How to Sew on a Button

Summary: Button-like objects began to appear as early as 2800 BC, but were not properly used to functionally hold clothes closed until 13th or 14th century in Europe. There are different types of buttons that go by the names shank, covered, flat, worked, and mandarin buttons. Shank buttons have a small ring on the back of the button that is used to attach the button to clothing. Covered buttons are buttons that are covered in fabric that have a separate attachment that secures the button to the clothing. Flat buttons are the most common types of buttons that have two or four holes in them through which thread is sewn to attach the button to the clothing. Worked buttons are created by crocheting tight stitches over a form. Mandarin buttons are knobs made of knotted strings that are used as buttons.

Buttons come in all different sizes and shapes as you will see in this series of expert videos. Watch as our expert sews buttons on to men’s jackets, dress shirts and polyester pants. Watch step by step instructions on sewing back-looped buttons or shank buttons. Learn how to sew larger buttons onto terrycloth or how to thread length for snap buttons. Get basic tips on threading a needle and tying off the thread end after sewing on a button in these expert videos.