I am seeking some help/ ideas. I have an old bought cardigan (double knitting) that has no fastenings.

If you have some knit ribbing you could try out a button hole on it as a test.

What I would probably do if it was mine would be to use Kam snaps with something behind for strength then stitch a pretty button on top. One with the holes out far enough so you could stitch it down and not see the snap.

I've had success doing this..decorative buttonholes ITH. The grosgrain ribbon is necessary for backing (baste in place), hoop tear away, baste or pin sweater to stabilizer and cover buttonhole area w/washaway (vilene, etc- the clear. Use 1 or 2 layers and choose a fairly simple design. It has worked for me. My sweaters are all stored now or I would post pix. If your knit is very bulky,you might consider decorative shape of leather and simply stitching the hole outline- then slitting. I was thinking of another alternative...the ribbon front AND back, and buttonholes thru that. Good luck

I have used button holes ITH on my embroidery machine... My digitizing software includes many, and I have digitized my own when needed... I have not tried them on a knitted sweater though....

Hi there try using frog attachments { like what is used on some Chinese garments} they fasten through a toggle . No need for button holes just sew them on . They were used on duffle coats a long time ago . Hope you can understand what i am trying to say .
Cheers
Hilda

1 comment

by graceandham 12 Jun 2020

A lovely look.

I think it depends on the type of knitting. If it is a bulky knit (unlike tshirt knit) like I see most knitting yarn is, I don't think it would work. If there is the possibility of the knitting unraveling when you cut the buttonhole open, I wouldn't do it either. You might try talking to someone who does machine knitting, or find a knitting group online too.

1 comment

by graceandham 12 Jun 2020

Think of the cardigans you have had in your life. Weren't the buttonholes secured in place partly by a grosgrain ribbon at the underneath? Usually match the ribbon to the main color in sweater.

No help at all but good luck and I look forwards to seeing what answers you get

1 comment

by airyfairy 12 Jun 2020

Think I might see if I can buy large press studs.