Sewing a button on a coat might seem like a small task, but it can make a significant difference in maintaining the quality and appearance of your garment. Whether you're dealing with a loose button, replacing a lost one, or adding decorative buttons for a fresh look, knowing how to sew different types of buttons on your coat is a valuable skill. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to sew a button on a coat by hand, including tips for coats with linings, shank buttons, and even heavy glass buttons. With a little patience and the right technique, you can ensure your coat looks as good as new.
How to Sew a Button on a Coat by Hand
Sewing a button on a coat by hand is a simple yet essential skill, especially when you want to preserve the longevity and appearance of your coat. Whether it's a regular button or a decorative one, the process is straightforward. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you sew a button on a coat by hand.
Materials Needed:
- Needle
- Thread (preferably strong, matching the color of the coat)
- Scissors
- Thimble (optional for pushing the needle through thick fabric)
- A spare button (if the original is lost or damaged)
Steps to Sew a Button by Hand:
1. Prepare the Button and Thread: Choose a thread that matches your coat. Cut a length of thread, about 18-24 inches, and thread your needle. Tie a knot at the end of the thread.
2. Position the Button: Place the button on the coat where it needs to be sewn. If you're replacing a button, use the existing thread marks as a guide. Ensure the button is centered and positioned correctly.
3. Start Sewing: Push the needle from the inside of the coat out to the front, pulling the thread through until the knot catches. Insert the needle through one of the buttonholes, and then down through the opposite hole, securing the button in place.
4. Create a Shank (Optional): If your coat is thick, create a shank by leaving a small gap between the button and the coat. Wrap the thread around the stitches under the button a few times before tying off. This gives the button room to move and makes it easier to fasten.
5. Secure the Button: After sewing through the buttonholes several times, finish by pushing the needle to the back of the fabric. Tie a knot close to the fabric, and then push the needle through a few more layers before cutting the thread. This ensures the knot is secure.
How to Sew a Button on a Coat with Lining
Sewing a button on a coat with a lining requires a bit more care to avoid damaging the inner fabric or leaving unsightly stitches on the lining. Here’s how to do it neatly:
Steps to Sew a Button on a Coat with Lining:
1. Access the Button Area*: If possible, open the lining seam near the button area to avoid sewing through the lining itself. This will allow you to sew the button without affecting the inner fabric.
2. Sew the Button: Follow the same steps as mentioned earlier for sewing a button by hand. Be mindful of the lining; make sure your stitches don’t go through to the lining, especially if it’s a contrasting color.
3. Close the Lining: Once the button is securely attached, close the seam you opened in the lining. Use a ladder stitch or a blind stitch to make the seam invisible.
How to Sew a Shank Button on a Coat
Shank buttons are a bit different from regular buttons because they have a loop (shank) at the back instead of holes on the face. Here’s how to sew them on a coat:
Steps to Sew a Shank Button:
1. Prepare the Button and Thread: Use strong thread, as shank buttons are often heavier. Thread your needle and tie a knot at the end.
2. Position the Button: Place the shank button on the coat, ensuring it aligns with the buttonhole.
3. Sew the Shank: Push the needle from the inside of the coat through to the shank loop. Sew through the shank several times, pulling the thread tight to ensure the button is securely fastened.
4. Secure the Button: Once the button is attached, push the needle back through to the inside of the coat and tie a knot. For extra security, sew through the shank loop a few more times before tying off the thread.
How to Sew Heavy Glass Buttons on a Coat
Heavy glass buttons require additional support to stay securely attached to your coat. Here’s how to sew them properly:
Steps to Sew Heavy Glass Buttons:
1. Reinforce the Area: Before sewing the button, reinforce the area on the coat where the button will be attached. You can do this by sewing a small piece of fabric, like a button backing, on the inside of the coat. This helps distribute the weight of the button.
2. Use a Strong Thread: Heavy glass buttons require a strong, durable thread. Double-thread your needle for added strength, and tie a knot at the end.
3. Attach the Button: Place the glass button in position and sew through the buttonholes or shank multiple times. Make sure the button is tightly secured, as heavy buttons can easily come loose if not properly attached.
4. Add a Backing Button: For extra security, sew a small backing button on the inside of the coat directly behind the glass button. This helps distribute the pressure and prevents the button from pulling through the fabric.
5. Secure the Stitches: After attaching the button, tie off the thread securely. For added durability, sew through the buttonholes a few more times and finish with a strong knot.
By following these steps, you can confidently sew any type of button on your coat, ensuring it stays in place and looks great for years to come. Whether you’re dealing with regular buttons, shank buttons, or heavy glass buttons, these techniques will help you achieve a professional finish.