How to Sew on a Shank Button

Have you ever wondered how to sew on a shank button so that it sits securely and doesn't wobble?

Unlike a traditional flat button, a shank button has a small loop on the back instead of holes through the front. This creates space between the button and the fabric, making it particularly useful for jackets, coats, blazers and garments made with heavier fabrics.

After more than 26 years in the fabric and sewing business, I'm delighted to share one of my favourite techniques for attaching a shank button securely and professionally.

What You'll Need

• A shank button

• Hand-sewing needle

• Matching thread

• Scissors

• Your garment or fabric

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare Your Needle

Thread your needle with a double strand of thread and tie a secure knot at the end.

Step 2 — Position Your Button

Bring the needle through the fabric where the button will be attached.

Here's an important detail: the distance between your stitches should correspond to the width of the button's shank. This helps prevent the button from wobbling once attached.

Step 3 — Attach the Button

Pass your needle through the opening in the shank on the back of the button.

Position the shank so that it aligns with the direction of the buttonhole, this way the buttonhole will stay closed around the shank and not push the button hole open.

Step 4 — Secure the Button

Pass the needle through the shank and fabric three times, keeping your stitches neat and secure without pulling too tightly.

Step 5 — Make Your First Two Locking Knots

Wrap the thread around the base of the button. Pass your needle through the thread loop and gently pull to create a secure knot.

Repeat once more.

Step 6 — Add Your Third Knot

Pass the needle beneath the stitching between the button and the fabric. Bring it through another thread loop and tighten.

You now have three securing knots to help keep your button firmly attached.

Step 7 — Finish Neatly

Pass your needle through the fabric to conceal the thread end, then carefully trim away the excess thread.

Darrell's Sewing Tip

Always choose a thread colour that closely matches your fabric. A carefully selected thread creates a cleaner, more professional finish.

And remember, a beautifully sewn button is one of those small details that makes a handmade garment truly special.

Discover Our Button Collection

At Darrell Thomas Textiles, we believe that the perfect button can transform a garment from ordinary to extraordinary.

Explore our collection of beautiful buttons and sewing notions at www.darrellthomas.com.

Happy sewing!

Darrell Thomas
Darrell Thomas Textiles — Fabrics • Buttons • Notions