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Seam Gauge

How to Sew on a Button with a Thread Shank

 

33 Steps--That got your attention.

Actually, it may be that many as have tried to include all the tips and tricks I've accumulated.  And want this to be the be-all, end-all button sewing tutorial.

Sewing on a button isn't difficult but it seems to be the 'bugaboo' of all sewing tasks.  Have you ever babied a dangling button just to avoid having to sew it back on?  Well, here's the scoop on sewing on buttons that will always look good and last.

Just remember the following Secret and Tip

 

The Number One Secret is the Thread Shank.

That's the extra thread between the button and the fabric that provides room for the correct seating of the buttonhole under the button.  A thread shank is absolutely necessary for thick fabrics but is even advantageous for shirts and blouses.  The shank also is a strong attachment as it is firmly wrapped with thread providing strength through more thread and more abrasion resistance.  Abrading of the thread is the #1 cause of missing buttons; the buttonhole moves back and forth under the button as the garment is worn, buttoned and unbuttoned.

No. 1 Tip for Sewing on Buttons

Do not use knots--at beginning or end of stitching.  Typical place for knots is on the wrong side; it's just going to rub off during wear, and pretty soon the button is loose/lost.

Knots under the button get in the way of the shank, plus they too rub off due to abrasion from the button hole.


 

Tools

• 3"-4"scissors with sharp points; easy to get in tight spaces and nip threads

• Beeswax; this comes in a holder that separates threads for complete coating.  Wax strengthens the thread, prevents knotting, eases needle threading.  You can also use it to improve the glide on dresser drawers.

• Seam Gauge with Button Spacer

• Sharps Large Eye Hand Sewing Needles.  Sharps are an all purpose needle with a round eye for easy threading.  The larger the size number the thinner the needle shaft.  For thick or stiff fabrics, a size from 1-4 means a thicker shaft that won't bend/break when pulled thru the fabric.  An assortment of sizes in the 5-10 range will provide needles for most hand sewing needs.

• Thread--all purpose polyester thread has high breakage and abrasion resistance--the button hole edges will rub on the thread.  Use a double strand of thread so less stitches are needed to secure button; 3-5 stitches through the holes is sufficient, any more and it just looks messy.

• Fray Check/Seam Sealant secures thread ends and fabric fraying.  It is washable and dry cleanable.



Button Sewing by Hand

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



 

Button Sewing by Machine

Only buttons with holes can be sewn by machine; buttons with integrated shanks must be sewn by hand.

Bernina and other brands of sewing machines have specific presser feet for sewing on buttons.  It even has a pin to sew over thus making a thread shank.                                            I don't have one so make do with the #20 Bernina open toe presser foot.

 

Bernina #18 Button Sewing Foot

Bernina #20 Presser Foot

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 






Button Sewing with an Integrated Shank

Buttons with integrated shanks are more common on large buttons suitable for coats.  They still need a thread shank which provides strength and abrasion resistance.  The tightly wrapped shank is stronger than just several thread loops through the button shank.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

And, this is absolutely Everything you need to know to successfully sew on buttons that will stay sewn!

 

Related:

Hemline Sewing and Knitting Seam Gauge Part II

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Hemline Sewing Knitting and Seam Gauge Part II

Hemline Sewing Knitting and Seam Gauge Part II

Hemline Sewing Knitting and Seam Gauge AKA  Seam Gauge, Point Turner & Button Spacer It's here; ordered this Seam Gauge through Amazon, shipped from UK, on June 19th and it arrived on June 27th.  After Amazon said it would arrive, earliest, July 15th.  Praise be! Now why would I order a simple sewing tool from across the Pond?  Because I …

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