The Basic (Programmed) Machine-Sewn Button Hole

Everyone's machine is a little different, but Glory Allan's two-minute video on how to use the buttonhole function on your machine is a good place for beginners to start.

My machine (a Bernette 38) doesn't require me to push the lever back after each buttonhole, and I would guess each machine has its own quirks, but it's much easier to sort if you have a demo to start from.

The most important piece of advice to remember from this video? Always  – always – try it on extra fabric before your garment. That won't guarantee a perfect execution – countless tears dripped because it worked perfectly on the swatch and then failed miserably on the actual shirt. (I will hunt for trouble shooting videos to add to this collection.)

When an automatic button hole goes well, it's an absolute delight.