
Sewing a button onto a sports coat is a simple task that can be done by anyone. Shank buttons are ideal for sports coats as they are designed to accommodate thicker fabric, ensuring the button doesn't pull out. To sew a shank button onto a sports coat, you will need a needle, thread, scissors, and a shank button with a raised area on the back. You may also want to use a small, clear, or matching button on the inside of the coat for added stability. First, thread your needle with double thickness thread and make a knot at the end. Then, mark where you want the button placed on the fabric. Next, make a few stitches through the top layer, leaving a small loop. Slip the shank through the loop and continue stitching through the holes, securing the button in place. Finally, tie a knot on the wrong side and trim any excess thread.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Button type | Shank button |
Button features | Raised area on the back |
Button material | Metal or plastic |
Needle type | Basic, slim |
Thread type | Button and carpet thread, quilting thread, all-purpose thread |
Thread length | 9-12 inches (single), 18-24 inches (double) |
Thread colour | Matching the garment colour |
Anchor stitches | 2-3 |
Backing button | Small, clear or matching the inside of the garment |
Stitching method | Through the shank and fabric |
Stitching number | 6 |
Knotting method | Loop method |
What You'll Learn
Choosing the right thread and needle
When sewing shank buttons on a sport coat, it is important to choose the right thread and needle. The needle you use will depend on the type of thread you choose. For a thicker thread, you will need a needle with a bigger eye. John James needles are considered the best on the market and can be purchased online.
For the thread, you will need something strong. Button and carpet thread is the strongest type available and is especially helpful if there is a metal shank on the button. Quilting thread or waxed thread are also good options. Ideally, you will want a thread that matches the thread used on the garment. If you don't have an exact colour match, use a light-coloured thread for light garments and a dark-coloured thread for dark ones.
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Preparing the thread
You will need a needle and thread to sew on a shank button. It is recommended to use button and carpet thread for added robustness, although all-purpose thread will work just fine. If you are sewing a heavy coat, you may want to use a heavy-duty thread. You will also need scissors for cutting the thread.
Cut a piece of thread about 18 to 24 inches long. Thread the needle with equal lengths of thread, ensuring the thread tension is correct for the needle size and fabric. Double the thread over to make it stronger and tie a knot at the end to make it stronger. If you are using single thread, pass the thread through the needle and tie a couple of simple overhand knots to secure it.
If you have doubled your thread, create a knot by wrapping the thread around your forefinger several times, then roll the loops into a tight bundle with your thumb. Slip the bundle off your finger, grip the loops with one hand, and tug the long end of the thread tight with the other hand. This will pull the loose bundle into a tight knot.
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Locating the button placement
Mark the Button Placement:
Use a water-soluble marker or fabric pencil to indicate the button placement on your sport coat. Consider the button size and ensure it complements the coat. The marker helps you accurately place the button and provides a guide for your stitches.
Assess the Fabric Thickness:
The thickness of the fabric is an important factor when sewing shank buttons. If you're working with a thick fabric, like a heavy wool coat, you'll need a deeper shank to ensure the button sits properly in the buttonhole. Adjust the shank depth accordingly to accommodate the fabric thickness.
Stabilize the Button:
To enhance stability and prevent the button from shifting or becoming loose, consider using an extra button. Place a small, clear, or matching button on the inside of the garment, directly behind the main button. This extra layer reinforces the button attachment and distributes the stress of buttoning and unbuttoning.
Choose the Right Thread:
Select a strong thread type, such as button and carpet thread or quilting thread, to ensure durability. Match the thread colour to the colour of your sport coat for a seamless look. You can also use a thread that contrasts with the coat colour if you want the thread to stand out as a design element.
Prepare the Needle:
Choose an appropriate needle size that suits the button and fabric. A regular hand sewing needle will usually suffice, but for heavier threads or thicker fabrics, you may need a larger needle with a bigger eye to accommodate the thread. Ensure the needle is sharp and free from any burrs for easy sewing.
By carefully considering these steps, you can accurately locate the button placement and ensure a secure and aesthetically pleasing result when sewing shank buttons on your sport coat.
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Sewing the button
Sewing a button is a simple task that can be done by anyone and can save you the cost of a tailor. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to sew a shank button on a sports coat:
Firstly, gather your materials. You will need a needle, thread, scissors, and a shank button. The thread should be strong and durable, such as button and carpet thread, and ideally matched to the colour of the coat fabric. You will also need a small implement to act as a spacer, such as a toothpick, matchstick, or a second needle.
Next, cut your thread to the desired length, around 18-24 inches, and thread your needle so that you have a double thickness of thread. Tie a knot at the end to secure it. If you are using a self-threading needle, simply thread it without tying a knot.
Now, locate where you will be sewing the button onto the coat. You can use a water-soluble marker or fabric pencil to mark the spot. Insert the needle from the back of the fabric to the front, bringing it up through the coat. Make two or three stitches in the fabric without the button to anchor the thread, keeping the stitches under where the button will be placed.
Place the shank button over the anchor stitches and begin to sew it down. Make sure to use your spacer, placing it over the centre of the button, and ensure that your thread crosses over the spacer each time you make a stitch. Repeat this process four to six times.
Remove the spacer and gently pull the button so that the extra thread goes behind it. Bring the needle to the front of the coat, without going through the button, and wrap the thread around the stitches numerous times to create a shank. This will ensure the button has some wiggle room and is not flush against the fabric.
Finally, take the needle back through to the inside of the coat and tie a knot to secure the thread. Trim any excess thread and your button is now securely sewn onto your sports coat!
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Securing the button with finishing touches
Now that you've sewn your shank button onto your sports coat, it's time to finish up with some final touches to ensure it's secure.
First, you'll want to tie a knot on the wrong side of the fabric, i.e., the underside of the button. Pull the thread tight and double-check to make sure it's secure. You may even want to knot it again for added security. Then, use a pair of scissors to trim any excess thread, ensuring that it's cut close to the knot.
For a professional touch, consider using blanket stitches to reinforce the button's attachment. This will help hold the button securely and prevent the button from rubbing against the threads, which can cause the button to fall off over time.
Additionally, you can add an extra button on the inside of the garment for added stability. This is especially useful if the button will get a lot of use, as it will protect the fabric fibres from wearing and possible tearing.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your shank button is securely attached to your sports coat, giving it a neat and professional finish.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need a needle, thread, scissors, and a shank button with a raised area on the back. You may also want a small clear or matching button for added stability, and a spacer such as a toothpick or matchstick.
Thread your needle with double thickness thread and make a knot at the end. Mark where you want the button placed on the fabric using a water-soluble marker.
Pass the needle through the top layer of fabric, then slip the shank through the loop. Continue stitching through the holes, securing the button in place.
Once the button is firmly attached, tie a knot on the wrong side and trim any excess thread. For a professional touch, use blanket stitches to reinforce the button’s attachment.