How to Thread a Needle

Beginning sewers need to know how to thread a needle quickly and efficiently before learning how to do basic craft or sewing projects like needlework, quilting or sewing a button onto a shirt. There are two main ways to thread a needle. The second method, using a needle threader, works best for people with poor dexterity or eyesight.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Scissors
• Needle
• Thread
• Needle threader

Using a Needle and Thread

1. Snip off the end of the thread with scissors. This will give you a clean piece of thread to use, making it easier to thread the needle.

2. Hold the needle between your thumb and index finger on your left hand while holding the thread in your right hand. If you're left-handed, hold the needle with your right hand and the thread with your left.

3. Bring the thread slowly through the eye of the needle. Once the thread is through the needle, pull it down on the other side to the desired length.

4. Tie a knot at the end of the thread so it won't be pulled through the fabric while sewing. To make sure the knot is large enough, tie 2 knots at the end of the thread in the same place.

Using a Needle Threader

1. String the wire end of the needle threader through the eye of the needle. This will give you a larger hole in which to thread the needle.

2. Hold the needle and threader securely in one hand while picking up the thread.

3. Push the thread through the hole in the needle threader. You want 2 to 3 inches of thread pushed through the threader.

4. Pull the needle threader back through the eye of the needle. Wiggle the threader gently through the needle being careful not to break the wire on the threader.

5. Tie a knot at the end of the thread so it won't be pulled through the fabric while sewing. To make sure the knot is large enough, tie 2 knots at the end of the thread in the same place.