Abstract: A method of strengthening threads holding an article, such as a button, onto a fabric substrate by applying a bonding solution onto a damaged thread bundle holding the article onto the substrate; ensuring penetration of the bonding solution such that the bonding solution coats all thread strands of the damaged thread bundle from top to bottom including thread strands sewn into the fabric substrate to thereby form a coated thread bundle; and curing the coated thread bundle to form an aggregate stem which is stronger than the original thread bundle and more securely holds the article onto the fabric substrate. The properties of the bonding solution to perform in the manner stated require that it be a low-VOC, water-based urethane, water-based acrylic, or water-based urethane-acrylic being a single-component, non-catalyzed, solution further having non-ambering and heat- and water-resistant qualities after curing.