Unlock the Secret: Mastering How to Sew on Closures Like a Pro!

AvatarByJill Nammar Sewing

If you’re new to the world of sewing, you may have found yourself intimidated by the thought of attaching a closure to your garment. But fear not! With a little bit of practice and the right technique, sewing on a closure can be a breeze. Whether you’re looking to create the perfect finishing touch on a handmade garment or need to replace a broken closure on your favorite jacket, learning how to sew on closures is an essential skill for any sewist. In this article, we’ll cover the basics of sewing on closures and provide tips and tricks for achieving professional-looking results. So grab your fabric and thread, and let’s get started!

Understanding Sew On Closures

Sew on closures are a popular type of fastening used in various sewing projects, such as clothing, accessories, and home decor. They come in different sizes, shapes, and materials and can be attached to fabric using a needle and thread. Sew on closures are commonly used to secure openings, create adjustable sizes, or add decorative elements to garments.

In general, there are two types of sew on closures: buttons and snaps. Buttons are small discs with holes or loops on the back that can be attached to fabric by sewing them through the holes. Snaps consist of two parts that interlock when pressed together: a stud that goes on one side of the fabric and a socket that goes on the other side.

Types of Sew On Closures

Buttons

Buttons are one of the oldest types of sew on closures and can be made from various materials such as plastic, metal, wood, or even fabric-covered. The common shapes for buttons are round, square, or oval; however, they can also come in more intricate designs like flowers or animals.

When using buttons as sew on closures, you have two options for attaching them to fabric: sewing them through buttonholes or creating loops for the buttons to go through. For buttonholes, you will need to use a buttonhole stitch to secure the edges and prevent fraying. Creating loops involves making simple loops with thread or creating loop slits using scissors.

Snaps

Snaps are another popular type of sew on closure that can be used as an alternative to buttons. They offer a seamless look without any visible stitching lines since they sit flush against the fabric when closed. Snaps come in different fastening strengths depending on their intended use.

There are two main types of snaps: pronged snaps and sew-on snaps. Pronged snaps have two parts: the cap with prongs and a socket; they can be attached to fabric by pushing the prongs through and folding them over. Sew-on snaps, on the other hand, require stitching around the edges to attach them securely to fabric.

Hooks and Eyes

Hooks and eyes are another type of sew on closure that is commonly used in dresses, blouses, and skirts. They consist of a hook (also known as an eyelet) and an eye (also called a feeder); the hook goes on one side of the fabric while the eye goes on the other side, interlocking to create a secure closure.

When using hooks and eyes as sew on closures, it’s essential to use appropriate size combinations for best results. If the hook is too small or too big for the eye, it will not close properly, resulting in gaps or discomfort when wearing the garment.

How To Sew On Closures

Gathering Supplies

Before you start sewing on closures, make sure you have all necessary supplies at hand. These include your chosen closure type (button, snap, hook & eye), needle and thread in matching colors, fabric scissors, pins or clips for holding pieces together, and marking tools such as chalk or tailor’s pencil.

It’s also helpful to have a measuring tool like a ruler or tape measure if you need precise placement for your closures. Gathering these supplies beforehand will make the process smoother and ensure that you don’t run into any delays.

Preparing Your Fabric

Before attaching any type of closure to your fabric, you need to prepare it first. If you’re using buttons or snaps with buttonholes or loop slits, you will need to create these openings beforehand using an appropriate tool like a buttonhole punch or sharp scissors.

For hooks and eyes and snap closures, you will need to mark the placement of the fasteners on your fabric using your chosen marking tool. It’s essential to place these markings accurately and evenly on both sides of the fabric to ensure that the closure will be in the correct position when worn.

Attaching Your Closures

When it comes to attaching closures, there are various techniques depending on the type of closure you’re using. For buttons, you need to make sure that they are sewn on securely with strong stitches; you can use a button thread or reinforce your stitches with regular thread for added strength.

For snaps, you will need to stitch around the edges of both parts using a slip stitch or whip stitch; this will keep them securely in place while allowing them to move freely when opened and closed. When attaching hooks and eyes, it’s essential to use small stitches and secure each part separately before sewing them together.

Finishing Touches

After attaching your closures, there are some finishing touches you can add for extra security and a cleaner finish. For example, using fray check or clear nail polish on buttonholes or cut threads will prevent fraying. You can also add a small piece of interfacing behind snaps or hooks and

Understanding Closures in Sewing

In sewing, a closure refers to any type of fastening mechanism used to secure an opening or join two pieces of fabric together. Closures are an essential part of any garment or project and can come in many different forms, such as buttons, zippers, hook and eye closures, and the topic we will be focusing on today: sew on closures.

Sew on closures are commonly used for more delicate fabrics or garments where other types of closures may be too bulky or damaging. They are also a great option for decorative closures, as they can add a touch of elegance and personalization to your sewing projects.

If you are new to sewing or just need a refresher, understanding how to properly sew on a closure is crucial. In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about sew on closures and how to sew them onto your projects flawlessly.

Choosing the Right Sew On Closure

The first step in successfully sewing on a closure is selecting the right one for your project. There are various types of sew on closures available in the market, from buttons and snaps to clasps and hooks. The key is to choose a closure that complements both the fabric and style of your project.

Here are some factors to consider when choosing a sew on closure:

– Fabric type: Certain fabrics may require more delicate or specific closures. For example, silk works best with small buttons or hook and eye closures while thicker fabrics like denim can handle larger buttons.
– Garment design: The design of your garment will also impact your choice of closure. For example, you may want something discreet if it’s going on a piece like a blouse but may opt for something more decorative if it’s for outerwear.
– Personal preference: Lastly, take into account your personal preferences in terms of functionality and aesthetics. Do you want a closure that is easy to open and close? Do you want something that adds a pop of color or texture to your project?

Materials Needed

Once you have selected the perfect sew on closure for your project, it’s time to gather all the necessary materials. Here’s what you’ll need:

– Sewing machine (or needle and thread)
– Sewing scissors
– Hand sewing needle
– Ruler or measuring tape
– Pins
– Marking tool (such as chalk or a fabric marker)
– Interfacing (optional, but recommended for heavier fabrics)

It’s important to note that some closures may come with their own instructions, including specific materials needed and techniques. Make sure to read through these instructions carefully before starting.

Preparing Your Closure

Before attaching your sew on closure, it’s essential to prepare it properly. This step will ensure that the closure is secure and looks polished on your finished project.

If your closure has a shank or loop attached to it, cut off this excess with your sewing scissors. Then, use your ruler and marking tool to make small marks on the fabric where the closure will be attached. This will act as a guide for placement when you start sewing.

If using interfacing, iron a small piece onto the back of each fabric piece where the closures will be sewn on. This step strengthens and stabilizes the fabric, making it easier to sew on closures without causing any damage or distortion.

Sewing On Your Closure

When it comes to actually sewing on your closure, there are various techniques you can use depending on the type of closure you have chosen.

For buttons and snaps, start by selecting a thread color that matches both the button/snaps and fabric. Then, using either a hand sewing needle or your sewing machine (using a buttonhole foot), attach the button/snap to the fabric according to the instructions provided. Make sure to sew the closure on firmly, but not too tightly that it is difficult to open and close.

For closures like clasps and hooks, again, refer to the instructions provided by the manufacturer for exact placement and sewing techniques. Generally, these types of closures are attached in a similar way to buttons, using a needle and thread or your sewing machine.

Finishing Touches

Once your closure is securely attached, you can move on to finishing your garment or project. This may include hemming any remaining edges, adding embellishments or details, and pressing your finished piece.

Make sure to also test out the functionality of your sew on closure before wearing or using the garment. This step will ensure that it is secure and functioning correctly.

The art of sewing closures onto garments may seem intimidating at first, but with practice and following these tips above, you can easily master this essential skill. Remember to choose the right closure for your project, prepare it properly, and sew it on with precision for a professional-looking finish every time. With time and experience, you will become an expert at sewing on closures effortlessly.

Q: What is a closure in sewing?
A: A closure in sewing refers to a fastening or opening mechanism used to secure garments or other textile items.

Q: What types of closures are commonly used in sewing?
A: Some common types of closures in sewing include buttons, zippers, snaps, hooks and eyes, and Velcro.

Q: How do I choose the right closure for my project?
A: When choosing a closure for your project, consider the functionality, aesthetic appeal, and fabric type. For example, a zipper might be more practical for a dress while buttons might be better suited for a shirt.

Q: Can I sew on any type of closure with any type of thread?
A: It is recommended to use a thread that matches the color and weight of your fabric when sewing on closures. However, thicker and stronger threads may be necessary for heavier closures such as metal zippers.

Q: What is the best way to secure my closure before stitching it onto my garment?
A: One common method is to place pins or clips along the edges of the closure to hold it in place before stitching. Alternatively, you can baste the closure onto the fabric using temporary stitches.

Q: How do I sew on a button properly?
A: To sew on a button, begin by threading your needle with double-threaded thread. Then, insert the needle from the back of the fabric through one hole on the button, then back down through another hole. Repeat this several times until the button feels secure before tying off and cutting excess thread.

In conclusion, learning how to sew on a closure is a useful skill that can add a professional touch to any garment or accessory. It requires patience, precision, and practice, but the end result is well worth the effort. By following these steps, you can successfully attach various types of closures such as buttons, zippers, hooks and eyes, snaps, and hook-and-loop fasteners.

It is important to carefully consider the type of closure and fabric you are working with before starting your sewing project. Understanding the different techniques for attaching closures allows for versatility and customization in your designs.

Moreover, it is essential to have basic knowledge of sewing techniques such as hand stitching and using a sewing machine. This will not only ensure a secure attachment of the closure but also prevent any damage to the fabric.

Additionally, attention to detail is crucial when sewing on closures. Double-checking measurements and positioning will help achieve a polished look and avoid any mistakes. It is also important to use high-quality materials and tools when creating closures as they can greatly impact the durability and appearance of your project.

In conclusion, mastering the art of sewing on closures opens up endless possibilities for creating unique and personalized garments or accessories. With practice and attention to detail, anyone can become proficient in this skill. So go ahead

Author Profile

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Jill Nammar
My name is Jill but everyone calls me Jilly. I design original cross stitch patterns inspired by vintage French and flowers. Roses are my muse.
I hope you have a cozy time stitching my patterns. Put the kettle on, relax and create a heartwarming piece of hand-embroidered art. Personalize your home and turn up the soulful charm with soulful stitchery.

My goal is to provide you with pretty patterns that promote peaceful stitching. My wish is for you to discover the gentle beauty of hand-embroidery.My patterns have been featured around the web and in Homespun Magazine and Boston Magazine. I find my bliss in cross stitch.

From 2024, I have embarked on a new venture—writing an informative blog on the “Embroidery and Cross-Stitch” niche. This blog is an extension of my passion, where I share detailed posts and respond to queries related to embroidery and cross-stitching.

The blog covers a wide range of topics from beginner tips, pattern creation, historical insights, and the therapeutic benefits of stitching. My goal is to build a community where enthusiasts can learn, share, and grow in their embroidery skills, ensuring everyone can find their own bliss in cross-stitch just as I did.

Thank you to all my customers and readers who have supported Sew French. Your kind emails, photos of completed patterns, and continual encouragement fuel my dedication to this beautiful craft. Join me in stitching a world of beauty and peace, one pattern at a time.