Parachute Shank
A parachute shank is a shank shape on a shank button in which the shank on the back of the button is supported at two points, allowing it to be sewn on without the thread passage being visible from the front.
Contents6 sections
Definition and Overview
Parachute shank is one type of shank formed on the back of a button. It is called this because the shank is supported at two points and resembles a parachute. The thread passage is on the back side of the button. Since the sewing thread is less likely to show on the front, it gives the design a neat appearance.
Unlike two-hole buttons or four-hole buttons, where thread is passed directly through the holes in the button, a parachute shank is attached to the garment body through the shank. However, the specific shape and name of the shank can vary by manufacturer and place of origin, so it is important to check the back-side shape when placing an order.
Materials and Structure
Parachute shank is not a material name, but a term indicating the structure of the button. It is used for buttons made of various materials, such as resin, shell, and metal. Because there are no sewing holes on the front side and the thread is looped around the shank on the back, it is suitable for designs that want to showcase the button body’s pattern, engraving, or sheen.
The shank height, the space for threading, and the thickness of the joint between the shank and the button body differ by product number. When attaching it to thick fabric, if the shank is too low, the area around the buttonhole may pucker easily; conversely, if the shank is too high, the button may become unstable. Therefore, it is important to check the balance with the fabric thickness.
How to Express Size
Button size is generally expressed by the maximum diameter of the front side in mm or lignes. Ligne is a unit used for buttons, and mm may also be listed together depending on the product. When comparing or writing specifications, it is important not to mix units and to clearly state the diameter and unit.
For parachute shanks, not only the front diameter but also the projection and height of the shank on the back affect sewing performance. Even with the same diameter, the required thread amount, how it sits with the buttonhole, and the feel when fastening and unfastening change depending on the shank dimensions, so it is advisable to check the actual item before mass production.
- In specifications, list the button diameter, the unit in mm or lignes, color, material, and shank shape.
- The length of the buttonhole is determined by looking at the button thickness and the fastening state including the shank.
Main Uses and How to Attach
Because it makes thread less visible on the front, it is used for front openings and cuffs on jackets, coats, blouses, dresses, and similar items. It is also used when you want to take advantage of a decorative front surface or when you want more dimensionality than with a button with holes. The application is determined by the button material, strength, and size.
For attachment, pass the thread through the threading part of the shank, and if necessary leave moderate space between the button and the fabric. When the fabric is thick or the area is subject to strong stress, using a backing button on the reverse side together can help distribute the load on the fabric from the thread.
Handling and Differences from Similar Shapes
Resistance to washing, dry cleaning, and ironing depends not on the parachute shank shape, but on the button body’s material, dyeing, coating, and bonding or molding method. Direct contact with a high-temperature iron, strong impact during washing, and contact with other hard accessories can cause cracking, chipping, discoloration, and surface scratches.
A shank button refers to buttons in general that have a shank on the back, and a parachute shank is one type of shank shape. A tunnel shank refers to a shape in which the thread passage is connected in a tunnel form, and a ring shank mainly refers to a ring-shaped metal shank. Do not judge by appearance alone; check the back side to distinguish them.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is a parachute shank button different from a two-hole button?
A two-hole button is sewn on by passing thread from the front through the two holes in the button body. A parachute shank differs in that the thread is passed through the shank on the back side, making the sewing thread less visible on the front. If front-side appearance is a priority, a parachute shank is an option.
Can a parachute shank button be machine washed at home?
Whether it can be washed does not depend only on the shank shape. Check the button material, surface finish, sewing strength, and the garment’s care label. To reduce impact during washing, follow the product instructions, such as turning the garment inside out and placing it in a laundry net.
Can a parachute shank button be ironed?
Heat resistance varies depending on the material. Some resin buttons deform easily with heat, and some surface finishes may discolor or lose gloss, so the basic rule is not to apply the iron directly to the button. If necessary, use a pressing cloth and check the condition in an inconspicuous area.
