Free Step by Step Directions to Sew Bound Buttonholes

By Debbie Colgrove, About.com Guide

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Basic Pointers for making bound buttonholes

A completed bound buttonhole

Debbie Colgrove, Licensed to About.com

A perfect bound buttonhole is rectangular and no wider then 1/4", unless you are working with fabric that is exceptionally thick or bulky. This would make each side of the inset no wider then 1/8".
If you are making a series of these buttonholes it is best to make each step on each buttonhole before moving on to the next step.
When machine sewing, do not back stitch. It usually results in an unperfect rectangle.
Always use interfacing or underlining on the garment fabric to provide stability.
To practice making bound buttonhole and "get the hang of it", try making larger then normal buttonholes. Practice on scraps until you feel confident.