How to Sew a Button Hole

I have  had requests to do some posts about a few basic sewing techniques.  The first technique that will greatly widen your sewing repertoire is the simple button hole.  I was reluctant to learn this step in the sewing process so I would just stick to patterns that didn’t require buttons.  But when I realized how fast and easy it is to sew a button hole, I couldn’t believe I put it off for so long!  And with the modern sewing machine, a button hole is a breeze!  I have prepared a short 2 and a 1/2 minute video to show you how to sew a button hole with a simple sewing machine.  You probably have a different kind of sewing machine, but that’s OK.   Most button hole functions are very similar.  If something doesn’t look right, consult you very handy sewing machine manual.  The only other tool you will need to complete your button hole is a seam ripper.  I have a very simple one that cost  $ .99 at the fabric store.  Watch the video to see how to use your seam ripper to cut the middle of the button hole (which is what actually makes it a hole )!   The only other piece of advice I have about button holes is to measure your buttons first!  Most button packaging will say “5/8 inch” or “1/2inch”  and tell you exactly how long to make your button hole.  Pretty simple!  And if you are using a pattern, it will have a button hole guide that you transfer to your fabric with a fabric marker or pencil, telling you just where to put the button holes.  If you are doing multiple button holes (on a shirt for instance) do the first one and then make sure the button goes through well.  Adjust as needed.  So just measure, mark and sew!  Let me know how your button holes go!

Here is the link to the video…  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gWq2X3rhgbk

Tagged as: button hole, easy sewing techniques