How to Thread a Needle and Tie a Knot

Threading a needle and securing a knot at the end of the thread are the first steps in any hand-stitching or sewing project.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Needle Threaders
• Sewing Needles
• Thimbles
• Threads
• Scissors

1. Choose a sewing needle that will be appropriate to your sewing project. Sharps are commonly used for hand sewing and come in a variety of sizes.
2. Choose a thread that's a darker shade than your fabric if you're unable to find thread that matches exactly.
3. Cut a 24-inch length of thread and pass the end of the thread through the eye of the needle. You may need to dampen the thread end in order to make it pass through easily.
4. Pull the thread through the eye far enough to create a tail of thread that's 3 to 4 inches long. This end remains unknotted.
5. Take the other end of the thread between your thumb and forefinger. Wrap the thread loosely around your forefinger one or two times and continue to keep the thread in place with your thumb.
6. Slide your forefinger down toward the base of your thumb, twisting the threads together until the loop that's formed is pushed off the forefinger end.
7. Grasp the loop between your thumb and forefinger at the point where the loop joins the rest of the thread.
8. Pull the loop until a knot is formed.

Tips & Warnings

• Choose a needle that's small enough to easily slide into fabric, but large enough to not bend or break. Use needles with larger eyes if you're using unusually thick thread or multiple thread strands.
• Choose thread labeled "general purpose" for most sewing projects.
• Avoid working with a length of thread longer than 24 inches. Longer thread lengths are more unwieldy and have a tendency to tangle.
• Metallic and plastic devices are available that will aid in the threading of a needle.
• Protect yourself when hand sewing by using a thimble.