Everything About Self Covered Buttons
A Practical Guide for Sewists
Buttons may seem like a small finishing detail, but they play an important role in both the function and the overall feel of a garment. Over the years, I have come to see button choice as a design decision rather than an afterthought. Among all options, self covered buttons remain one of my favourite ways to create garments that feel cohesive, thoughtful, and intentional.
In this article, I want to share everything you need to know about self covered buttons, how they compare to metal and plastic buttons, and how I use each type across my own designs.
What are self covered buttons?
Self covered buttons are buttons wrapped in the same fabric as the garment itself. Instead of standing out, they blend in, allowing the fabric, shape, and construction to take centre stage.
They are usually made using a button covering kit, which includes a shell and a back piece, either flat or with a shank. The fabric is stretched over the shell and secured when the back is pressed into place.
I often reach for self covered buttons when I want a garment to feel soft, harmonious, and visually calm.
Why choose self covered buttons?
The main reason I use self covered buttons is continuity. Because they are made from the same fabric, they feel like a natural extension of the garment rather than an added element.
They work especially well for:
- romantic or minimalist designs
- garments where texture plays an important role
- projects where ready-made buttons feel too strong or distracting
Self covered buttons are also a beautiful way to use small fabric offcuts, keeping every part of a project connected.
Fabric considerations
Fabric choice has a big impact on the final result. Medium-weight woven fabrics tend to work best, as they wrap smoothly and hold their shape.
Very thick fabrics can create bulky buttons that are difficult to fasten, while very lightweight fabrics may wrinkle or lose structure. Textured fabrics such as corduroy or wool can work beautifully, but they often require testing first.
Pressing the fabric lightly and paying attention to grain direction helps achieve a cleaner finish.
How I use self covered buttons in my designs
The Maeva Coat is a perfect example of how self covered buttons can support a design. This coat is made from sherpa bonded to corduroy. After separating the corduroy layer from the sherpa, I used it to create self covered corduroy buttons. This allowed the buttons to match the outer fabric perfectly while keeping them slim enough to function well. In this case, self covered buttons reinforce the soft, cohesive look of the coat without competing with its texture.
Self covered buttons vs metal and plastic buttons
Choosing the right button depends on fabric, function, and the mood of the garment.
Self covered buttons create a seamless and understated finish. They are ideal when the design calls for softness and continuity, but they can show wear over time since the fabric surface is exposed.
Metal buttons are durable and visually strong. They often become a design feature and work best on garments that benefit from contrast or structure, as seen on parts of the Juliette Dress.
Plastic buttons are lightweight, practical, and durable. They are especially suitable for garments that will be worn often and washed regularly. In the Elodie Coat, which is made from wool, I chose plastic buttons. Wool already has a strong visual presence, and plastic buttons offered durability and simplicity while allowing the focus to remain on the coat’s silhouette and construction.
Durability and care
Because self covered buttons are made from fabric, they are best suited for garments that are not subjected to heavy friction or frequent washing. Coats, jackets, and occasion pieces tend to be ideal candidates.
Metal and plastic buttons generally offer greater durability for everyday wear, which is why they can be a better choice for highly functional garments.
When to choose each type
- self covered buttons when harmony, softness, and continuity are key
- metal buttons when contrast or decoration is part of the design
- plastic buttons when practicality and durability matter most
There is no single correct option. Each choice supports a different intention.
A small detail with a lasting impact
Buttons may be small, but they influence how a garment looks, feels, and wears over time. Taking the time to choose the right type, or to create self covered buttons from your fabric, adds depth and intention to a sewing project.
For me, these details are what make handmade garments feel complete. They reflect care, craftsmanship, and the quiet satisfaction of making something thoughtfully, from start to finish.
Happy sewing,
Karolina
