OK, this is one of the more bizarre questions I've put out there: My lovely, fashion fabric-covered buttons arrived today from America (hallelujah!) and it does seem like they will fit the Tailored Suit buttonholes (that's its own vaguely interesting story, to follow).
Here's the thing. The shanks are also covered by fabric - not the fashion fabric, but another similarly coloured one. I have to assume this is the normal way of professionally-finished fabric buttons. I take it I'm to sew them on by stabbing at the fabric till I find the shank? At least that's what this wikipedia post would have me believe.
Is it me or does that seem unnecessarily complicated and likely to make things look messy? Can anyone corroborate if this works? I don't suppose one is meant to snip that button back fabric at the shank to make the shank easier to find?
As y'all know, I have a pathological fear of making anything with buttonholes (the machine ones more than the bound ones) so it's rare that I ever find myself in the position of sewing on a button. How's that for an embarrassing admission. (Please Note: I've got it all going on when it comes to snaps.)
Any feedback would be so welcome!
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I haven't come across this before, but it sounds like a good idea because sometimes the metal or plastic shank can look disappointingly cheap. These sound like a nice couture-y version!
ReplyDeleteCan't wait to see the finished garment!
It's really weird sewing but it does look very nice when finished.
DeleteYes that's the thing to do and don't forget to wax and press your thread. The fashion fabric on the jacket is thick so you may need to add an additional thread shank as well.
ReplyDeleteI did it! And added the extra thread shank by winding the thread around 9 times (I think that's what makes the extra shank, right?).
DeleteRight!
DeleteI believe the fabric back is to protect the fabric under the button from rubbing on the shaft (sounds like I am writing porn), and wearing out the fabric or thinning it. Pictures! I want Pictures!
ReplyDeleteHilarious! Pics of the buttons are up. But I won't show myself wearing this till the skirt is done.
DeleteYeah, you're supposed to stab at the fabric....the good news is, you can see after the first stitch where you are going, then you can just put in your other stitches near that area. It's a little awkward but not terrible.
ReplyDeleteI decide button placement by closing the item then putting a chalk or tailoring pencil through the FAR end of the buttonhole, where the shank would normally rest. This leaves a mark on the fabric where I can then perfectly sew on the button. Not sure if this helps you, but I was very pleased with myself when I figured this out.
It's true. It starts off hard but after a couple of stitches it works alright. I understand exactly what you're saying but only because I heard Gertie say something similar, like, 5 times. It's not intuitive so good on you for coming up with it!
Deleteyour are absolutely right.
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Your say right about Fabric Covered Buttons. thank for share your ideas on your blog.
ReplyDeleteGirls Designer Clothes