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How To End A Stitch On Sewing Machine Properly Guide
How do you stop thread from coming undone on a sewing machine? You stop thread from coming undone by properly ending your stitching line. This is done using techniques like backstitching or using a special lock stitch function found on many machines. Doing this makes sure your stitches stay in place. It helps you finish sewing seams the right way. This makes your sewing strong and lasting.
Why Ending Stitches Matters A Lot
Stopping your stitches right is a big deal in sewing. If you do not secure the end of a seam, the stitches can pull out. This means your sewing work can come apart. This happens easily on edges or places that get a lot of use. Think about the bottom of a shirt or the corner of a bag. They need strong stitches. Learning how to end a stitch well is key. It helps you prevent stitches unraveling. It keeps your projects together for a long time. A secure sewing stitch is a sign of good work.
Main Ways To End Your Stitching
There are a few good ways to end your stitches on a sewing machine. The best way depends on what you are sewing. It also depends on your sewing machine.
The most common ways are:
- Using the reverse stitch function (backstitching).
- Using an automatic lock stitch.
- Tying off threads by hand.
Each way helps you finish sewing seam edges safely. Let’s look at each way closely.
Employing The Backstitch Method
This is the most used way to end a stitching line. It is simple and strong. It works for almost all projects. You sew a few stitches backward on top of your last stitches. This ties them in place.
Grasping How Backstitching Works
The backstitch sewing machine method uses your machine’s reverse stitch function. When you sew forward, the machine makes a lock stitch. This stitch links the top thread and bottom thread together. When you sew backward over the same spots, you make these links in reverse. This locks the loop in place. It is like tying a knot with your machine’s stitches. This makes a very secure sewing stitch.
Steps For Using The Reverse Stitch Function
Using the reverse button or lever is easy. Here is how you do it at the end of your seam:
- Sew your seam until you reach the end of where you want to sew.
- Sew right to the edge of the fabric.
- Stop sewing forward. Keep the needle down in the fabric. This is important. Keeping the needle down holds your place.
- Find your machine’s reverse button or lever. It often looks like a curved arrow or a small rectangle. It might have “R” or “Reverse” written on it.
- Press and hold the reverse button or push the lever.
- Gently press the foot pedal. Your machine will start sewing backward.
- Sew backward for about 3 to 5 stitches. You do not need many. Just a few stitches are enough to secure the end of a seam.
- Stop sewing backward.
- Let go of the reverse button or lever.
- Sew forward again for 1 or 2 stitches. This finishes the lock. It also gets the machine ready to lift the presser foot.
- Stop sewing.
- Lift the needle to its highest point.
- Lift the presser foot.
- Pull your fabric away from the machine needle and presser foot. Pull it toward the back or side.
- Cut the threads.
This short burst of back and forth sewing creates a neat, strong stitch ending. It really helps prevent stitches unraveling. It is a fast way to tie off sewing thread without making a hand knot.
Where Backstitching Is Best
Backstitching works well for most sewing projects. It is great for clothes, bags, and home decor items. It is especially good where seams will have stress. Like the start and end of pockets, straps, and seams that will be pressed open. The backstitch sewing machine method is a go-to technique for many sewers.
Using The Lock Stitch Technique
Some modern sewing machines have a special stitch just for ending seams. This is called a lock stitch technique. Or sometimes an auto-lock or knot function. This stitch is different from a regular backstitch.
Interpreting The Lock Stitch Technique
Instead of sewing back and forth, the machine sews several tiny stitches on top of each other right in one spot. It makes a tight little bundle of thread. This bundle acts like a very secure knot. It makes a secure sewing stitch right where you stop. It looks very neat because it does not go back along the seam line. It stays just at the end point.
Steps For Using Automatic Lock Stitch
Using this function is often even easier than backstitching.
- Sew your seam until you reach the end point.
- Stop sewing forward. Keep the needle down if possible.
- Find your machine’s lock stitch button. It might look like a knot or a box with an arrow pointing down. Check your machine manual if you are not sure.
- Press the lock stitch button.
- The machine will automatically sew a few very small stitches in place.
- The machine might stop on its own after making the stitches. Or you might need to stop pressing the foot pedal.
- Some machines will even cut the thread for you after this.
- Lift the needle.
- Lift the presser foot.
- Pull your fabric away.
- If your machine did not cut the thread, you will need to cut it yourself.
This lock stitch technique is fast. It gives a clean look to the finish sewing seam. It is a very effective way to tie off sewing thread at the end of a line.
When To Pick The Lock Stitch
Use the lock stitch technique when you want a very clean end. It is good for visible seams or edges. It is also good for delicate fabrics where backstitching might look bulky or damage the fabric. If your machine has this, it is a great option for a quick, strong finish.
Manual Tie-Off Method
Sometimes, backstitching or a machine lock stitch is not right for your project. This could be on very fine fabrics, or when starting/ending decorative stitches. Or if your machine does not have a reverse or lock function that works well for you. In these cases, you can secure the stitch by hand. This involves making a small sewing machine knot right at the fabric.
Fathoming Hand Tying Off
This method means leaving longer thread tails at the end of your stitching. You then use a needle to secure these tails on the back of the fabric. It is a very controlled way to tie off sewing thread. It makes a strong, but less bulky, secure sewing stitch.
Steps For Tying Off Threads By Hand
This takes a little more time than using the machine, but it gives you fine control.
- Sew your seam to the end point.
- Do not backstitch or use the machine lock stitch.
- Sew right off the edge of the fabric for 1 or 2 stitches. This leaves loops.
- Lift the needle.
- Lift the presser foot.
- Pull the fabric away, leaving threads about 4 to 6 inches long. Do not cut them short!
- Thread the top thread tail onto a hand sewing needle.
- Turn your fabric over to the back side.
- Pass the needle under a few stitches on the back of the fabric, very close to where your machine stitching ended. Pull the thread through, but not all the way. Leave a small loop.
- Pass the needle through the loop you just made. Pull gently to form a small knot. This is your sewing machine knot tied by hand.
- You can make one or two more small knots right on top of the first one for extra strength.
- Weave the thread tail through a few more stitches on the back. This hides the thread and adds more security.
- Cut the thread tail close to the fabric.
- Repeat steps 7-13 for the bobbin thread tail.
This manual method is good for making a very tidy finish sewing seam. It helps prevent stitches unraveling without adding bulk.
When To Choose Manual Tie-Off
Use this for:
- Delicate or sheer fabrics.
- Ending decorative stitches that look bad with backstitching.
- Starting seams in a place that is hard to backstitch neatly.
- When you need a totally flat finish.
Cutting Your Threads
No matter how you end your stitch, the final step is always to trim sewing threads. This seems simple, but doing it right makes a difference.
Deciphering Thread Cutting
You need sharp scissors to cut threads close to your work. But not too close! Cutting too close to the fabric can sometimes weaken the stitch end. This is true even with a good backstitch or knot.
Steps For Trimming Sewing Threads
- Finish securing your stitch using one of the methods above.
- Make sure your needle is up and the presser foot is lifted.
- Pull your fabric away from the machine.
- Find the thread tails. There will be two (top and bobbin).
- Use sharp scissors or a thread snips tool.
- Cut the threads about 1/4 to 1/2 inch away from the fabric edge.
- Be careful not to snip the fabric or your stitches!
Some machines have a cutting thread sewing machine feature. This is usually a small blade on the side of the machine body. You slide your threads into it after you pull the fabric away. It cuts the threads for you. Some advanced machines have an automatic thread cutter. This cuts the threads right after you finish a stitch and press the button (often the lock stitch button).
Why Not Cut Super Short?
Leaving a tiny bit of thread helps keep the stitch end stable. If you cut right at the knot or the fabric surface, the thread end can sometimes slip back through the fabric hole. This can slowly lead to the stitch coming undone over time. Leaving a little tail prevents this. For most fabrics, a small tail is fine and does not show. If you need a super clean look, you can still cut close, but be aware it is slightly less secure.
Choosing The Right End For The Right Place
Knowing how to end a stitch is one thing. Knowing which way to use is another. Here are some tips:
- Most seams (like side seams on clothes): Use backstitching. It is fast, strong, and easy. The backstitch sewing machine method is your everyday friend.
- Start/end of zippers or areas of high stress: Backstitch a little longer (5-7 stitches). This adds extra strength.
- Edges that will be shown or on delicate fabrics: Use the machine lock stitch technique if your machine has it. Or tie off sewing thread by hand. This gives a cleaner look and is gentler.
- Decorative stitches: Usually tie off by hand. Backstitching over fancy stitches can look messy. Making a sewing machine knot by hand keeps the pattern neat.
- Inside seams that won’t be seen: Backstitching is perfectly fine. Speed and strength are key here.
- Starting a seam in the middle of fabric (like a patch): Backstitch a few stitches forward first before sewing the main seam. This anchors the start point.
Picking the right method helps you finish sewing seam lines with confidence. It makes sure your work lasts.
Steering Clear Of Common Problems
Even simple steps can have small issues. Here are some things to watch out for when ending your stitches:
- Not backstitching enough: If you only backstitch 1 or 2 stitches, it might not be enough to hold. Aim for 3-5.
- Backstitching too much: Backstitching a lot (more than 5-7 stitches) makes a bulky knot. It can look bad. It can also be hard to sew over later if seams cross.
- Cutting threads too short: As we talked about, cutting right at the fabric edge can let the stitch pull out. Leave a little tail.
- Not using the reverse stitch function correctly: Make sure you are pressing the button or lever and the machine is truly sewing backward.
- Pulling fabric while backstitching: Let the machine feed the fabric when backstitching. Do not push or pull hard. This can cause tangled threads or broken needles.
- Thinking the machine’s “auto-lock” is perfect for everything: The lock stitch technique is great, but sometimes (like on thick fabrics) backstitching is stronger. Know your machine and what works best.
- Threads birds nesting at the start/end: Sometimes thread gathers under the fabric. This can happen if you do not hold the thread tails at the start of a seam. It can also happen if your machine settings are wrong or if you do not lift the presser foot before pulling the fabric away after finishing. Always lift the foot!
Paying attention to these small points helps you prevent stitches unraveling and gives you a neat finish every time.
Sewing Machine Parts That Help
Your sewing machine has special features designed to help you end stitches well.
Deciphering The Reverse Button/Lever
This is the key part for backstitching. Every sewing machine, even very old ones, usually has some way to sew backward. On modern machines, it is often a button you press and hold. On older machines, it might be a lever you push down. This lets you use the backstitch sewing machine technique. It’s a basic but vital part of how to end a stitch.
Composing The Automatic Thread Cutter
Many newer machines have this feature. It saves you time and effort. After you finish your stitch (often after using the lock stitch technique or a programmed end stitch), you press a button. The machine pulls the threads to the back and cuts them neatly. This is part of the cutting thread sewing machine system. It helps finish your seam quickly and cleanly.
Grasping Why Stitches Stay
The basic stitch most sewing machines make is called a lockstitch. It is formed by the top thread and the bobbin thread looping together inside the layers of fabric. This is why a machine stitch does not unravel easily from the middle. Each loop holds the next one. However, at the very start and very end, the first and last loops do not have another loop holding them. This is why you need to secure sewing stitch ends. Backstitching, the lock stitch technique, or a hand-tied sewing machine knot all make sure that first or last loop cannot easily pull free. This is how you prevent stitches unraveling from the ends.
Putting It All Together
Ending a stitch properly is not just one step. It is a small set of actions you do at the end of every stitching line. It involves using your machine’s features like the reverse stitch function or lock stitch technique. It also involves the simple act of knowing how to trim sewing threads. And sometimes, it means taking the time to tie off sewing thread by hand for the neatest finish.
Each time you sit at your machine, think about how you will end the stitch before you even start sewing. This little bit of planning makes a big difference in how strong and neat your final project is. A well-finished seam is a strong seam. It helps prevent stitches unraveling and makes your handmade items last longer.
Practice using backstitching until it feels natural. If your machine has a lock stitch technique, try it out and see how you like it. Learn how to make a neat sewing machine knot by hand for those special cases. Soon, securing your stitch ends will be an easy, automatic part of your sewing process. It is a fundamental skill that makes all your sewing better. It helps you finish sewing seam edges like a pro.
FAQ: Answers To Common Questions
Q: What is backstitching?
A: Backstitching is sewing a few stitches backward on top of your sewing line. You use the reverse stitch function on your machine. It helps make stitches strong at the end.
Q: Why do I need to secure my stitches?
A: You secure stitches so they do not come undone. Machine stitches can pull out from the ends if they are not tied down. This helps you prevent stitches unraveling.
Q: How many backstitches should I do?
A: Usually 3 to 5 backstitches are enough. Doing more makes the stitch bulky. Doing fewer might not hold well.
Q: What is a lock stitch technique?
A: A lock stitch technique on a machine makes tiny stitches in place at the end of sewing. It ties off sewing thread without sewing back along the seam. It makes a clean end.
Q: When should I tie off threads by hand?
A: Tie off threads by hand for delicate fabrics or decorative stitches. It gives a cleaner look than machine backstitching. You make a small sewing machine knot on the back.
Q: Should I cut threads right at the fabric edge?
A: No, it is better to leave a small thread tail (about 1/4 to 1/2 inch). Cutting too close can let the stitch pull out over time. Trim sewing threads carefully.
Q: Does backstitching work on all fabrics?
A: Backstitching works on most fabrics. On very sheer or delicate fabrics, it might look bulky or pull threads. For those, consider a lock stitch technique or hand-tying.
Q: My machine makes a mess when I backstitch. Why?
A: This can happen if thread tension is off, or if you pull the fabric while backstitching. Make sure your machine settings are right and let the machine feed the fabric.
Q: What is the reverse stitch function?
A: The reverse stitch function is a button or lever on your sewing machine. It makes the machine sew backward. It is used for the backstitch sewing machine method.
Q: How do I use the cutting thread sewing machine feature?
A: If your machine has a manual cutter, slide the threads into the slot after pulling your fabric away. If it has an auto cutter, press the designated button after finishing your stitch.
Q: Is a sewing machine knot necessary?
A: The ‘knot’ is made by securing the stitches. Backstitching or a machine lock stitch makes this knot with stitches. A hand-tied sewing machine knot does the same but by hand. It makes a secure sewing stitch.
Q: What does it mean to finish sewing seam?
A: Finishing a seam means securing the stitches at the start and end. It makes sure the seam stays together and does not unravel.
Q: How does ending the stitch properly prevent stitches unraveling?
A: Securing the end stitches locks the final loops in place. This stops them from pulling free from the fabric edge. This prevents stitches unraveling from the start or end of the seam line.