How to End Button Sewing?

To end button sewing, secure the thread with a series of tight knots on the underside of the fabric and then carefully trim any excess thread, ensuring the button is firmly attached and will withstand regular use.

Essential Steps to Secure Your Button

Properly securing the thread is crucial for the longevity and durability of a sewn-on button. A poorly finished button will quickly come loose, requiring re-stitching. The goal is to create a robust anchor that prevents the thread from unraveling.

Step-by-Step Guide to Knotting

The final stitches are where you secure your button permanently. This process involves creating a series of knots to lock the thread in place.

1. Form the Initial Knot: After making your final pass through the button and fabric, bring your needle to the underside of the fabric. Slide the needle underneath one or two existing stitches on the back of the fabric, but do not pull the thread all the way through yet.
2. Create a Loop: This action will form a small loop of thread close to the fabric.
3. Pass Through the Loop: Thread your needle through this loop.
4. Pull Tight: Gently pull the thread through the loop, making sure to pull the thread firmly to tighten the knot against the fabric. This creates a secure, single knot.
5. Repeat for Security: For optimal security, repeat steps 1-4 a few times. Each repetition adds another layer of security, creating a strong, multi-knotted anchor that is less likely to unravel. Aim for three to five knots directly on top of each other.
6. Conceal the Knot: Ensure the knot is as close to the fabric as possible and ideally concealed within the existing stitches on the underside, preventing irritation or visibility.

Trimming Excess Thread

Once your knots are firmly secured, the final step is to remove any remaining thread.

• Cut Close to the Knot: Use sharp scissors to carefully cut off any excess thread, leaving a tail of only about 1/8 inch or less. Cutting too close might weaken the knot, while leaving too much can look untidy.
• Inspect: Give the button a gentle tug to ensure it's firmly attached and the knots are secure.

Why a Secure Finish Matters

A strong finish isn't just about preventing the button from falling off; it contributes to the overall quality and durability of the garment.

• Durability: Secure knots prevent the thread from unraveling, ensuring the button stays attached through repeated wear and washing.
• Professional Appearance: A neat, well-secured finish adds to the craftsmanship of the item, reflecting attention to detail.
• Functionality: A properly sewn button, especially one with a thread shank, allows for easy buttoning and unbuttoning without straining the fabric.

Advanced Tips for a Professional Finish

For an even more robust and professional result, consider these additional techniques:

Creating a Thread Shank

For buttons with holes (2-hole or 4-hole), creating a small thread shank can significantly improve functionality. A shank provides space between the button and the fabric, allowing the fabric of the buttonhole to sit neatly beneath the button without pulling.

1. Insert a Spacer: As you sew, place a small spacer (like a spare needle, toothpick, or pin) on top of the button, under your stitching.
2. Sew Over the Spacer: Stitch over the spacer, keeping your stitches loose enough to accommodate it.
3. Form the Shank: Once stitching is complete and before knotting, remove the spacer. Bring the needle up under the button but through the layers of thread stitches directly beneath the button.
4. Wrap the Thread: Wrap the thread tightly around the bundled stitches several times (typically 5-6 times) between the button and the fabric. This forms the "shank."
5. Secure: Bring the needle back to the underside of the fabric and proceed with the standard knotting process.

Reinforcing the Stitch

• Backstitching: For added reinforcement, you can make a small backstitch at the very beginning of your sewing on the underside of the fabric before you even bring the thread up through the button.
• Extra Passes: For heavy-use buttons (like on coats or jeans), consider adding a few extra passes through the fabric and button before creating your final knots.

Using Fabric Glue (Optional)

For extremely high-stress buttons or very fine fabrics where knots might slip, a tiny dot of clear fabric glue on the finished knot (on the underside) can provide extra security. Allow it to dry completely before use.

Comparing Secure vs. Insecure Button Finishing