How To Thread An Embroidery Needle Step-By-Step
- WAWAK Sewing Supplies
- 8 minutes ago
- 4 min read
A journey of a thousand stitches begins with threading your needle! If you're new to embroidery (or hand sewing in general), threading an embroidery needle can be a frustrating start to a project. But with a bit of practice, this once tedious task can become second-nature. Read on for WAWAK's step-by-step guide on how to thread an embroidery needle, plus a few tips for making threading as smooth and painless as possible. Let's get started!
HOW TO THREAD AN EMBROIDERY NEEDLE
Materials You'll Need:
Set yourself up for success in your embroidery project by having the right tools on hand. You'll need a few simple sewing notions for any embroidery project:
It's best to use a needle specifically designed for the type of sewing you'll be doing. In the case of embroidery, look for embroidery or crewel needles for the best stitching experience. Embroidery needles are available in a variety of sizes; sizes 7-9 are popular for many sewers, or you can try a size assortment pack to test out a few options.
Embroidery Thread / Embroidery Floss
The most commonly used style of thread for hand embroidery is 6-stranded cotton thread, known as embroidery floss. Other styles of embroidery thread include Sashiko Threads, pearl cotton thread, metallic threads and more.
Specially designed for making very small cuts, embroidery scissors are essential for preparing your thread before sewing and trimming threads as you go.
(Optional) Needle Threader
If you're having a lot of difficulty threading an embroidery needle with your hands alone, a needle threader can make the task much easier.
How to Thread a Needle For Embroidery Step-By-Step
1. Prepare the Thread
To begin, cut a length of thread around 12-18 inches long. This doesn't have to be a precise measurement—you just want to avoid working with a strand of thread that's too long to help prevent tangling later on. Many sewers measure their working thread using the length of their forearm or the length from fingertip to elbow. If you're using stranded embroidery floss, separate the strands according to your pattern's directions, usually 2 or 3 strands depending on the level of detail in the project. Pull the designated number of strands apart from the rest of the thread and set aside the remaining strands for later.
2. Create a Clean Cut
A cleanly cut thread end is key to smooth needle threading. Using sharp embroidery scissors or thread snips, trim the end of the thread to remove any fraying that could prevent the thread from easily passing through the needle eye.
3. Thread the Needle
Holding very closely to the end of the thread, grasp the thread between your thumb and forefinger so the cut end barely sticks out between your fingers. Lightly squeeze the thread between your fingers to flatten it. In your other hand, hold the needle with the eye facing the thread. Then, bring the needle eye towards the thread end and slide the needle onto the thread.
4. Pull Through & Knot the Thread
Pinch the thread and pull it through the needle eye, leaving a tail about 2 inches long on one side. If desired, tie a small knot at the end of the thread (on the longer side) to help anchor it once you start embroidering. Knotting the thread is optional; many embroiderers prefer to avoid using knots for a smoother finish, but it can be a helpful technique to help new sewers avoid pulling the thread all the way through the fabric.
Alternate Method: Using a Needle Threader
For those who have persistent difficulty threading a needle (or who just want to make it a little easier on themselves!) a needle threader is a great option for quicker, easier threading. Using a needle threader to thread an embroidery needle is as easy as 1, 2, 3:
1. Insert the Wire Loop
Pinch the wire loop on the needle threader and insert it into the eye of the needle.
2. Thread the Wire Loop
Slide the thread through the wire loop and hold the thread tail.
3. Pull the Threader Through
Pull the needle threader back through the eye, bringing the thread with it!
For more detailed instructions and a visual guide to using a needle threader, see our previous post on How To Use a Needle Threader.
Tips For Embroidery Needle Threading
A needle eye is small and can be hard to see! Ensure your area is well-lit for maximum visibility. Some sewers also find it helpful to thread their needle against a light background, such as a white piece of paper or fabric, for better visibility.
If you're having a hard time threading a needle, particularly when working with thicker threads, try applying a small amount of thread wax to the end of the thread to stiffen it.
Don't be afraid to try again! Needle threading takes a bit of practice. Snip the end whenever your thread starts to fray and give it another shot.
Once you've got your needle threaded, the fun can really begin! Whether you're taking your first step into stitching or dreaming up your next project, WAWAK is here for every step of your sewing journey. From embroidery needles to backing and stabilizers, we have the notions you need to bring your projects to life. Happy stitching!
