How to Sew With Hand Needles

Sewing by hand is a useful skill to master because it can be used in a variety of ways. Whether you are mending clothing or working on a sewing project, there are many instances when you must complete some sewing by hand. Sewing with hand needles is also beneficial when you have a sewing project that you want to be able to take along when you are away from home. Learn how to sew with hand needles to master the techniques so that you will be able to easily stitch by hand when necessary.

Things You'll Need

• Needle (size 8-12)
• Fabric
• Thread
• Scissors
• Thimble (optional)

Instructions

1. Cut an 18 to 20-inch length of thread.

2. Thread one end of the thread through the needle. Make your thread tail at least 6 inches to prevent it from becoming unthreaded through the needle. Tie an overhand knot at the other end of the thread.

3. Stitch a running stitch into your fabric by inserting your needle up through your fabric from the underside of the fabric. Now insert your needle back through to the underside of the fabric and bring it back up again. Decide how big you want your stitches to be and make them all uniform in length.

4. Finish the running stitch with your needle on the underside of the fabric. Tie an overhand knot at your ending point and trim off the excess thread.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear the thimble on the third finger of your dominant hand if desired. The thimble is used to protect your fingertip when pushing the needle through the fabric.