How to sew a button in 6
straightforward steps

Knowing how to sew on a button is a simple, yet valuable skill that can rescue your favourite garments and knits. All our shirts and cardigans come with a matching spare button and a handy repair kit, so you can use this essential technique time and time again to keep your favourite clothes for longer.

Sewing on a button may seem like a small act, but it's a big step towards embracing the principles of slow fashion. By nurturing and caring for your clothes you extend their life, reduce waste and contribute to a more sustainable future. Plus, you'll discover the joy that comes from mastering a valuable skill. So dust off your sewing kit and let’s get started.

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Sewing Buttons - Top Tips

● If your button is especially thick or your fabric is heavy, you can reinforce it by wrapping the thread around the button's shank (the small raised area on the underside of the button) a few times before continuing to sew through the holes.

● If you're sewing a button on a coat or something that will endure a lot of use, consider using dental floss or a thicker thread for added strength. You can always double up the thread for a stronger fix, too. Use a thimble to protect your fingers when pushing the needle through tough fabrics.

● f your button is very loose or the fabric is thick, give the button a little platform or small square of fabric on the underside. Known as a thread shank, it raises the button so it stands away from the material, allowing thicker fabrics to fit around the button without straining.

● Always check the care label of your clothing to ensure you're using the correct thread and needle type. If the thread easily slips out of the needle, you can always tie a knot by the eyelet with the tail end to secure it. You will be cutting this bit off at the end anyway.

● If you are sewing on a 4 hole button, match how you stitch to the other buttons on the garment.

Knowing how to sew a button doesn’t have to be just about fixing your item, it’s also an opportunity to get creative. Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can use your new skill to customise an old faithful and breathe new life into a favourite jumper or shirt.

Customise An Old Favourite

If you have a best-loved WoolOvers wool or cashmere cardigan, the good news is that with the right care, you can wear it year after year. But sometimes we all crave something new. Rather than swap out the garment, why not swap the buttons to give it a new lease of life? Add vintage buttons to modern pieces, pick different colours and styles, or use different coloured threads. If you’re feeling creative add buttons to the shoulders or wrists for a smart instant update. You can do this seasonally and make a fresh fashion statement every few months.