How do I calculate even buttonhole spacing?

Measure the total garment length or button band length, subtract the top and bottom margins, then divide the remaining length by (number of buttons minus 1). This gives the centre-to-centre spacing. For example, a 50cm band with 2cm margins and 6 buttons: (50 - 2 - 2) / 5 = 9.2cm between each buttonhole.

How big should a buttonhole be?

A buttonhole should be the diameter of the button plus 1-3mm of ease. Too tight and it will be difficult to fasten; too loose and buttons will pop open. Measure the button diameter at its widest point and add 2mm as a starting point. Adjust based on your yarn thickness and stitch type — thicker yarns need slightly more ease.

How far from the edge should the first and last buttonholes be?

Typically 1.5-3cm from each end. The exact distance depends on the garment design and button size. For a neckline with a collar, the top button is often 3-5cm from the edge to allow the collar to fold cleanly. For a simple crew neck, 2cm is standard. The bottom button should be far enough from the hem that it does not pull the band.

Where does the buttonhole sit on the button band?

Buttonholes are typically centred on the band. For a standard 8-10 row button band, the buttonhole runs horizontally through the centre row or rows. The centre offset value shows how far from the band edge the buttonhole centre falls. This helps when working a one-row buttonhole on a specific knitting row.

Should I knit buttonholes or button band first?

Sew buttons onto the button band first (or pin them firmly), then use those positions to place the buttonholes on the opposite band. This ensures alignment. Alternatively, use locking stitch markers to mark buttonhole positions on the wrong side of the buttonhole band while knitting, working the buttonhole on the marked rows.

KnitCalcs

Buttonhole Spacing Calculator — Even Button Placement

Calculate even buttonhole spacing, buttonhole size, and first/last positions along any garment button band.

Garment / Band Length

Total length of the button band or garment front

Number of Buttons

Total number of buttons (minimum 2)

Top Margin

Distance from top edge to last buttonhole

Bottom Margin

Distance from bottom edge to first buttonhole

Button DiameterDiameter of the button at its widest point

How We Calculate This

This calculator divides the available garment length evenly between buttonholes, respecting the top and bottom margins you specify.

Formulae

Usable length = Garment length - Top margin - Bottom margin
Spacing = Usable length / (Number of buttons - 1)
Buttonhole size = Button diameter + Buttonhole ease
Position n = Bottom margin + (n - 1) x Spacing

All positions are measured from the bottom edge of the garment or button band.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: March 2026

All calculations are estimates based on standard yarn weights and gauge. Results may vary with individual tension, yarn brand, and needle size.