 hole buttons:
- Quadruple your thread so you need to make fewer stitches. Knot the ends. Then thread your needle.
- Position your button in line with the button hole.
- Push your needle and thread through the underside of the fabric until it stops at the knot.
- Pass the needle through one button hole, through the hole diagonally opposite and then back through the fabric.
- Repeat the previous two stages for the two remaining button holes.
- Next wrap your thread around the stitches four times. This ensures your button isn’t sewn so tightly that it makes fastening the garment difficult.
- Now, pass your needle through the stitches and then back through to the underside of the fabric.
8. Finally, wrap your thread around the needle to make a knot and then trim the excess thread.
Sewing a small 4 hole button is pretty similar to sewing a large one. However, there are a few key differences.
You should double your thread rather than quadrupling it. And you can skip steps 6 and 7 in the guide above.
How to Sew a Shank Button
Large shank buttons are used on coats. Small shank buttons are used on cardigans and sweaters. They come in a variety of different styles and materials.
Check out this article to find out all about shank buttons.
Once you’re ready to sew your button, here’s what you need to do:
- Double your thread, knot the end and thread your needle.
- Position your button in line with the button hole.
- Push your needle and thread through the underside of the fabric until it stops at the knot.
- Pass your needle and thread through the shank and back through to the underside of the fabric.
- Make a second stitch.
- Wrap your thread around the needle to make a knot and then trim the excess thread.
So there you have it – everything you ever wanted to know about how to sew a button, any kind of button!
We hope you found this article useful. If you’d like to brush up on your button knowledge, check out our other articles.
And if you’re interested in seeing the wide range of buttons available at SUNMEI BUTTON, take a look at our button styles or contact us today for catalogues and samples.
Looking for more information? We can help you!
SUNMEI BUTTON
SUNMEI is a specialized manufacturer of acrylic rhinestone and button for over 20 years. We provide a wide selections of acrylic rhinestones and buttons. Visit our product page and find out more styles!
