Free Step by Step Directions to Sew Bound Buttonholes

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.

• Basic Pointers for making bound buttonholes
• Markings For A Bound Buttonhole
• Starting the Buttonhole
• Cutting the Bound Buttonhole
• Turning to the Inside
• Creating the Buttonhole Edges
• Hand Baste The Buttonhole Edges
• Machine Sewing & Lining