How to Prevent Sewing Thread from Bunching

Wax can keep your thread from bunching as you sew.

Thread that moves cleanly and smoothly through the cloth makes sewing more efficient and enjoyable. If your thread bunches and tangles frequently, it can make your sewing take significantly longer. Keeping your thread free of bunching is a straightforward task that can be used by any hand sewer.

Things You'll Need

• Needle
• Thread
• Beeswax
• Ironing board
• Iron

Instructions

1. Thread your needle with about 18 to 20 inches of thread. While a longer thread can allow you to sew for longer periods, it also is more prone to bunching and knotting.

2. Set your iron to warm.

3. Press the thread against the block of beeswax with your thumb and drag the entire thread between your thumb and forefinger.

4. Lay the waxed thread on your ironing board.

5. Run your warm iron over the thread a few times. This will help prevent any waxy residue from getting on your fabric.

Tips & Warnings

• Beeswax is available at most fabric or craft stores.

• If you do not have a beeswax block, use a pure beeswax candle instead

• Choose thread suited to your project. If you are sewing from a pattern, check to see what sort of thread the pattern recommends. Heavier fabrics require heavier thread. If you are sewing on a fabric made of natural fiber, match the fabric to thread made of a similar material.

References

• Sewing Success Sewing Blog: Wax And Iron Your Hand Sewing Thread
• Clothing Repair and How-To Tips: Your Sewing Tools