Gathering tools and materials
Before you start sewing your buttonholes, it is important to gather all the tools and materials you need. You will need a Janome sewing machine, scissors, needle and thread, a marking pencil, an iron, cloth tape measure, tailor’s chalk and a rotary cutter. It is also important to have some extra fabric pieces ready so that you can practice making buttonholes before sewing them into the finished garment.
Firstly, it is important to prepare your Janome sewing machine. Make sure it is threaded properly, the presser foot is properly secured and the tension is correct. You can consult your manual to ensure your machine is working correctly.
Preparing the fabric
Once your Janome sewing machine is ready, you can begin to prepare your fabric. You will need to measure the size of your buttonhole, so use a cloth tape measure and tailor’s chalk to mark the area around the buttonhole. It is important to mark the area accurately, as this will be the template for the buttonhole.
Once the area is marked, use a rotary cutter to cut along the markings. Make sure to cut on the inside of the marking, as this will ensure that the buttonhole is the correct size. Make sure to cut slowly and evenly so that the edges are neat and even.
The next step is to create the buttonhole. Set your Janome sewing machine to the “tab for buttonholes setting”, and secure the cloth on the presser foot. You should begin sewing at the upper corner of the pattern, travelling along the marked area. As you sew, make sure to keep the fabric flat, so that the stitches are even. If you make a mistake, you can use the reverse stitch to correct the error.
Once you have Gored the marked area, you will need to use the scissors to cut open the buttonhole. Make sure to cut down the middle to ensure the buttonhole is the right size. Finally, press the buttonhole with an iron, to shape and flatten it.
Adding a Button
Once the buttonhole is finished, you can add the button. Place the button on the opposite side of the fabric, to the buttonhole. Then, use a needle and thread to sew the button to the fabric, making sure to keep the thread taut. Finally, secure the thread with a knot to ensure the button is firmly fastened in place.
Creating Professional Looking Buttonholes
Creating professional-looking buttonholes is a skill that takes time and practice to master. There are several tips that can help you achieve perfect buttonholes every time. Firstly, it is important to use the correct type of fabric for the buttonholes. Different fabrics will require different stitching techniques.
Additionally, it is important to use sharp scissors and to cut very slowly, so that the edges of the buttonhole are even. When it comes to cutting, it is important to use short but firm strokes. Finally, it is important to press the buttonhole properly, as this will ensure that the button is firmly secured and the shape of the buttonhole is even.
Adding a Different Design to Your Buttonholes
Once you have mastered the basics of making buttonholes on your Janome sewing machine, you may want to experiment with different designs. To add a more interesting touch to the buttonhole, you can use a contrasting colour of thread or add some decorative stitching around the edges. Additionally, you could add some beads to your buttonhole. This will give it a more unique and eye-catching look.
Practical Tips on Making Buttonholes
Making buttonholes can be a tricky process, so here are some practical tips to help you achieve great results. Firstly, it is important to select the correct stitch type on your Janome sewing machine. Additionally, use a sharp needle, as this will help you to achieve even and neat stitches. Make sure to baste the fabric before sewing the buttonhole, as this will help the fabric to stay in place. When you start stitching, pause every few stitches to adjust the fabric, to stop it from slipping or bunching up. Finally, use pins to secure the cloth in place before starting the buttonhole.
Attaching Buttons as an Alternative to Buttonholes
Sometimes it can be quicker and easier to attach buttons without making buttonholes. This method is less time-consuming and can make the garment look more professional. To attach a button without making a buttonhole, make sure to select the right type of button and thread. Thread the needle and attach the button in the desired position. To secure it, use the needle to loop the thread around the back of the button and stitch the thread in place.
Attaching Multiple Buttons on a Single Buttonhole
If you want to attach multiple buttons to a single buttonhole, it is important to measure the distance between the buttons correctly. You can use a tailor’s ruler to measure the exact distance and make a note of it. Once the measurements are taken, sew the buttons in the desired locations. To secure the buttons, use a needle to loop the thread around the back of the buttons and stitch them in place. Make sure to keep the thread taut, so that the buttons are securely fastened in place.
Choosing the Right Thread For Your Buttonholes
When selecting thread for your buttonholes, it is important to consider the type of fabric you are using and the colour of the thread. Choose thread that is strong enough to secure the buttonholes and match the colour of the fabric. You should also consider the type of stitch you want to create. Some fabrics may require specific type of stitch, so make sure to check the instructions for your fabric. Additionally, consider the shape of the buttonhole. For long and curved buttonholes, opt for a heavier thread as it will provide extra support for the fabric.
