Something every newbie sewist should know is how to add a button to a garment. There are so many kinds of buttons with different appearances and purposes, so a great way to start practicing is with a simple four hole button. Once you’ve mastered this hand sewing technique, two hole buttons will be twice as easy, and shank buttons will be a breeze!

If you’re just starting your sewing journey, you’re in the right place. In terms of fashion trends, buttons aren’t going anywhere, but they do fall off sometimes. Knowing how to sew them on is a must-have skill to master — whether you want to fix a wobbly one, jazz up an outfit, or keep your clothes from flying open! In this Deep Dive Demo, we’ll guide you through each step, so grab your needle, thread, and button — it’s time to sew.

How to Sew on a Button with Four Holes

Step 1: Mark the Button Placement

First things first, mark the exact spot where your button will go. Using a non-permanent marking tool, draw a dot or crosshairs where you want the center of your button to sit. It’s best to mark this on the side of the fabric where the button will be sewn, as marking on the opposite side or inside of the garment can make sewing the button more challenging.

Pan Tip! Always test your marking tool on a scrap piece of fabric. To learn more about fabric marking tools and which ones we prefer, read this.

Step 2: Prepare Your Needle

Take your hand sewing needle and double-thread it. To do this, thread one end through the needle, then pull until both ends are even. Double-threading uses a bit more thread, but it strengthens your stitches and ensures your button stays put.

Pan Tip! Start with a thread long enough to finish sewing your button without running out. A handy rule of thumb is to measure the thread from your fingertips to your elbow!

Step 3: Anchor the Thread

With your needle and thread ready, sew three small stitches right next to the marking. End with the needle underneath the fabric. These stitches will anchor your thread and hold your button in place so it won’t unravel.

Pan Tip! Clip the tails of your thread to keep things tidy.

Step 4: Sew Through One Side of the Button Holes

Now for the best part — center the button over your marking. First, sew through the top and bottom left holes at least three times, ending with the needle underneath the fabric. This secures one side of your button.

Pan Tip! For functional buttons, sewing through all layers of fabric is crucial because buttons endure a lot of stress, and this added reinforcement helps prevent the fabric from tearing over time. While decorative buttons can sometimes be sewn to a single layer, stitching through multiple layers when possible is always a safer bet!

Step 5: Sew the Other Side

Next, move to the top and bottom right holes by bringing your needle up through the fabric beneath the button. This avoids creating a visible horizontal stitch across the front. Sew at least three stitches through both holes on the right side. End with the needle behind the button underneath the fabric.

Step 6: Finish and Secure

To finish up, flip your fabric over and sew three small anchor stitches behind the button to secure the thread. Clip the thread, and there you have it — your button is securely attached!

Bonus Tip: Create an “X” Pattern

For a different look, try creating an X shape in the center of your button. Simply repeat the steps above but sew diagonally across opposite holes instead to form a stylish crisscross pattern on top!

Button Up Your Sewing Skills

Now you’re ready to give this button sewing technique a try! If you followed along and it worked — congratulations on mastering the art of attaching a four hole button! Need a bit of help? Reach out to our team of sewing experts through our public Discord server — we’re available Monday through Friday from 9 am to 6 pm PST.

Stitching for more? This is just the beginning of what you can achieve with a few sewing basics under your belt. At First Stop Cosplay, our easy sewing patterns for beginners come with meticulously detailed instructions, photos, and video guides to help you learn a variety of sewing techniques while making your sewing journey as smooth and stress-free as possible.

For more helpful beginner sewing tutorials, tips, and inspiration, explore our FSCO Sewing Academy. You can also connect with our friendly sewing community on social media and our Discord server, where beginner and expert sewists alike share advice and inspiration. Don’t forget to check out our original and licensed cosplay patterns and essential tools to help bring your sewing projects to life.

Happy sewing, and see you in the next Deep Dive Demo!

Sewn by Ashley K.

Written by Karina M.