Creating a Buttonhole Using a Sewing Machine
Brittany McCrigler and 5 other contributors
Last updated on Feb 20, 2026
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Introduction
Go to step 1 ↓Use this guide to create a buttonhole with your sewing machine. We’re using a Bernina 830, but the process should be similar for all sewing machines with a mechanical buttonhole dial. Since every sewing machine is different, refer to your sewing machine’s owner’s manual for specific information. In this guide we’re using contrasting thread for visibility. When it comes time for your actual project, you’ll want to use thread that matches the color of your fabric.
What you need
Tools
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Select your buttonhole foot. Buttonhole feet can vary in appearance, so check you manual.
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Thread the buttonhole foot by sliding the thread through the diagonal slit into the center hole.
Ask FixBot
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Mark where you would like the top and bottom of the buttonhole to be with tailor's chalk.
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Align the sewing machine at the upper left corner of the buttonhole.
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Set your stitch length dial to nearly zero, this will create a satin stitch. The usual stitch length is around the 2.5.
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Set your button hole dial to one. If you have an electronic sewing machine, refer to your manual.
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Start sewing. Sew to your second line.
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Set your button hole dial to two.
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Sew the bar tack at the bottom of the buttonhole.
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Set your buttonhole dial to three.
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Sew up the second side of your buttonhole, stopping at your top mark.
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Set your buttonhole dial to four.
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Sew the top bar tack at the top of the buttonhole.
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Set your buttonhole dial to five.
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This setting backstitches to hold the thread in place. Sew a few more stitches, which will finish the buttonhole.
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Clip the threads, freeing the fabric from the machine.
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Clip any extra loose threads.
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2 Guide Comments
The same thing happened to me when I first tried this too, Holly.
I discovered that I was over-stitching position 2.
Now, I do a maximum 3 stitches only, before I go on to position 3 and everything works beautifully. I don’t have to turn the fabric around - position 3 stitches in reverse, and I finish off with a couple of stitches in position 2, to top off the button-hole.
I hope this helps!
