Buttonhole Presser Foot: A Step-by-Step Guide

Adding buttonholes to your projects doesn’t have to be intimidating! With the right tools and techniques, you can create professional-looking buttonholes effortlessly. One of the most helpful tools for this task is the buttonhole presser foot. Whether you're sewing on woven fabrics, stretch fabrics, or thick materials, this guide will walk you through setting up your machine, prepping your fabric, and using your buttonhole presser foot like a pro. 

Setting Up Your Machine for a Buttonhole Presser Foot

1. Attach the Buttonhole Foot – Remove your standard presser foot and attach the buttonhole foot according to your sewing machine’s instructions. Many machines use a snap-on system, while some require a screw-on attachment.

2. Select the Buttonhole Stitch – Most computerized machines have an automatic buttonhole setting. If your machine has a manual (mechanical machine) there will be a four-step buttonhole setting, be sure to follow the steps indicated in your machine's guide.

3. Use the Button Sizer (If Available) – Some buttonhole feet have a built-in button sizer at the back. Insert your button into the slot, and the machine will automatically create a buttonhole of the correct length.

4. Lower the Buttonhole Lever – If your machine has a buttonhole lever, pull it down before starting. This tells the machine when to reverse and complete the buttonhole sequence.

   

Prepping Your Fabric

Before you start stitching, fabric preparation is key to achieving clean, professional buttonholes.

• Stabilize the Fabric – Use interfacing or stabilizer behind the fabric, especially on lightweight or stretch fabrics. This prevents distortion and ensures a smooth buttonhole.

• Mark the Buttonhole Placement – Use a fabric marking pen, chalk, or tailor’s pencil to draw your buttonhole location and length.

• Secure the Fabric – If working with slippery or stretchy materials, baste the area or use a stabilizer to keep the fabric from shifting.

How to Use a Buttonhole Presser Foot

1. Position the Fabric – Align your marked buttonhole area under the presser foot. If your foot has a guide, position the fabric accordingly.

2. Lower the Presser Foot – Make sure it is properly positioned so the machine can start stitching at the correct spot.

3. Begin Sewing – Press the foot pedal or start button, and let the machine do the work! If using a four-step buttonhole, manually switch to the next step when indicated.

4. Check & Finish – Once sewn, carefully cut the center of the buttonhole using a seam ripper or small scissors. There are some kits available that can help open the buttonhole to give you a professional finish too. 

   

Tips for Different Fabrics

• Woven Fabrics – Medium-weight woven fabrics like cotton and linen work well with standard buttonhole settings. Always test on scrap fabric to adjust tension and stitch settings.

• Stretch Fabrics – For knit fabrics, use a ballpoint needle and add a stabilizer or interfacing to prevent stretching and puckering. Consider using a stretch buttonhole setting if available.

• Thick Fabrics – For heavy fabrics like denim or wool, lengthen the stitch slightly and use a sharp needle. A piece of tissue paper underneath can help feed the fabric smoothly through the machine.

Mastering the buttonhole presser foot takes practice, but with some practice you can make beautiful buttonholes in no time! Be sure to check out my Amazon Storefront for fun sewing supplies! Note: I make a small commission when you purchase something through my link. Thank you for the support :)