Step-by-Step How To Backstitch On A Sewing Machine

Do you wonder what backstitching is? Or maybe why you need to do it? And how do you backstitch on your sewing machine? Backstitching is a simple sewing machine technique. It helps make your stitches strong. It stops your seam from coming apart. You do it at the start and end of sewing lines. It is key for making clothes or items that last.

How To Backstitch On A Sewing Machine
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Why Backstitching Matters

When you sew a line of stitches, each stitch links to the next. If you just stop sewing, the last stitch is loose. It can easily pull out. Like pulling a thread on a sweater. Soon, the whole seam can unravel. This makes your sewing project fall apart.

Backstitching solves this problem. You sew over the first few stitches again. Then you sew over the last few stitches again. This piles up stitches in one spot. It makes the seam strong. It acts like a knot. This is how you are Securing seams. It helps Prevent stitches unraveling. It helps Reinforce stitches where you start and stop.

Reasons to Backstitch

To make the start of your seam strong.
To make the end of your seam strong.
To keep stitches from pulling out.
To make projects last a long time.
It is a basic Sewing machine technique everyone should know.

Parts of Your Machine for Backstitching

Most sewing machines have a way to backstitch. Older machines have a lever. Newer machines might have a button.

The Reverse Stitch Lever or Button: This is the main part you use. It makes the machine sew backward. It is often called the Sewing machine reverse lever. Some machines call it a Reverse button. When you hold it down or push it, the machine sews in the opposite direction. When you let go, it sews forward again.
Needle and Thread: Of course, you need these! The needle goes up and down. It pulls the thread through the fabric. Backstitching uses your regular sewing thread and needle.

Learning to Backstitch Manually

Most machines let you backstitch by hand. This means you control when the machine sews backward. It uses the Reverse stitch feature. This is a very common way to do it.

Here are the steps:

Setting Up Your Machine

Before you start, make sure your machine is ready.

Thread your machine. Use your top thread and bobbin thread.
Pick the right needle for your fabric.
Set your stitch length. A normal stitch length is fine. Maybe 2.0 to 2.5 mm. Don’t make it too short or too long for backstitching. Too short can make a big thread mess. Too long won’t make it strong enough.
Put your presser foot down.

Starting a Seam with Backstitching

This is how you begin your sewing line the right way. This makes the start of your seam super strong.

Placing Your Fabric

Put your fabric under the presser foot. Line up the edge of the fabric with your seam guide. This is often a line or mark on the plate under the needle.
Place the fabric so the needle is right where you want your seam to end the backstitch, not where you want the seam to begin sewing forward. Let’s say you want your seam to start at point A. Place the needle at point A.

The First Few Stitches

Lower your presser foot.
Start sewing forward just a little bit. Sew maybe 3 to 5 stitches forward. These stitches mark the exact start of your seam.
Keep your fingers gently on the fabric. Guide it straight.

Engaging Reverse

Now, push and hold down the Reverse stitch lever or button.
The machine will start sewing backward. It will sew over the stitches you just made.
Sew backward for about the same distance. Sew 3 to 5 stitches backward. These stitches should go back to your starting point (point A).

Sewing Forward Again

While holding the lever or button, stop sewing.
Let go of the Reverse stitch lever or button. The machine is now ready to sew forward again.
Start sewing forward from point A. Sew all the way down your fabric edge. Sew the whole seam line you planned.

Visualizing the Start

Imagine this: You sew forward a little (1-2-3-4-5). Then you sew backward over those same spots (5-4-3-2-1). Now you are back at spot 1. From spot 1, you sew forward for the rest of your seam. This piles up stitches at spot 1, making it very strong.

Finishing a Seam with Backstitching

Just like the start, the end of your seam needs strength too. This stops the end from pulling apart.

Approaching the End

Sew your seam line all the way to the end point. Stop sewing when you reach the very end of where you want your seam to be.
Keep the needle down in the fabric. This helps hold everything in place.

Engaging Reverse to Finish

Push and hold down the Reverse stitch lever or button.
Sew backward for about 3 to 5 stitches. You are sewing back over the last stitches you just made.
These stitches go back from the end point along your seam line.

Stopping and Cutting

While holding the lever or button, stop sewing.
Lift the needle up out of the fabric.
Lift the presser foot up.
Pull the fabric out from under the foot.
Cut your threads. Leave tails about 3 to 4 inches long so they don’t pull back through the fabric right away. You can trim them shorter later.

Visualizing the End

Imagine you are sewing forward and reach the finish line (point B). You stop. Then you sew backward just a little way from the finish line (B-C). Then you stop. This piles up stitches at point B, making the end very strong.

When to Use Backstitching

Backstitching is useful in many sewing steps.

Starting and Ending Seams: Always do it here. This is the most common use. It stops your work from falling apart. This is key for Securing seams.
Pocket Corners: Pockets get stress. Backstitch a few stitches at the top corners of a pocket. This makes them stronger.
Zippers: Backstitch at the start and end of zipper stitching. Zippers get used a lot.
Straps and Handles: If you are sewing on a strap or handle, backstitch where it connects to the bag or item. These spots take a lot of pull. Reinforce stitches here.
Areas of Stress: Think about where your project will be pulled or stretched. Backstitch those spots to give them extra strength.

Grasping the Automatic Backstitch Function

Some modern sewing machines have an amazing feature: Automatic backstitch. This makes securing your seams even easier. You don’t have to hold the lever or button yourself.

How It Works

Machines with this feature have a special button. You usually push this button at the start of sewing. Or you might push it at the end.

At the Start: You press the button. The machine might sew a few stitches forward, then a few backward, then go back to sewing forward all on its own. It does the start backstitch for you.
At the End: You press the button when you are near the end of your seam. The machine might sew to the end, then sew a few stitches backward, and maybe even sew a final stitch forward. Then it stops. It finishes the seam for you.

Using the Automatic Backstitch

Look in your machine’s manual to see if it has this feature. If it does, the manual will tell you how to use it.

Steps with Automatic Function (Example)

Put your fabric under the foot.
Find the Automatic backstitch button (often looks like a box with arrows going back and forth).
Press the button before you start sewing forward.
Start sewing forward. The machine will likely sew a few stitches, automatically reverse for a few stitches, then automatically sew forward to start your seam.
Sew your entire seam line.
When you get to the end, press the Automatic backstitch button again.
Keep sewing slowly to the end. The machine might stop by itself and do the backward stitches. Or you might need to sew to the end and then it does the backstitch. Read your manual carefully.
Lift the needle and foot. Cut threads.

This function is great because it makes the backstitch very neat and consistent. It is part of advanced Sewing machine techniques.

Deciphering the Lock Stitch

Sometimes you hear the term Lock stitch. How is this different from backstitching?

Backstitching: This is sewing backward over stitches you just made. It piles up stitches. It makes the seam strong by building bulk at one spot.
Lock Stitch: This is often a tiny stitch sewn right on top of each other. It is not sewing backward a distance. It is more like sewing in place for just a few stitches. Modern machines might do this automatically when you press a ‘lock’ or ‘knot’ button. It makes a small pile of thread, locking the end.

Think of it this way: Backstitching goes back and forth a little bit. Lock stitch stays almost in one spot and stitches there many times. Both are ways of Securing seams and preventing stitches unraveling. Some machines offer a choice: do you want a backstitch or a lock stitch at the start and end? Check your machine’s settings and manual.

Getting Good at Backstitching: Tips and Tricks

Like any skill, practice makes perfect. Here are some tips for better backstitching.

Control Your Speed: Sew slowly when backstitching. This helps you sew right over the first stitches. Fast backstitching can make a mess.
Guide Gently: Don’t push or pull the fabric hard. Just guide it straight. The machine moves the fabric for you.
Watch the Stitches: Look at where your needle is going. Try to put it right back into the holes you just made. This makes the backstitch look neat.
Keep It Short: You only need 3 to 5 stitches backward. More than that just makes a bulky mess. It doesn’t add much strength. A short backstitch is enough to Reinforce stitches.
Practice on Scraps: Before sewing your main project, try backstitching on scrap fabric. Use two layers of fabric that are the same as your project. See how it looks. Adjust stitch length if needed. This helps with your Sewing machine techniques.
Check Thread Tension: If your backstitches look messy (loops on top or bottom), your thread tension might be off. This affects all your stitches, including the reverse stitch.
Start Exactly at the Edge: For a clean look, start your forward sewing right at the edge of the fabric. Then sew forward a few, back a few to the edge, and then forward for your seam. This way the backstitch starts right on the fabric, not off the edge.

Common Problems and Simple Fixes

Even simple techniques can have issues.

Messy Pile of Thread: This happens if you sew too many stitches backward or sew in place too long. Sew only 3 to 5 stitches back. Make sure you are actually moving backward a little, not just stitching in one spot (unless you want a lock stitch).
Stitches Don’t Line Up: It can be tricky to sew exactly over the first stitches. Go slow. Watch where the needle goes. With practice, you get better.
Fabric Jams Up: This can happen if you backstitch too much, especially on light or thin fabric. The fabric gets pushed down into the needle plate hole. Using a smaller stitch length or reducing the number of backstitches can help. Starting right at the edge (sewing forward a little, then back to the edge) can also help prevent this on tricky fabrics.
Backstitch Doesn’t Look Neat: Check your stitch length. Make sure your thread is not too thick for the needle and fabric. Slow down when backstitching.

Learning More Sewing Machine Techniques

Backstitching is just one basic skill. There are many more ways to use your machine.

Changing Stitch Length: Shorter stitches are stronger for curves or fine fabric. Longer stitches are good for gathering fabric or basting (temporary stitches).
Changing Stitch Width: For zigzag or decorative stitches.
Different Presser Feet: Machines come with feet for zippers, buttons, hemming, and more. Each foot helps you do a specific task easily.
Adjusting Tension: This is very important. If tension is wrong, your stitches look bad and can break easily. Learn how to check and fix tension.
Sewing Curves and Corners: Special techniques to make these smooth.

Each new technique you learn makes your sewing better. Knowing how to use the Sewing machine reverse lever is just the start!

Comparing Manual vs. Automatic Backstitching

Let’s look at the two main ways to backstitch.

Feature	Manual Backstitching	Automatic Backstitching
Control	You control when to sew backward.	Machine does it for you when button pushed.
Consistency	Can vary based on your control.	Very consistent stitch count and look.
Machine Type	Found on most machines (old and new).	Found on more modern, electronic machines.
Effort	Requires holding a lever or button.	Requires pressing a button once or twice.
Look	Can sometimes look a little less neat.	Often looks very clean and precise.
Learning Curve	Easy to learn the basic action.	Need to learn which button to push and when.
Best For	All basic sewing, gives you full control.	Quick work, projects needing high neatness.

Both methods achieve the goal of Securing seams and Preventing stitches unraveling. Use the method your machine has and that you feel most comfortable with.

Figuring Out When to Skip Backstitching

While backstitching is super important, there are a few times you might not do it.

Basting Stitches: These are temporary stitches you plan to remove later. You don’t need them strong.
Gathering Stitches: Like basting, these are temporary. You pull one thread to make fabric bunch up. Backstitching would make this hard or impossible.
Inside Seams that will be Crossed: Sometimes you sew a seam that will be crossed by another seam later. The crossing seam will lock the first one in place. In some cases, expert sewers might skip backstitching here to reduce bulk. But for beginners, it’s safest to backstitch everything!
Very Delicate Fabric: On some super sheer or delicate fabrics, backstitching can create too much bulk or damage the fabric. In these cases, a tiny Lock stitch right at the edge might be a better option, or even tying off the threads by hand.

For most everyday sewing, always backstitch at the start and end. It is the safest and best way to make sure your hard work lasts.

Keeping Your Machine Ready

A well-cared-for machine works best. This includes when you backstitch.

Clean Your Machine: Lint and dust build up. This can affect stitch quality, including reverse stitches. Clean around the bobbin area and feed dogs often.
Oil Your Machine: Follow your manual’s guide on where and how often to oil. A smooth-running machine makes better stitches.
Change Your Needle: A dull or bent needle can cause skipped stitches, uneven stitches, and can make backstitching harder. Change your needle after every major project or about every 8-10 hours of sewing time.

Good machine care is part of good Sewing machine techniques. It helps ensure your Reverse stitch function works perfectly every time.

Final Thoughts on Securing Your Work

Backstitching is a small step, but it makes a huge difference in your sewing projects. It takes maybe 5 extra seconds at the start and 5 at the end of a seam. Those 10 seconds save you from future problems like seams ripping open.

Whether you use the Sewing machine reverse lever or the Automatic backstitch function, the goal is the same: Reinforce stitches at the points of stress. Make sure your starting a seam and ending a seam are secure.

Practicing this skill will make it feel natural. Soon you will do it without even thinking. Your sewing will look better and last longer. Say goodbye to stitches unraveling! Master this simple technique and sew with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How many stitches should I backstitch?
A: Sew 3 to 5 stitches forward, then 3 to 5 stitches backward over them at the start. Sew to the end, then sew 3 to 5 stitches backward over the end stitches. This is enough to secure the seam.

Q: Can I just tie a knot instead of backstitching?
A: Tying knots with machine threads is hard and often not very strong. Backstitching is the standard way to secure seams on a sewing machine. It locks the stitches into the fabric itself.

Q: My machine doesn’t have a reverse lever or button! What do I do?
A: Very old or basic machines might not have a reverse stitch. In this case, you can start your seam, leave long thread tails, sew your seam, leave long thread tails at the end. Then, tie the thread tails together by hand at both the start and end of the seam. This is like making a manual Lock stitch. It’s not as strong as machine backstitching but helps.

Q: Is lock stitch the same as backstitch?
A: No, they are different but serve a similar purpose. Backstitching sews backward a few stitches. Lock stitch usually stitches in place for a few stitches. Some machines offer a lock stitch option instead of or in addition to backstitching.

Q: My backstitches look messy. What am I doing wrong?
A: Go slower. Watch where your needle is going. Sew only 3-5 stitches back. Check your thread tension. Make sure your fabric isn’t too thin for the stitch.

Q: Do I backstitch when sewing curves?
A: Yes, you still backstitch at the start and end of a curved seam just like a straight one.

Q: Does stitch length matter for backstitching?
A: Yes. A normal stitch length (2.0-2.5mm) is good. A very short stitch makes a dense pile that can jam the machine or look messy. A very long stitch won’t make a strong lock.

Q: What if my Automatic backstitch isn’t working right?
A: Check your machine’s manual. Make sure you are pressing the button at the right time (before starting or at the end). Make sure the feature is turned on in the machine settings if applicable. If problems continue, the machine might need service.