One of the most basic skills a child should learn is how to handle a needle and thread. The first lesson is simple – how to sew a button. Sewing is a basic skill which will come in handy when they have clothes to repair, and for many other things!
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Why a Child Needs to Know How to Sew a Button
We live in a disposable society. When we lose a button or tear a seam, we find it easier to just toss the garment and replace it. In today’s world, that can be come expensive.
Teaching your child the basics of sewing can help their clothing last longer. It also teaches them basic skills, and responsibility for taking care of their belongings.
Get Them Started with Sewing
It helps to have a sewing basket on hand. Stock up a small basket with sewing supplies that your child can grab anytime they need to sew a button back in place or replace one.
A basic sewing basket will contain a pair of scissors, package of needles, assorted thread, and a few extra buttons. Some clothing comes with extra buttons. Place these in a small container and put it in their sewing basket. They will then have them handy if they lose one.
Here’s How to Sew a Button
Place your button in as close to the exact place where the other one was, or where the new one is needed. Be sure you line it up with the buttonhole!
Step One
Next – thread your needle, using approximately two to three feet of thread. Match up the two ends and tie a double knot.
Step Two
Now. Holding the button firmly in place with one hand, guide the needle from the underside of the fabric, up through the fabric and into the bottom right hand hole of the button. Pull your thread all the way until the knot is flush with the fabric. Don’t pull too hard, or you will pull the thread and knot all the way out.
Step Three
Still holding the button straight and tight, guide your needle through the top left hand hole of the button. Pull thread tight.
Now, from the underside, push your needle through the fabric and into the bottom left hand hole of the button.
Step Four
Next, push your needle through the top right hole of the button, again pulling tight. Continue this pattern until you have secured the button with three or four rounds of sewing, finishing with the needle on the underneath side of the fabric.
Turn the fabric over and run the needle carefully through the threads you have just sewn, being careful not to run it through the fabric. Pull until a small loop is left.
Run the needle through the loop and pull tightly. Do this twice.
Clip the thread. Flip the fabric over and smile! You have just successfully sewn on a button. Who knows? Next you might just be sewing all your own clothes!
Learning to Sew a Button is Just the Beginning
Once your child has mastered the art of how to sew a button, begin teaching them how to repair seams, adjust hems, and other basic sewing tasks. From there, they can begin sewing their own small projects and making their friends fun gifts.
By creating their own handmade items, they not only learn new skills, but also the benefits of being frugal!
