How to Knit a Buttonhole in Garter Stitch?

We have said this multiple times; learning how to knit a buttonhole in garter stitch is not that easy. In fact, learning to make any type of buttonhole will not be easy if you are not following the right steps. We have struggled a lot when trying to learn how to make different types of knitted button bands.

Now when it comes to learning this process, instead of opting for a domestic buttonhole machine, we have decided to take things into our hands. We did a ton of research on the process and finally figured out an easy and simple process.

And we are going to describe the process to you. So, whenever you think of making a buttonhole in a garter stitch, there will be nothing to worry about.

Steps to Follow to Make Buttonhole In a Garter Stitch

Just like any sewing how-to guide that we have gone through, we will keep things simple here. And even though hand-sewn buttonholes vs buttonhole machine is a pretty heated topic, we have decided to follow the route of the manual process here. The steps are:

Step 1: Start with the Right Spot

Like the process of learning to knit a buttonhole in moss stitch, you need to first work on selecting the right spot. We would recommend starting on RS and knit exactly in the place where the pattern seems right. Work your yarn on the front, and after that, take the first stitch and slip it purlwise.

Step 2: Move to the Back

After slipping the stitch purlwise, move the yearn on the back. Then start wrapping the slipped stitch by leaving the year hanging on the back. Unlike the guide of knitting a buttonhole band, the yarn needs to be left hanging till the very middle of the process.

Step 3: Slip the First Stitch Purlwise and Repeat

After moving to the back, you need to slip the first stitch purlwise. Repeat the process till you have three stitches. And three of the stitches require to be cast off. The process is pretty similar to learning the process of sewing a buttonhole on an old machine; you need to be patient.

Step 4: Put the Last Cast-of Stitch

Now that you have three different purlwise stitches, you need to place the very last of the cast-off stitch on the needly you have on your right hand. Take it towards to needle of your left hand. This step is pretty similar to one of the steps in how to tidy up knitted buttonholes guide.

Step 5: Cast on Four Stitches

Once you have placed the last cast-of stitch, you need to move the working yard to the very back. Keep the WS facing towards you. Then, follow the cable cast-on method to cast four of the stitches. Here, you might have to maneuver the right-hand stitch just like we maneuvered it on how to knit a buttonhole in rib guide.

Step 6: Move the Yarn to the Front and Finish the Work

Then, move the yarn to the very front. Turn the work and slip the first stitch. Here, pass the extra cast-on st over the first knitwise. After that, continue to work on the pattern.

After finishing off work, you might want to cut the yarn by following the same process we stated on how to use buttonhole scissors.

Final Words

Now that you know how to knit a buttonhole in garter stitch properly, hopefully, you will not have to struggle that much in the future. However, do go through the steps properly to get an adequate result.

REFERENCES

1. Engineering Apparel Fabrics and Garments
2. Advances in Apparel Production