6 Practical Ways to Reattach a Button Without Sewing

Let’s face it. Not everyone has the time or energy to struggle with a needle and thread, or you might simply not have them available to you at the moment. The good news is that there are several alternative ways to put on a button.

Here are 6 ways to reattach a button without sewing:

1. Use an instant button attacher.
2. Use a twist tie.
3. Use a tic button fastener.
4. Use a paperclip.
5. Use fabric glue.
6. Use clear tape.

Continue reading to learn more about how to reattach a button if you do not have sewing materials on hand or simply do not have the time to do it the old-fashioned way.

1. Use a Twist Tie

A twist tie can provide a quick fix for reattaching a button if your sewing materials are unavailable. You may find twist ties lying around at home, especially if you regularly purchase loaves of bread.

Zanna Roberts Rassi, a fashion editor at a well-known magazine, Marie Claire, has also suggested this method.

Here is how to use the twist-tie method:

1. Take off the material wrapped on the twist tie until it reveals the wire.
2. Insert it through the holes of the buttons while carefully piercing it through the fabric.
3. Twist the ends of the wires to hold the button in place.

In this video, Zanna Roberts Rassi shows how you can use the twist-tie method:

2. Use a Paperclip

A paperclip is fairly accessible since it is something that you most likely have, especially if you are in the office. Using it to reattach a button is a great temporary fix until you get home or if you are still at home but need to step out immediately.

Here is how you can use a paperclip to temporarily keep the button intact.

1. Create a U-shape using the paperclip.
2. Insert both ends through the button’s holes until it goes through the other side of the fabric.
3. Secure the button in place by bending the paperclip towards itself. You may want to cover the tips with a band-aid or tape so it does not poke into your skin.

While this method might get the job done, it is not a long-term solution and should only be used during emergencies. Using a paperclip on a child’s cloth is also not advisable.

3. Use a Button Fastener.

Using a button faster can ensure that your detached button stays in place while you go about your day. After all, these were made for the sole purpose of fixing your button.

An example of a convenient button fastener is a Fast Button Tool available on Amazon. This brand uses a durable material to keep the button from falling. Hence, you will not need to worry about sewing it immediately.

Here are the steps on how to use a Fast Button Tool:

1. Push the other end of the button-like end through the part of the fabric where you want to reattach the button.
2. Insert one hole of the button through the fastener until it aligns with the button-like end.
3. Fasten the button by inserting the end poking out of the fabric back down until it locks. Doing this will secure the button in place.
4. Cut off any excess plastic.

Although convenient, fast button tools aren’t known to be flexible and can easily break once installed. Additionally, you may struggle to insert the ‘needle’ when dealing with heavy fabric. 

However, the fast button tool is a great fix if you won’t be participating in overly physical activities. The button can stay firmly in place for a long time, especially when properly installed. 

4. Use an Instant Button Attacher

Using an instant button attacher can be very convenient, especially when you are in a rush. This device provides a quick and easy way to remedy the problem in seconds.

Aside from convenience, another great thing about using this method is that you can hold off on sewing the button back on since the attacher is durable and can last for a considerable amount of time as opposed to the usual thread.

Here are the steps on how you can quickly attach your fallen button using an instant button attacher:

1. Insert the attachers in the slot found on the gun.
2. Hold the button on top of the fabric to keep it in place.
3. Puncture the needle in the middle of the button and through the fabric.
4. Pull the trigger of the gun.

Take a look at this video from Fashion First Aid’s YouTube channel to see a demo on how to use the device:

If you do not know which one to get, check out this list of some of the top instant button attachers in the market:

• Singer 01931 Button Magic (Click to see on Amazon): This instant button attacher is made by one of, if not the most popular sewing machine companies in the world, Singer. It usually comes with 70 attachers and 8 extra buttons and can be used on various types of buttons.
• Buttoneer Button Fastening System: This device provides a clean finish once you attach the buttons since the fastener is barely visible. It is ergonomically designed, easy to use, and has a built-in thimble to keep your finger safe.
• Attaché 2.0: Another great option is this brand from Fashion First Aid. This device comes with 100 black and 100 clear attachers. Bear in mind that this will not work on thicker fabrics.

5. Use Fabric Glue

Using fabric glue to reattach a button is a great alternative on lazy days. It can keep the button in place for a decent amount of time, especially if you use the right one.

Simply apply an ample amount of fabric glue to the button and place it on the part where you want to reattach it. However, this method is not the best choice if you do not have any minutes to spare.

Here is a list of some of the best fabric glue that you can use:

• Tear Mender Fabric Adhesive (Amazon Link): This brand is a great option if you are looking for a top-quality fabric glue. It is considerably durable and waterproof once it dries down.
• Roxanne Glue Baste It: Try using this fabric glue if you are looking for a temporary fix to get you through the day. The button will stay in place for as long as you need it to and can easily come off once you decide that you want to sew it.
• Beacon Fabri-Tac Permanent Adhesive: If you have no plans of sewing your button anytime soon but want it to stay put, this brand is a great choice. It dries faster than the others and will not soak or stain your garment.

6. Use Clear Tape

While most methods mentioned in this article can provide a prolonged solution, using clear tape is meant to be a makeshift if you do not have any options available. Despite this, it still works.

The only step you need to follow to ensure that your button doesn’t fall off for the day is to use a strong, clear tape. Here are some suitable choices:

• Scotch Essentials Wardrobe Tape (Amazon Link): This clear tape is a fantastic option since it is meant to be used on fabric. 
• Dapper Dots Double-Sided Tape: This brand is perfect if you want a cleaner look since it is already rounded, and perfect for any button.

Final Thoughts

If one of your buttons suddenly falls off, try using the methods mentioned. Knowing these alternatives and procedures can surely save you the hassle of sitting down and sewing your buttons back on when you are short on time.

Keeping at least one of the items in your possession can save you time and effort since losing buttons is a common occurrence.

For more, don’t miss 5 Creative Ways To Sew Without a Needle.