Sewing on a button takes about five minutes, and doing it properly means it won't fall off again next week. The secret most people skip is the thread shank.
You will need
- The button (or a close match)
- A hand needle
- Thread matching the other buttons
- Scissors
- A toothpick or pin (for spacing)
For coats and heavy fabric, use button thread or doubled all-purpose thread.
Sewing a flat (2- or 4-hole) button
- Mark the spot. Line up the button with its buttonhole and mark the center with chalk or a pin.
- Anchor the thread. Knot a doubled thread and take two small stitches on the right side where the button will sit — the button will hide them.
- Add a spacer. Lay a toothpick across the top of the button. Sew over it so the stitches have slack.
- Stitch through the holes. Go up through one hole and down through the opposite one, 6–8 times. For four holes, make two parallel bars or an X.
- Make the shank. Remove the toothpick, lift the button and wrap the thread tightly around the stitches under it 5–6 times.
- Tie off. Push the needle to the back, take a few tiny stitches through the threads there and knot. Trim.
Tap each step to tick it off as you go.
Sewing a shank button
Shank buttons have a loop on the back, so you don't need to build a thread shank. Sew through the loop 6–8 times, keeping the loop aligned with the buttonhole direction, then tie off on the back.
Why buttons fall off
- No shank — tight stitches get sawed through by the buttonhole edge.
- Weak thread — use doubled thread or button thread.
- Thin fabric — add a small square of interfacing or a tiny "backer" button inside for coats.
A dab of clear nail polish on the thread at the back of the button stops it from unravelling.
Building your skills? Practice the seven basic hand stitches next.
Frequently asked questions
How many times should you sew through a button?
Six to eight passes through each pair of holes is enough for most garments; go a little more on coats and bags.
What thread should I use to sew on a button?
Doubled all-purpose polyester thread works for most clothing. Use button or upholstery thread for coats and heavy fabrics.
What is a thread shank?
A short column of thread wrapped under the button that lifts it off the fabric, giving the buttonhole room to sit underneath without straining the stitches.
