The pattern calls for "button molds;" I have no idea what those are, and a quick google search didn't help. I just put a plain old button inside and it worked fine. For this sweater, the pattern recommends a size B crochet hook (2.25mm), which produces a nice, firm fabric. The buttons I used were 7/8" diameter.
For each button:
Chain 3, join with slip stitch to form a ring.
Round 1: 6 sc in ring
Round 2: 2 sc in each sc (12 sc)
Round 3: *1 sc in next sc, 2 sc in next sc; repeat from * around (18 sc)
Round 4 and 5: 1 sc in each sc (18 sc)
Round 6: insert button mold; *sc in next sc, skip 1 sc; repeat from * around until mold is completely covered.
Fasten off.
sc = single crochet in US, or double crochet in British English
the back |
Once I'd made my first button, I found that there was too much empty space inside, so I eliminated Round 5. In other words, I only worked one round of single crochet after the increase rounds.
I also found it easier to work Round 6 all the way around once, and then insert my button into the cup-shaped space created. This helped keep the button from slipping out as I finished closing it up. To keep the back as flat as possible, I worked the last few stitches as slip stitches rather than as single crochets, and then left a tail long enough to use for sewing the button to the sweater.
There you have it. Like I said, easy peasy!
*Design number 27, Vogue Knitting Magazine Fall/Winter 1963
Cool - thanks! I'm assuming you used a button with a shank, not a button with holes?
ReplyDeleteOops, sorry! No, just a plain, shankless button. I think the shank would get in the way and make it more difficult to sew on. I just sewed right through the fabric of the button; it was really nice not to have to fish around for a hole!
DeleteHUGE thanks for posting this. You are right - they'll be perfect for my Wisdom. Now I just need to learn how to decipher a crochet pattern. I'm off to the yarn store to buy a hook and then I'll be looking at uTube. Thanks again!
ReplyDeleteDon't worry - it's super easy! I updated a little because I realized the terms are not the same in the US as they are in the UK. Not sure about Canada!
DeleteThanks for sharing! I Pinned this post for future reference.
ReplyDeleteSure thing!
DeleteThis is great, Gail... I will definitely use them!
ReplyDeleteI'm so impressed that you made your own buttons! You are such a good problem-solver.
ReplyDeleteGreat buttons Gail and I think I will have to use my basic crochet skills to try one!
ReplyDeleteCool! I'm glad I posted this - people seem to really like them!
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