[Kim]

What is the best way to cut the slit in the fabric without cutting through the stitching?

[isewstuff]

I have one of these tools and love it!

http://www.berninausa.com/product_detail-n26-i86-sUS.html

[sayiamyou]

I actually use my rotary cutter and ever so slightly make a small cut, then I use a very sharp knife to complete the cut. While probably not the smartest thing to do, it works well for me.

[Liesl Gibson]

I use my seam ripper. Cut away from the end of the buttonhole toward the center on both sides. Then cut the center portion with your scissors. This way you don’t risk over-shooting that bartack at the ends!

[lattemama]

I push a pin through at one end where I absolutely want to stop the hole. Then I use the seam ripper and start at the other end moving away from the edge of the buttonhole towards the pin.

The pin will stop me if I should slip.

[Anonymous]

The pin is a great idea! Why didn’t I think of that?? I always use my seam ripper. It’s actually called a button hole knife in my manual.

[Nicole]

I use a pin in one end ,like lattemama, make a small hole with my quick-un-pick (seam ripper) and then use tiny embroidery scissors to complete the hole.

I still feel ill remembering a swiss cotton maternity blouse I ruined with a blunt quick-un-pick and hormones !

[corlee]

i use an exacto knife. it works the best for me.