Buttonholes

Have you seen design sets with embroidered buttonholes and wondered how easy they are to use? If you are not sure, practice with scrap fabric. Mark where you want the buttonhole to stitch, then figure out how to get it there. The design should come with placement stitches, but if not, make a note of where the first stitch is located within the design, then measure from there to the center of the design. On your button placket, mark the center of each buttonhole, then add a second mark for where the first stitch will go. In many formats, the first stitch is the center of the design, so you would only need one mark..

Try using different thread colors against the same fabric as your blouse. You may prefer a tone-on-tone look or perhaps bolder colors. You may be surprised at how your choice of thread color changes the look of the buttonhole. If the buttonhole is too big for your buttons, add a couple of hand stitches across the top and bottom of the opening, and then cut just between those stitches.

Embroidered buttonholes are also useful for drawstring bags. and so much more interesting than plain ones! Cutesy buttonholes are sure to delight children, and the elegant ones will turn your blouse into something that will make you feel special every time you wear it.

Next issue: traveling laptop

from Mary Jane Allen of Perfect Little Stitches

The new puppies are here
at Heart N Sole.

This "in the hoop"
embroidery pattern is
made for 5x7 hoops.