How to replace a button

The importance of a button is usually not noticed until it's missing. 

 If you have followed Mendingmayhem over at Instagram you know I sometimes like a lazy solution. Like this dress I found second hand and it was missing a button an had a tiny hole next to the pocket.

I just put a butterfly 🦋 brooch there instead. Well the next one fell off too, so I thought I should  fix it properly today.

Of course I didn't have a matching button, so I made it visible by using one that stands out instead.

It made me think about all the items I have found second hand that just is missing a button. So I think I actually need to show you how to replace a button as it seems a lot of people don't know how to.

To replace a button you will need 

sewing thread 

A sewing needle 

Scissors 

Replacement button 

Find the right place for your button, usually you can see tiny holes there the button have been. 

Sew a couple of stitches in the same place to secure the end of your thread.

I have just learned that some people make an x stitch underneath the button, and that I probably have been doing it wrong all my life 😂 but guess what my buttons still stay in place. I checked with some of the sewing experts I know Tricia and   Maria  they said they never learned the x stitch either. 

It would make good sense if it's a large coat button or similar. 

My button had 4 holes, some has just 2 but it's the same approach. Sew a few times up and down through the holes and the fabric 

A flat button needs a shank so you shouldn't tie your sewing thread way to tight. 

Wrap the thread 5-6 times around the bottom of the button, around the threads you sew it to the fabric 

Then  stick the needle through the wrapped threads and sew a couple of stitches to secure the ends. Cut your thread and you are done.

             Shank buttons 

Secure the thread by sewing a couple of stitches in the same place. 

 Sew through the shank and then through the fabric. Back up through the fabric and again through the shank. Repeat a few times 

Secure the end of the thread by sewing a few stitches in the same place. 

Your button should be safely replaced.