How to Sew on a Button With a Sewing Machine

Some may find it surprising that sewing machines can sew on buttons, but it really is easy and straightforward – all it requires is a zig-zag stitch and the appropriate foot.

Take a look at your machine’s manual to discover which stitch width works best with your buttons, as well as make sure the feed dogs are adjusted.

Thread the Needle

For sewing on buttons with a sewing machine, threading your needle first is required. Although threading might seem intimidating at first, it’s actually rather straightforward! All it requires is finding the appropriate thread and technique.

Thread should complement the fabric’s color; for an unexpected pop of color you could try choosing a contrasting thread. When stitching, either use one thread strand at a time or double up your thread for additional strength.

Once your thread is prepared, place the button under the presser foot and use a hand crank (turn by hand) to move your machine so that its needle drops into its first hole of the button. Continue this process for each set of two holes on it.

Your machine’s feed dogs must also be deactivated before starting to sew; these metal bars connect each stitch and pull fabric back as you sew, creating what are known as feed dogs. Please refer to your machine manual for guidance in deactivating these feed dogs – make sure this step is completed before starting!

Insert the Needle Through the Fabric

Although this might seem obvious, you’d be amazed to find out just how many people get it wrong when sewing on buttons. Make sure that there is plenty of thread for this task by doubling over and tying two knots at both ends; this will act as a reinforced anchor and prevent loosening during stress.

Next, take your needle and push it from behind fabric into where you would like your button centered, creating a small “X”. This acts as an anchor to secure it in its position and keep your button in its proper place.

As part of this process, a special foot called a “button sew-on” foot can also help. Although they vary depending on which brand of machine you own, all feature a U-shaped base covered with rubberized material to hold buttons securely while making them easy to see while sewing. After placing your button where desired, position fabric and button underneath button foot then lower presser foot for sew-on stitching.

Bring the Needle Up Through the Fabric

For sewing buttons on, zigzag stitch is typically the preferred stitch choice on standard machines, though depending on your machine model there may be an exclusive button-sew on foot with an opening so you can see through and ensure the button is centered properly.

If you don’t already own one, try using an open toe satin stitch foot instead. When sewing with this foot be sure to tuck fabric under it so as to prevent rocking back and forth during sewing.

Remember when sewing on buttons that the first step should be disabling the feed dogs – these metal bars appear with each stitch, helping to push fabric forward. Most sewing machines offer an option whereby you can temporarily lower or raise them – do look out for this lever as this will help stop your needle from bumping into buttons accidentally!

Bring the Needle Down Through the Fabric

Even without a button foot, your machine can still sew buttons using its stitch capabilities (I used wide zig-zag stitches). To do so, measure the distance between holes on your button before raising and sliding the presser foot lever to deactivate them both, before setting your sewing machine for free zig-zag stitch or button stitch and setting stitch width equal to what was measured during step two.

Now lower the presser foot lever and sew across the button with back-and-forth stitching strokes. Once completed, trim threads close to where your machine tied the knot.

This technique can save money and time when buying or repairing buttons, and even be used to sew on snaps, curtain rings or pant hooks! Don’t be intimidated by the thought of sewing on buttons – it’s actually quite straightforward and will boost your sewing confidence and self-reliance! Knowing how to sew on buttons will make you feel more capable in your sewing endeavors!

Insert the Needle Through the Button

Sewing on buttons is one of the most frequently requested services I offer at work, and with the proper techniques it’s really quick and straightforward! To make sure the button stays put for future wear and tear, add a drop of seam sealant onto each thread as this will strengthen them against unravelling after washing or wearing.

Position the button and fabric underneath your presser foot with its side “teeth” over two holes closest to you, testing different stitch widths until one fits through both without hitting the button.

Once satisfied with its position, stab the needle through the button again and pull it all the way through to secure its placement. Repeat this step for each of its other holes on the button.

If you’re using a raised button with an opening in its back, use a matchstick or toothpick as a spacer between it and fabric. Insert the needle through a hole in fabric before passing over spacer (matchstick/toothpick). Repeat these steps on button until needle passes back through fabric/button combination again and back through same hole again on button.