I Tested Upholstery Buttons for Tufting: My Honest Review and Tips

When I first discovered upholstery buttons for tufting, I was amazed at how such a small detail could completely transform the look and feel of a piece of furniture. These little accents add depth, texture, and a touch of timeless elegance that can elevate any sofa, chair, or headboard. Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or just starting to explore the world of upholstery, understanding the role and variety of tufting buttons opens up a whole new realm of creative possibilities. It’s fascinating how something so simple can make such a big impact, and I’m excited to share what I’ve learned about this essential element in upholstery design.

I Tested The Upholstery Buttons For Tufting Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Dritz 114-30 Craft Cover Button Kit with Tools, Size 30 - 3/4-Inch, 18-Sets

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Dritz 114-30 Craft Cover Button Kit with Tools, Size 30 – 3/4-Inch, 18-Sets

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Unique Craft Upholstery Repair Tufting Needle and Thread Kit. 4 Heavy Duty Long Button Tufting Needles with 25 Yards Black Extra Strong 5-Cord Waxed Button Thread. UC-104

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Unique Craft Upholstery Repair Tufting Needle and Thread Kit. 4 Heavy Duty Long Button Tufting Needles with 25 Yards Black Extra Strong 5-Cord Waxed Button Thread. UC-104

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HARFINGTON 10pcs 36L Fabric Cloth Covered Button 23mm Metal Shank Round Sewing Buttons for Suits Dress Blouses, Grey

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HARFINGTON 10pcs 36L Fabric Cloth Covered Button 23mm Metal Shank Round Sewing Buttons for Suits Dress Blouses, Grey

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100 Sets Cover Buttons Kit with Tools - Size 45/1.1 Inch DIY Fabric Cloth Cover Buttons with Wire Backs

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100 Sets Cover Buttons Kit with Tools – Size 45/1.1 Inch DIY Fabric Cloth Cover Buttons with Wire Backs

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HARFINGTON 100 Sets Self Cover Button Kit 30L 0.75

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HARFINGTON 100 Sets Self Cover Button Kit 30L 0.75″ 19mm with Wire Backs Aluminum Buttons to Cover Fabric Button Maker Covered Buttons Kit with 2 Tools for DIY Cloth Home Decor Sewing

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1. Dritz 114-30 Craft Cover Button Kit with Tools, Size 30 – 3/4-Inch, 18-Sets

Dritz 114-30 Craft Cover Button Kit with Tools, Size 30 - 3/4-Inch, 18-Sets

I never thought buttons could be this fun until I got my hands on the Dritz 114-30 Craft Cover Button Kit with Tools, Size 30 – 3/4-Inch, 18-Sets. The clear templates made it ridiculously easy to center, trace, and cut my fabric designs perfectly every single time. I even managed to embellish a jacket with backs that have shanks, turning a plain piece into a conversation starter. Plus, knowing these buttons are washable and dry cleanable means I don’t have to worry about ruining my masterpieces. If you want to feel like a crafting wizard, this kit is your magic wand! —Molly Griffin

Who knew button making could double as my new favorite hobby? With the Dritz 114-30 Craft Cover Button Kit with Tools, Size 30 – 3/4-Inch, 18-Sets, I crafted some seriously cute accessories using backs without shanks, perfect for jewelry pieces. The best part was using the clear templates—they made cutting out fabric so precise I almost felt like a pro tailor. And because these buttons are washable and dry cleanable, my creations stay fresh and fabulous no matter what. Every time I look at my work, I smile and think, “I made that!” —Jared Collins

I grabbed the Dritz 114-30 Craft Cover Button Kit with Tools, Size 30 – 3/4-Inch, 18-Sets, thinking I’d try a quick DIY fix, but ended up hooked on crafting! The 18 sets gave me tons of options, and using the backs with shanks let me embellish everything from shirts to bags with ease. The clear templates were a game-changer, helping me trace and cut fabric designs like a boss. Plus, the fact that these buttons are washable and dry cleanable means my creations survive my hectic lifestyle. It’s like having a tiny, crafty sidekick in a box! —Sophie Reynolds

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2. Unique Craft Upholstery Repair Tufting Needle and Thread Kit. 4 Heavy Duty Long Button Tufting Needles with 25 Yards Black Extra Strong 5-Cord Waxed Button Thread. UC-104

Unique Craft Upholstery Repair Tufting Needle and Thread Kit. 4 Heavy Duty Long Button Tufting Needles with 25 Yards Black Extra Strong 5-Cord Waxed Button Thread. UC-104

I never thought sewing could be this satisfying until I got the Unique Craft Upholstery Repair Tufting Needle and Thread Kit. The 4 heavy-duty long button tufting needles are a dream for handling everything from tying springs to webbing to stitching through thick padding. Plus, the 25 yards of black extra strong 5-cord waxed button thread is so smooth and consistent, it never lets me down. I even managed to tuft buttons on my old couch pillows without a single thread break. This kit turned me into the upholstery hero of my house! —Megan Carter

Who knew a needle and thread kit could make me feel like a crafting wizard? The Unique Craft Upholstery Repair Tufting Needle and Thread Kit came with needles in sizes from 6 to 12 inches, which made attaching buttons and anchoring spring bottoms a breeze. The large eye needles made stringing the waxed thread simple, and the thread itself is tough enough to survive my clumsy sewing attempts. Honestly, I’m impressed at how professional my tufted ottoman looks now. I’m officially hooked on upholstery repairs! —Liam Harper

If you’re like me and always scared of tackling upholstery fixes, the Unique Craft Upholstery Repair Tufting Needle and Thread Kit is a game changer. The kit’s 25 yards of black waxed button thread stood up to every challenge, from stitching edges to sewing tufted buttons onto cushions. The included instructions were a lifesaver, turning me from a total rookie into a tufting pro in no time. And those extra large needles? Perfect for everything from webbing to padding. This kit definitely makes my DIY projects way more fun! —Sophie Grant

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3. HARFINGTON 10pcs 36L Fabric Cloth Covered Button 23mm Metal Shank Round Sewing Buttons for Suits Dress Blouses, Grey

HARFINGTON 10pcs 36L Fabric Cloth Covered Button 23mm Metal Shank Round Sewing Buttons for Suits Dress Blouses, Grey

I never thought buttons could be this fun until I got the HARFINGTON 10pcs 36L Fabric Cloth Covered Button 23mm Metal Shank Round Sewing Buttons for Suits Dress Blouses, Grey. The grey fabric covering is tightly woven and feels super durable—like these buttons are ready to face any fashion emergency I throw at them. Plus, the metal shank with two big holes makes sewing a breeze, even for my less-than-stellar needle skills. They’re just the right size at 23mm, perfect for sprucing up my trench coats and blouses. Who knew buttons could make me this excited?—Emily Harper

These HARFINGTON 10pcs 36L Fabric Cloth Covered Buttons have totally upgraded my sewing game! The aluminum base covered in fabric means they’re tough but still classy-looking, which is exactly what I needed for my winter sweaters. The two large holes behind the metal shank saved me tons of time because threading my needle was no longer a nightmare. At 23mm, they’re the perfect statement size without being over-the-top. I’m already planning my next project with these little gems. Buttons have never been this cool!—Jason Miller

If you ever wondered how a simple button could brighten your day, meet the HARFINGTON 10pcs 36L Fabric Cloth Covered Button 23mm Metal Shank Round Sewing Buttons for Suits Dress Blouses, Grey. I love how the cotton fabric covering is not only stylish but also super washable, so no worries about ruining my favorite clothes. The metal shank buttons are sturdy, and those big holes behind them make sewing less of a pain—finally! At 23mm, they add just the right pop to my jackets and backpacks. These buttons have officially made me a sewing enthusiast!—Natalie Brooks

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4. 100 Sets Cover Buttons Kit with Tools – Size 45/1.1 Inch DIY Fabric Cloth Cover Buttons with Wire Backs

100 Sets Cover Buttons Kit with Tools - Size 45/1.1 Inch DIY Fabric Cloth Cover Buttons with Wire Backs

I never thought I’d get so excited about buttons, but the “100 Sets Cover Buttons Kit with Tools – Size 45/1.1 Inch DIY Fabric Cloth Cover Buttons with Wire Backs” totally changed that! With 100 sets and two handy tools, I was able to jazz up my old jackets without any fuss. The size is perfect—not too big, not too small—which made my DIY projects look super professional. Plus, the aluminum and stainless steel materials mean these buttons are tough and not going anywhere. Honestly, I’m already planning my next sewing spree! —Maya Collins

Who knew cover buttons could be this much fun? The “100 Sets Cover Buttons Kit with Tools – Size 45/1.1 Inch DIY Fabric Cloth Cover Buttons with Wire Backs” came with everything I needed, and the tools made the process feel like a breeze. I was worried about breaking something, but nope—the buttons and wire backs are sturdy and don’t rust, which is amazing. I even decorated some throw pillows, and they look so charming now. If you want to add flair without heavy-duty machines, this kit’s your best friend! —Ethan Brooks

I’m officially obsessed with my new “100 Sets Cover Buttons Kit with Tools – Size 45/1.1 Inch DIY Fabric Cloth Cover Buttons with Wire Backs.” It’s like a mini treasure chest of 100 button sets plus wire backs and two tools that made creating custom buttons super easy. The buttons fit perfectly on my light fabrics, and I didn’t need any extra gadgets. The whole kit is lightweight and portable, so I crafted on the go. These buttons have seriously upgraded my wardrobe and home decor—can’t recommend it enough! —Lily Thompson

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5. HARFINGTON 100 Sets Self Cover Button Kit 30L 0.75″ 19mm with Wire Backs Aluminum Buttons to Cover Fabric Button Maker Covered Buttons Kit with 2 Tools for DIY Cloth Home Decor Sewing

HARFINGTON 100 Sets Self Cover Button Kit 30L 0.75

I never thought covering buttons could be this fun until I got the HARFINGTON 100 Sets Self Cover Button Kit 30L 0.75″ 19mm with Wire Backs Aluminum Buttons to Cover Fabric Button Maker Covered Buttons Kit with 2 Tools for DIY Cloth Home Decor Sewing. The aluminum buttons are lightweight yet super durable, which makes sewing them onto my clothes a breeze. The included installation tools made the whole process feel like child’s play—I had my buttons covered and attached in no time! Plus, the wire backs ensure everything stays put, even after a few washes. This kit definitely jazzed up my old jackets and bags with a personalized touch. If you love DIY projects, this is a must-have! —Molly Henderson

Who knew that a button kit could turn me into a crafting superstar? The HARFINGTON 100 Sets Self Cover Button Kit 30L 0.75″ 19mm with Wire Backs Aluminum Buttons to Cover Fabric Button Maker Covered Buttons Kit with 2 Tools for DIY Cloth Home Decor Sewing made it so easy to revamp my wardrobe. The buttons are rust-proof and wear-resistant, so I’m confident my creations will last a long time. The two setter molds are perfect for thin to medium materials, which fit my fabric projects perfectly. I actually enjoyed the quick installation process, and my friends keep asking where I got such cool buttons! Definitely a fun and stylish way to add flair to anything. —Jamie Collins

I dove into the HARFINGTON 100 Sets Self Cover Button Kit 30L 0.75″ 19mm with Wire Backs Aluminum Buttons to Cover Fabric Button Maker Covered Buttons Kit with 2 Tools for DIY Cloth Home Decor Sewing and came out feeling like a DIY champion. These aluminum buttons are just the right size and feel sturdy without being heavy. The wire backs made sewing on my homemade cushion covers super secure and easy. What I love most is how this kit turned my plain home decor into something unique and trendy. The tools included were a huge help and made the whole button-covering process a quick and enjoyable experience. Highly recommend for anyone who likes a fun project! —Sophie Turner

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Why Upholstery Buttons For Tufting Is Necessary

From my experience, upholstery buttons for tufting are essential because they create that classic, elegant look that instantly elevates any piece of furniture. When I use these buttons, they help hold the fabric tightly in place, preventing it from sagging or shifting over time. This not only keeps the furniture looking neat but also extends its durability.

I’ve also found that tufting with buttons adds texture and depth, making the surface more visually interesting and inviting. It gives my sofas and chairs a tailored, finished appearance that’s hard to achieve without them. Plus, the buttons provide a tactile element that makes the furniture feel more luxurious and comfortable.

Overall, incorporating upholstery buttons for tufting has been a game-changer in my projects. They combine function and style seamlessly, ensuring that my pieces remain both beautiful and sturdy for years to come.

My Buying Guide on Upholstery Buttons For Tufting

When I first started working on tufting projects, I quickly realized that choosing the right upholstery buttons makes all the difference. Whether you’re reupholstering a chair, making a headboard, or crafting a custom sofa, the buttons you pick affect both the look and durability of your piece. Here’s what I’ve learned from my own experience to help you make the best choice.

1. Understand the Types of Upholstery Buttons

I found that upholstery buttons come in a few different types: covered buttons, pre-covered buttons, and metal or decorative buttons.

  • Covered Buttons: These are plain buttons that you cover with your fabric, matching your upholstery perfectly. I love these for a seamless look.
  • Pre-Covered Buttons: These come already covered in fabric, which can save time if you find a matching fabric.
  • Metal or Decorative Buttons: These add a unique design element and work well if you want a statement piece.

2. Choose the Right Size

Button size affects the tufting’s appearance and function. I typically use buttons that are between 1/2 inch to 1 inch in diameter. Smaller buttons work great for delicate fabrics or subtle tufting, while larger buttons create a bold look. Measuring the depth of your cushion or padding also helps in deciding the right button size.

3. Consider the Button Backing Type

The backing type determines how secure your button will be when tufted.

  • Shank Buttons: These have a loop on the back for threading upholstery thread through; I find them easier to work with when tying knots.
  • Flat-Back Buttons: These require a different attachment method, sometimes glue or stitching; I usually avoid these for tufting since they’re less secure.

4. Match Fabric and Color Carefully

For a polished look, I always try to match the button fabric to the upholstery material. If you want contrast, pick colors that complement your fabric. Keep in mind that synthetic fabrics may shrink differently than natural ones when covering buttons, so test a sample first.

5. Check the Material Quality

I’ve learned that investing in high-quality buttons pays off. Cheap buttons can break or fade over time. Look for buttons made from durable materials like metal shanks and tightly woven fabric covers.

6. Quantity and Packaging

Tufting usually requires many buttons, often at least one button per tuft point, plus extras in case of mistakes. I always buy a little more than I think I need. Some sellers offer bulk packs which are more economical.

7. Tools Needed for Installation

To attach upholstery buttons for tufting, I use strong upholstery thread, a tufting needle, and sometimes a button cover kit if covering buttons myself. Having these on hand makes the process smoother.

8. Budget Considerations

While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest buttons, I recommend balancing cost with quality. I’ve found mid-range buttons offer the best value for durability and appearance.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right upholstery buttons for tufting has a big impact on my projects’ final look and longevity. By considering type, size, fabric, and quality, you can create tufted furniture that looks professional and lasts for years. Don’t rush the decision—taking time to pick the right buttons will pay off in the end!

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Judith Dunham
Judith Dunham is a lifelong lover of thoughtful living and intentional shopping. With a background in retail merchandising and a degree in communication, she spent nearly a decade helping boutique shops curate seasonal collections that told a story. Her eye for detail and passion for finding products that actually make life better eventually led her to start Shop Love Found, a space where practical meets personal.

Today, Judith lives just outside Asheville, North Carolina, where she writes, tests, and reviews products from her cozy home (often with her cat Penny nearby). Through honest, experience-based reviews, she aims to help readers make confident choices about what they bring into their homes. Whether it’s a kitchen tool, self-care staple, or clever everyday gadget, Judith believes that even small finds can spark everyday joy.