Concealed-hole Button

Definition and Overview

A concealed-hole button is a button shape that can be attached without exposing through-holes like the common two-hole or four-hole types on the front of the button. Because the sewing thread is less visible from the front, it is used for specifications that emphasize the button’s own color pattern, luster, engraving, and so on.

The hole position and the thread path inside the button vary by product. Some have holes set in a recess on the back, while others have a structure that threads from the side. When placing an order, it is important to confirm not only the front view but also the back shape and the actual thread path.

Materials and Structure

Concealed-hole button refers to the hole structure, not a specific material. It may be made from resin, shell, real buffalo horn, and other materials. Depending on the material, hardness, thickness, the finish around the hole edge, and resistance to washing and heat will differ.

Standard pierced buttons show the holes and sewing thread from the front, but concealed-hole buttons are characterized by making the holes less visible from the front. Unlike shank buttons, which have a separate shank protruding from the back, many have the thread path inside the button body or on the back side.

• The number of holes, hole layout, and thread direction vary by product.
• For thicker shapes, confirm with the actual item whether it will pass through the buttonhole.
• Because there are no front holes, the appearance is cleaner, but the back-side sewing specification becomes important.

Size Notation

Button size is generally expressed by diameter in mm or lignes. Ligne is a customary unit for buttons, and 1 ligne is approx. 0.635 mm. In specifications, listing not only the diameter but also the thickness, back-hole position, and the size of the compatible buttonhole helps prevent misunderstandings.

With concealed-hole buttons, even if the front diameter is the same, the ease of passing through the buttonhole changes depending on the thickness, the roundness of the sides, and the hole position. Before mass production, it is important to perform an actual-item check that includes the textile thickness and the buttonhole stitching specification.

Main Applications

They are used on shirts, blouses, cardigans, jackets, coats, and similar items as buttons for front openings and cuffs. Because thread is less visible on the surface, they are suitable for garments where you want decorative buttons to look neat, or for garments that should appear polished and understated.

However, the location of use should take into account frequency of opening and closing as well as load. For areas operated repeatedly, such as the center front or cuffs, consider a sewing method suited to the hole shape, the type of thread, and whether reinforcement is needed, and confirm opening/closing performance and retention with a prototype.

Attachment and Handling Notes

When attaching, confirm the hole entry and exit, and pass the thread so it does not come out onto the surface. Tightening the thread too much can cause the fabric to pucker or make it difficult to insert and remove the button from the buttonhole. Provide appropriate slack according to fabric thickness, and add a thread shank if necessary.

Resistance to washing, dry cleaning, and ironing depends not on the concealed-hole shape itself but on the button material and surface finish. Follow the care label and attached handling conditions, and do not apply the iron directly to the button. Strong impact or pressure may cause breakage, chipping, discoloration, or surface scratches, so caution is required.

• Before sewing, confirm that the thread used passes smoothly through the inside of the hole.
• When using a button-sewing machine, confirm in advance the hole position and whether it is compatible.
• When doing garment washing, test for breakage, chipping, discoloration, and thread breakage.

Frequently Asked Questions