Buttonholes can be made by hand or with the sewing machine, although using a sewing machine is much faster and will look more professional.

Buttonholes are spaced evenly over the opening of the garment and should be located in the greater stressed areas. They can be vertical, or horizontal as long as they are on the fabric grain.

Horizontal buttonholes are more secure, because the buttons are unable to slip out. Position the horizontal buttonhole far enough from the edge of the garment to keep the button from sticking over the edge of the fabric.

Vertical buttonholes are generally used on shirts where smaller buttons are used.

Buttonholes are 1/8" longer than the button to ensure that the button will slide through easily. Stitches are kept even on both sides and apart far enough so that the buttonhole can be cut open without cutting into the stitches.

Interfacing, or another layer of fabric can be used to reinforce the fabric around the buttonhole, and strengthen the buttonhole.