Sewing for dummies

On this page we’re going to deal with all the embarrassing basics about sewing that most of us really won’t confess to not knowing about. So, we wondered, what was the most basic, basic thing about sewing that some people (not you of course) don’t know how to do?

Lesson 1: threading a needle

Step 1 Choose a sewing needle that will be appropriate to your sewing project (see Tips & cautions below)

Step 2 Choose a thread that matches the fabric you are sewing. If you can’t find a match choose a thread that is a shade darker, rather than lighter, as it will not show as much.

Step 3 Cut a 24-inch length of thread and pass the end of the thread through the eye of the needle. It can help to dampen the end of the thread. You can also use plastic and metallic needle threaders to help with this.

Step 4 Pull the thread through the eye far enough to create a tail of thread that’s 3 to 4 inches long.

Step 5 Tie off the long end. Take the other end of the thread between your thumb and forefinger. Wrap the thread loosely around your forefinger once or twice and continue to keep the thread in place with your thumb.

Step 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.

Step 7 Grasp the loop between your thumb and forefinger at the point where the loop joins the rest of the thread. Pull the loop until a knot is formed.

Tips & watchouts

• Needles come in a variety of sizes. Choose one that’s small enough to easily slide into fabric, but large enough not to bend or break. If using a thick thread use a needle with a larger eye.
• Threads also come in different weights and materials. However for most sewing projects a “general purpose” will do.
• Avoid working with threads that are too long as they are harder to work with and more likely to tangle and knot.