Learning how to sew on a button is a basic life skill every DIYer should have.
Time Less than 1 hour
ComplexityBeginner
Cost$5 - $10
Introduction
It's time to revive your favorite garment! Our step-by-step guide on how to sew a button will have you mending like a pro in no time.
While losing buttons is common, losing one from your favorite shirt demands immediate action to fix it. Many methods are available for sewing a button onto a shirt, but this method has never failed me.
It is a very inexpensive fix. All you need is a travel sewing kit and a pair of sharp scissors.
Before getting started, I recommend working in a space with plenty of light so you can see exactly what you’re doing. As you are replacing one button, be sure to check all the other buttons on the shirt to ensure no others require tightening. If there are some wobbly buttons, now is the best time to secure them before they are lost.
Tools Required
- Scissors
- Two needles
Materials Required
- Button
- Thread
Watch How To Sew a Button
Project step-by-step (8)
Step 1
Double-thread a needle
Measure out 24 inches of thread and thread the needle. Take both ends of the thread and knot them together near the ends of the thread, creating a loop.
Step 2
Create an “X” guide
With the double-threaded needle, sew an “X” on the location where you will be securing the button to the shirt. Use the distance between the button holes as a rough length for the legs of the “X.” Start at the back side of the shirt and sew through to the front so that the knot at the end of the loop is on the inside of the garment.
Step 3
Lay extra needle on button
Place the button on the “X” you just created, then lay the extra sewing needle on top of it. This creates extra thread under the button to allow enough space for it to work properly when fastening to the shirt.
Step 4
Sew on button
Repeat the process of sewing the “X.” This time, though, sew through the button holes, over the needle lying on top of the button, and back through the button and garment. Pull the thread taught after each pass to avoid loose threads. Repeat the process of sewing through the button holes until the thread buildup looks similar to the other buttons from the factory.
Step 5
Tighten the button
When the thread buildup looks similar to the other buttons, remove the extra sewing needle sitting on top of the button and pull the thread tight. Wrap the needle around the extra thread underneath the button a few times to strengthen the connection.
Step 6
Knot the thread
Sew the threaded needle through the shirt to the backside. Create a loop by pulling the needle under the threads holding the button in place, and insert the needle through the loop to make a knot. Repeat this a few times.
Step 7
Cut off extra thread
After the knots have been created, cut off the excess thread with your scissors.
Step 8
FAQ
What is the best thread for sewing on buttons?
For increased strength, sew buttons using heavy-duty threads, such as button and buttonhole thread, or core-spun thread.
Does it matter if you use single or double thread to sew a button?
Double thread is recommended for increased durability and strength. Using a double thread creates a sturdier hold for the button, reducing the risk of it falling loose or falling off again.
Should the button thread match the button or the fabric?
Most people prefer to match the thread to the fabric because this gives a seamless appearance. Â An exception to this would be for decorative purposes. You can use a contrasting color to draw attention to the button.
