Hand Sewer how-to

How to Hand-Sew a Hand-Worked Buttonhole

Hand buttonholes mark fine tailoring.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Hand buttonholes mark fine tailoring. In short: mark; overcast; work, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Mark and cut.

  2. Overcast edges.

  3. Work buttonhole stitches.

  4. Keep knots on the edge.

  5. Bar-tack the ends.

  6. Press.

Safety reminders for hand sewers

  • Handle needles carefully
  • Use good lighting
  • Take hand breaks
  • Use ergonomic seating

Slip stitch · Blind hem · Backstitch · Basting · Whipstitch · Thimble: see the full hand sewer glossary.

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