Mastering the art of button sewing: Expert techniques for a perfect fit
How many times have you, a skilled seamstress, been asked to sew on a button? And how many times have you said to yourself, "It's not complicated, why do I have to do it? They just have to do it themselves!
So here is an article to show to all those who ask you to sew a button, so they can do it by themselves, easily! And above all, that you don't have to do it anymore!
In this post, we'll explore the art of button sewing and provide you with expert techniques for achieving a perfect fit. You'll learn about the materials required for button sewing, how to choose the right button for your garment, and step-by-step instructions for sewing the button onto the fabric. Additionally, we'll share advanced techniques to take your button sewing skills to the next level. By the end of this post, you'll be equipped with the knowledge and expertise to sew a button like a pro.
Materials Required
Let’s be pratical here :
a button
the right color of thread
a needle
cissors
a little piece of fabric for renforcement (optional)
Choosing the Right Button
When choosing your button, think about design, placement and size. Is it to replace a button that has fallen off? Is it to dress up a pocket? (By the way, we did a great article on pockets, you can read it here)
There is no such thing as a "right button". But don't neglect the choice of your buttons. Think about the look you want because the buttons will determine the final look of your garment. You may have the coolest design or the most beautiful fabric, but if you choose buttons that look cheap, your garment will look cheap!
Preparing the Garment
Now that you have chosen your button, you can prepare the garment.
Firstly, you will mark where you are going to sew the button. To do this, use your buttonhole as a guide.
Place the two pieces to be attached as if they were closed with the button.
If the buttonhole is vertical, the button will be in the centre of the buttonhole. Take a pin and stick it in the middle. Then separate the two pieces and pin the pin so that you keep the marked place.
If the buttonhole is horizontal, the technique is the same but your button should be in the place closest to the edge of the garment.
Basically, as the buttonhole and the button will be in tension, if you place your button too far away, you will lose the right fastening.
I don't know if I'm being super clear, but take the example of the trouser button. If it's placed too far away, your waistband will be too loose and it will be neither pretty nor practical.
In order to reinforce the fabric to prevent it from fraying or tearing, you can add a small piece of fabric on the back. Often buttons are placed where the fabric is lined, just to make sure it's strong enough to withstand the stress of buttoning and unbuttoning. Think of button plackets, cuffs, or belts: it is very rare that a button is placed on a single layer.
Sewing the Button
Now let's see the step by step instructions for sewing the button onto the garment.
Take a thread, single or double, and make a knot. Cut the excess thread as short as possible.
Start by stitching from the same side of the button where you have placed your mark and go back and forth without the button (to strengthen the knot).
Go through your button 3 to 8 times depending on whether you have a single or double thread.
Come out through the back.
Then pass the thread twice in the same place to block your thread
Next, pass your thread through the intersection between the two layers of fabric and go a little further to lose your thread.
Pull the thread out and cut it.
This technique allows the thread at the end of the button to stay loose and makes it harder for the thread to come out and the button to come undone.
Expert Techniques
So that's the basic technique for sewing a button. Now let's see how you can step up your game in sewing buttons with some expert techniques.
Creating Shank Buttons
If you're sewing buttons onto a thick or heavy fabric, it can be helpful to create shank buttons. This involves sewing a small button or bead onto the back of the button before attaching it to the garment. The shank will give the button more space between the fabric and the button, allowing it to sit better and giving the garment a more professional look.
Adding Button Loops
Button loops are a great alternative to buttonholes, especially if you're working with delicate or lightweight fabrics. To add a button loop, cut a small piece of ribbon or fabric and fold it in half. Sew the folded end of the loop onto the back of the fabric so that the loop hangs down. Then, sew the button onto the front of the fabric, making sure that it lines up with the loop.
Using Buttonhole Twist
Buttonhole twist is a thicker, stronger thread that is specifically designed for sewing on buttons. It's a great choice for heavier fabrics or buttons that will receive a lot of wear and tear. To use a buttonhole twist, double the thread and knot it at the end. Then, sew the button onto the fabric using a criss-cross pattern, making sure to pull the thread tightly so that the button sits snugly against the fabric.
Adding a Backing Button
If you're sewing buttons onto a loosely woven fabric, such as a knit or sweater, it's a good idea to add a backing button. This involves sewing a second button onto the back of the fabric, directly behind the front button. The two buttons will work together to keep the fabric from stretching or pulling, ensuring that the button stays securely in place.
Conclusion
With the right material and the right buttons you will be able to sew your buttons easily. Make sure to mark your fabric correctly, work slowly and everything will be fine. Don't hesitate to use the advanced techniques mentioned above.
With these tips in mind, you can confidently sew buttons onto any garment and achieve a polished, professional look. So go ahead and practice your newfound button sewing skills – you'll be amazed at the difference it can make!