George Boyle
Sewing buttons onto a wedding dress is a useful skill to have, especially since buttons often fall off. Wedding dresses often feature satin-covered buttons, which can be sewn on at home or by a professional dressmaker. Sewing buttons onto a wedding dress is also a traditional task performed by someone special to the bride, who has the opportunity to share a moment with the bride before the wedding. Sewing buttons can be done in five simple steps: choosing the button and thread, threading the needle, tying a knot, positioning the button, and finally, sewing the button onto the fabric.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of buttons | 40 |
| Button type | Pearl, satin-covered |
| Button placement | Back of the dress |
| Sewing technique | Hand stitching |
| Thread type | Double-threaded |
| Thread color | Matching the garment |
| Needle type | Basic, slim sewing needle |
| Needle number | 2 |
| Stitch type | Four-hole button stitch |
| Stitch length | 12"-24" |
| Knot type | Square knot |
| Reinforcement | Wrapping thread around shank |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing buttons for your wedding dress
Type of Buttons
The type of buttons you choose can vary depending on your preferences and the overall style of your dress. Some popular options include pearl buttons, which can be found in either half dome or completely round shapes, adding a touch of elegance to the gown. You can also opt for fabric-covered buttons, such as satin, which can complement the fabric of your dress. Consider the colour and texture of the buttons to ensure they blend seamlessly with the dress or provide a contrasting accent, depending on your desired look.
Size and Spacing
The size of the buttons will depend on the style and proportions of your dress. Smaller buttons can create a delicate and subtle look, while larger buttons can make a bold statement. Consider the spacing between the buttons as well; evenly spaced buttons create a polished appearance, while varying the spacing can add visual interest and uniqueness to the design.
Functionality
Traditionally, buttons on a wedding dress are not just decorative but also functional. The bride is dressed by someone special to her, who buttons up the gown while sharing a moment of reflection and support. This tradition adds sentimentality to the task of buttoning the dress. However, some brides may opt for non-functional buttons placed over a zipper for aesthetic purposes.
Overall Style and Silhouette
Consider the overall style and silhouette you wish to achieve with your wedding dress. Buttons can be used to enhance the design, whether it's a skin-tight bodice that hugs your curves or a button-down dress with a flare at the bottom to balance out a fitted top. The placement of the buttons can also vary, from a row down the back to long sleeves or alongside a thigh-high slit, creating unique stylizations.
Practical Considerations
While the aesthetic aspects are important, don't forget the practical considerations. Ensure that the buttons you choose are secure and comfortable. Opt for button loop tape with elastic loops to provide extra comfort and ease for the person buttoning the dress. Additionally, consider the time it will take to button the dress, especially if it has numerous buttons, and practice beforehand to ensure a smooth process on your wedding day.
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Preparing your needle and thread
Firstly, select a basic sewing needle for your project. A slim needle is generally recommended as it can easily pass through the button's holes without causing any damage. If you have a button with a metal shank, you will need a needle with a small eye, as the shank is thin and requires a smaller stitch.
For the thread, it is essential to choose one that matches the colour of the wedding dress and any existing thread used on other buttons. You will need approximately 12 inches of thread to sew on each button. If you prefer a stronger and easier-to-knot option, you can double the thread. In this case, you will need 24 inches of thread, with equal lengths on both sides of the needle.
Before you begin sewing, thread the needle by pulling the thread through the eye of the needle. Leave a long tail of thread, whether you are using a single or double thread. This long tail will be useful when tying a knot.
Now, you are ready to tie a knot at the end of your thread. One method is to wrap the thread around your finger, roll it between your fingers, and pull it tight. If you are using a double thread, remember to tie the ends together. This knot will secure the button in place.
By following these steps, you will have prepared your needle and thread, ready to sew buttons onto the wedding dress securely and neatly.
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Positioning the buttons
Positioning buttons on a wedding dress is a crucial step in ensuring the garment's overall look and functionality. Here are some detailed instructions for positioning the buttons:
Plan the Button Placement
Before you start sewing, decide on the placement of the buttons. Consider the style of the dress and the desired look. Traditional wedding dresses often feature buttons down the back, adding beauty and symbolism. You may also choose to position buttons on the front, shoulders, or sleeves of the dress, depending on the design.
Mark the Buttonholes
Identify the buttonholes on the wedding dress. If the buttonholes are already constructed, ensure they are sturdy and properly aligned. If you are creating new buttonholes, carefully mark their positions. Consider the spacing between each buttonhole to achieve a consistent and aesthetically pleasing arrangement.
Line Up the Buttons
Place the buttons on the fabric, aligning them with the buttonholes and other buttons on the garment. This step ensures that the buttons are positioned correctly and evenly spaced. Use a straight pin beneath each button to temporarily hold it in place. Check that the buttons do not overlap or gap with the fabric, ensuring a seamless and secure fit.
Attach Button Loop Tape
If the wedding dress has a centre back opening, consider adding button loop tape to one side. This tape provides elastic loops that offer comfort and ease for the person buttoning the dress. The tape also ensures that the bride's skin is discreetly covered without exposing any skin at the back.
Consider the Button Type
The type of button you choose will impact its positioning. For instance, if using buttons with metal shanks, you would sew them on similarly to standard buttons, but with smaller stitches due to the thin shank. Alternatively, if using buttons without a shank, you may need to create a thread shank for secure attachment.
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Sewing techniques
Sewing buttons on a wedding dress is a straightforward process that can be done in a few simple steps. Firstly, you will need to gather the necessary materials: a needle or two, thread, and buttons. It is recommended to use a basic sewing needle that is slim and a thread that matches the colour of the garment. You will need approximately 12" of thread for the entire process, but if you double your thread to make it stronger and easier to knot, then use 24".
Next, you will need to thread the needle by pulling the thread through the needle so that there is an equal length of thread on both sides. After that, tie a knot at the end of the thread by wrapping the thread around your finger, rolling it between your fingers, and pulling it tight. If you are using double thread, tie the ends together and leave a long tail of thread.
Now it is time to position the button on the fabric. Line up the button with the other buttons on the garment and check the buttonhole to ensure it aligns properly. Place a straight pin beneath the button to keep it in place while you stitch.
The sewing process can now begin. Push the threaded needle up through the fabric and through one hole in the button. Pull the thread all the way through until the knot is snug against the underside of the fabric. Use your fingertip to hold the button in place as you turn the needle and push it back down through the hole opposite the one you came up from. Tug the thread tight, and you should now have a single line of thread across the button, connecting the two holes. Repeat this process for each set of holes on the button, making three passes for each set of holes. On your last repetition, bring the needle back up through the fabric but not through the button.
To finish, wrap the thread around the thread between the button and the fabric several times to reinforce the shank. Push the needle back down through the fabric and make three or four stitches to secure the thread. Tie off this thread and cut off any excess.
And that's it! You have now successfully sewn a button onto a wedding dress. Repeat these steps for each button, and you will have a beautiful row of buttons adorning the dress.
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Buttoning traditions
Wedding dresses with buttons are a beautiful tradition, but they can be a source of stress for the bride on the big day. Buttons can be a challenge, especially in a nervous atmosphere, and a room full of excited people.
A wedding dress with buttons down the back is a well-known tradition, and these buttons are not just decorative but also have a special meaning. The bride is not supposed to button up her own dress. Instead, this task is traditionally performed by someone close to her. This is a special moment for the bride and her loved one to share, reflect, and support each other before the wedding. It is also a practical way to ensure the bride's dress is securely fastened.
The person buttoning the bride's dress may need some extra time, as it can be a fiddly task, especially with small buttons and loops. A crochet hook is a handy tool to help with this process, as it can easily grab the elastic loops and pull them over the buttons.
Buttons for wedding dresses can be made of pearl or covered in satin, and they are often sewn on by hand. It is important to match the buttons to the dress, especially if the dress is not a bright white. Sewing buttons on a wedding dress is a careful and detailed process, and it is recommended to have a professional do it.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need a basic sewing needle, thread, and buttons. Try to use a thread that matches the colour of the dress. If you don't have the supplies, you can ask the front desk at your hotel for an emergency sewing kit.
Tie a knot at the end of the thread and position the button on the fabric. Push the needle from the back to the front through the first button hole. Push the needle up from the underside of the garment and through one of the holes on the button. Pull the thread all the way through until the knot is snug against the underside of the fabric. Turn the needle around and push it back down through the hole opposite the one you came up from. Repeat this process for six passes, three for each set of holes on the button.
Sewing buttons on a wedding dress is no different from sewing buttons on any other garment. However, it is important to note that buttons on the back of a wedding dress have a tradition associated with them. The bride cannot button herself up and the task is performed by someone special to the bride.
