Wooden Buttons for Sewing, Decoration and DIY Projects

Wooden buttons are flat wooden elements with two or four holes. Unlike beads, which are threaded through a single hole, buttons are sewn or tied through multiple holes. They are essential sewing supplies that double as decorative elements in craft and DIY projects.

Wooden buttons are part of the broader wooden beads category. They are used in sewing, scrapbooking, card making, decoration, knitting, and a wide range of handmade projects. Available in many shapes and sizes — geometric shapes, hearts, flowers, stars and novelty motifs — in natural wood tone, painted or printed finishes.

How to Choose

Start with the number and size of the holes. A two-hole button is quick to sew and works well for lighter projects. A four-hole button generally holds more securely and opens up cross-stitch or decorative stitch options. For garments, bags, or frequently worn accessories, four-hole buttons are the more practical choice.

Then consider size, thickness, and surface. Larger buttons make a strong accent; smaller ones are better for fine detail work.

Practical tip: When sewing on a button, pass the thread through the holes several times and tie the knot on the inside of the fabric. The button sits more securely, and the knot stays hidden. For a card, box, or decorative use, gluing is a simpler alternative to sewing.

A mistake beginners often make: not choosing the right size thread. The fix: check the hole size first and use a finer thread, cord or needle. For extra strength, use a double thread.

What they are used for

Sewing. The primary use — fastening or embellishing garments, bags, cushion covers and fabric toys. A wooden button adds warmth and a natural feel that plastic cannot replicate.

Scrapbooking and card making. Buttons are sewn or glued onto cards, albums, tags and gift wrap for a raised, tactile detail. See also the materials in the scrapbooking category.

Decoration and knitwear. Well suited for embellishing knitted and sewn pieces, garlands, wreaths, and seasonal decorations. Novelty shapes set a theme quickly, with little else needed.

DIY jewellery and accessories. A button can serve as an accent in a bracelet or bag charm — simply tie it onto a cord through two of the holes.

Project ideas

Wooden buttons are far more versatile than you think. Beyond sewing, they work beautifully as small decorative accents on gift cards, seasonal decorations, knitted pieces, handmade gift wrap, and personalised souvenirs. A few buttons grouped on a tag or tied onto a cord can be enough to make a simple gift feel considered and handmade.

What to combine them with

For sewing, use a fine thread or embroidery floss that passes easily through the holes. For no-sew decoration, craft glue is the simplest approach. Wooden buttons pair naturally with other natural materials — burlap, twine, cotton cord and wooden beads.

Delivery Information

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Which thread should I use for wooden buttons?

Choose a thread or embroidery floss that passes freely through the hole without filling it. For extra strength, use the thread doubled rather than switching to a heavier weight. A thread that matches the button colour keeps the stitch discreet; a contrasting colour turns the stitching into a decorative detail.

Are wooden buttons only for fastening?

Not at all. Alongside their functional role, buttons are widely used as decorative elements — on cards, knitwear, garlands, wreaths and as accents in handmade jewellery. Novelty shapes like hearts, flowers, and stars set a theme instantly, with no fastening involved.

How do I choose the right size?

For fastening, match the button to the buttonhole — it should pass through snugly but without forcing. For decoration, larger buttons make a focal point while smaller ones work better grouped as a cluster of detail. With novelty shapes, check that the form is still recognisable at the smaller size you are considering.

Wooden or plastic buttons — which should I choose?

Wooden buttons have a warm, natural look and are lighter — well suited for craft, rustic and eco-conscious projects. Plastic buttons are more water-resistant and come in brighter, more consistent colours. For anything that will be washed regularly, plastic is the more practical choice.