8" circle of fabric (you can use smaller or larger circles - an 8" circle will make a 4" flower - I don't recommend going much smaller than a 6" circle. You can also make a couple and stack them to make a more dimensional flower.)
Fabric covered button size 1 1/8" or larger
Sewing machine
Handsewing needle
First, using your machine's longest stitch, baste around the entire circle 1/4" from the edge. Go past your first stitches a little bit, but do not let the stitches overlap. Leave a few inches of thread at both ends for gathering.
Next, gather the edges as tightly as you can. To do this, just hold one thread, and gently slide the fabric along the other thread so that the fabric bunches up. When you've gathered as tightly as you can, tie the threads together securely, and snip the extra thread.
Next, with your handsewing needle, sew the gathered edges together at the center. It doesn't have to be pretty - this will be covered by your button - but it should be pretty secure.
Now you're ready to make your fabric covered button! This is so easy!
Cut a circle of fabric about twice as wide as your button. Some kits will have a little pattern to use, but it's pretty easy to just eyeball it! Place the fabric face down on a surface, then place the top part of the button on the fabric, also face down.
Place the fabric and button top into the button making tool. Gather up the excess fabric and stuff it inside the button top. Then use the presser part of the button making kit, and pop the button back onto the button.
Now you're ready to attach your button! Centered on the back of the flower, make a teeny snip, about 1/8 - 1/4" wide.
Place the button on top of the flower on the gathered side. Make sure all of the raw edges are tucked underneath the button. You can glue the button in place if you'd like to be sure it's very secure. Push the shank through the hole in the back of the flower and sew it to the surrounding fabric to secure it.
Now you can sew the button to your project - I recommend sewing it to a pin instead of sewing directly to a bag or clothing item, just because it's a little awkward with the button shank. You can also sew or glue it to a hairbow or headband!
