How to sew a button onto a hand-knitted garment (knitting or crochet)

When we finish knitting a jacket, cardigan, or any garment with a closure, it’s time to attach the buttons. It may seem like a minor detail, but doing it properly ensures that the button is sturdy, securely fastened, and has a clean, professional finish.

In this article, I’ll explain how to sew a button onto a knitted or crocheted garment step by step, using the same yarn as the project or a suitable thread.

Materials you need

• Your knitted garment (finished and blocked).
• The button you want to attach.
• A piece of the same yarn used for the project (separated into strands) or strong sewing thread.
• Sewing needle (a fine one, as a yarn needle is usually too thick to pass through the buttonholes).
• Scissors.

Video tutorial: how to sew a button onto a knitted garment by hand

If you prefer to follow the process visually, here is the step-by-step video tutorial where I show you exactly how to do it:

Step-by-step guide to sewing a button onto a knitted garment by hand

1. Prepare the thread

If you’re using the same yarn as the garment, separate the strands and use only two strands together. If you’re using sewing thread, use two strands together as well. Thread the sewing needle with both strands.

2. Secure the thread to the garment

Make a stitch where you want to place the button. Tie a double or triple knot to secure it, then trim the excess from the short end close to the surface.

3. Start sewing on the button

Pass the needle from bottom to top through one of the buttonholes, then from top to bottom through the opposite hole. Adjust the tension: it should be firm, but not too tight, so the fabric doesn’t become distorted.

👉 Each time you cross the button, also make a stitch in the garment for extra reinforcement.

4. If the button has four holes

Repeat the same process through the other two holes, always securing the button with stitches in the fabric.

Make as many passes as needed depending on the thickness of the thread and the size of the button, until it is secure.

5. Create the thread shank

Once the button has been sewn on, wrap the thread several times around the threads connecting the button to the fabric. This creates a small shank that allows movement and reinforces the attachment.

The number of wraps will depend on the thickness of the thread and the button, but the shank should be snug and secure.

6. Finish off the thread

Make two stitches by passing the needle underneath the button and through the shank you just created: one from right to left and another from top to bottom.

Cut the thread as close to the button as possible so the end stays hidden.

Final tips

• Choose suitable needles and buttons: the smaller the buttonhole, the finer the thread should be.
• If the garment is thick, leave a longer thread shank so the button doesn’t sit too close to the fabric.
• Before sewing on all the buttons, test one to check the placement and tension.

✅ And that’s it! You now have a securely and neatly sewn button on your knitted or crocheted garment.