Overview
Buttonhole stitches are an essential component of many items of clothing and craft projects, and it is a skill that any sewing enthusiast should be familiar with. There are some techniques for performing this stitch on a sewing machine but care must be taken when doing so, as if the stitch is not done correctly, the end result can be weak and unsightly. This article will look at how to perform the buttonhole stitch on a sewing machine and discuss some tips on how to ensure a neat and tidy finish.
Understanding the Technique
The buttonhole stitch is created by hiking the thread over a length of fabric and then looping back on itself to secure the thread. The buttonhole stitch is similar to the backstitch but it is done with a longer stitch length in order to create the continuous loops that look like a ladder. It is important to practice the technique slowly before attempting the buttonhole stitch on your machine, as it can be tricky to get right.
Using the Buttonhole Foot
Most sewing machines come equipped with a buttonhole foot that can make the process much easier. The buttonhole foot will hold the fabric in place while you work and will reduce the number of mistakes that you make. When using the buttonhole foot, set the stitch length on your machine to the longest possible setting. Next, place the fabric under the foot, with the edge of the fabric aligned with the guide on the foot, and start your stitch. As you move forward, you should push the fabric backwards, so that it remains aligned with the foot and the stitch is even.
Stitching in One Direction
When stitching, it is important to always work in one direction. This will help to keep your stitching even and ensure that the buttonhole stitch is secure. Some machines will have a needle stop function that can be used to stop the needle to the left or the right of the fabric. This will allow you to move the fabric and place it in the right position, without having to worry about the needle moving in the wrong direction.
Securing the End of the Stitch
Once you have finished stitching the buttonhole, the end of the stitch must be secured. To do this, reverse the direction of the machine for a few stitches, then cut the thread and tie a knot. Be sure to pause the machine before you tie the knot, as this will ensure that the thread is secure and the knot is not pulled through the buttonhole stitch.
Other Tips and Tricks
When sewing garments, it is important that the buttonholes are all evenly spaced and the right size. To avoid any mistakes with sizing, try tracing the buttonholes onto the fabric with tailor’s chalk before you begin. Additionally, be sure to use a reinforcing stitch when the buttonhole is complete. This will help to ensure that the buttonhole is secure and will keep it looking neat and tidy.
Finishing Touches
Adding a lining to the buttonhole can help to make the finish of the garment look much more professional. If you are working with thicker fabric, it may also be beneficial to start the buttonhole stitch with a backstitch. A backstitch is a type of reverse stitching that prevents the fabric from fraying and enhances the overall strength of the stitch.
Care and Maintenance of the Buttonhole Stitch
It is important to inspect the buttonhole stitch regularly after completing it, as the fabric can sometimes pull away from the thread and cause the buttonhole to become loose. Additionally, the buttonhole should be tested regularly to ensure that it is still secure and none of the threads have become loose. If any of the threads are found to be loose, they should be replaced as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
Adjusting the Machine Settings
The tension of the thread is an important factor when creating a buttonhole stitch. Too much tension can cause the thread to become too loose and cause the buttonhole to become distorted and unsightly. If the tension of the thread is too low, the stitch may not be secure enough and can cause the buttonhole to come undone. It is important to adjust the machine settings to ensure that the stitch is placed correctly and the tension is correct for the particular project that you are working on.
Choosing the Right Thread
The type of thread that you choose for your buttonhole stitch will also affect the end result. It is important to select a thread that is strong enough for the project but not too heavy that it can cause the fabric to stretch and distort the shape of the stitch. Additionally, it is also important to select a thread that is the same color as the fabric, as this will ensure that the stitch blends in and looks professional.
Practice Makes Perfect
As with any skill, practice is key when it comes to learning how to do a buttonhole stitch on a sewing machine. So even if your first attempt is not perfect, keep practicing and eventually you will produce a neat and tidy buttonhole stitch that you can be proud of.
