How to Thread a Needle for Embroidery

Embroidery is a beautiful craft that lets you create stunning designs on fabric. However, one of the most common challenges faced by beginners and even experienced embroiderers is threading the needle. Most people struggle to handle strands of embroidery floss.

However, it’s not rocket science. The quickest way to thread the embroidery needle is to wax the strand and slide it through the bore. And, if you still can’t do it. Use a threader to help it pass through the thin bore of the needle.

Still confused about what’s a threader? Here’s a simple guide on how to thread an embroidery needle the right way, without the need for any mystical saliva! Let’s have a look.

The Right Way To Thread A Needle For Embroidery

Before you start, it’s essential to understand that embroidery needles have larger bores compared to regular sewing needles. These bores allow you to accommodate multiple strands of thread at once. Therefore, before learning the threading process, you need to choose the right bore size according to your thread thickness.

Now, let’s get into minor details about how to thread that needle.

Separate the Strands:

Most embroidery floss consists of six separate strands. These separable strands allow you to play with different thicknesses while stitching. Remember, twisted threads like perle cotton should not be divided.

To separate the strands, cut a piece of floss about the length of your forearm or slightly longer. Gently tap the end to locate and distinguish the individual strands. Hold the split end in one hand and run your finger down the thread to divide it. Let the strands untwist, and you’re good to go.

Threading Without a Needle Threader:

A common technique involves moistening the thread to help it slide through the needle. While this can work, it’s not the most hygienic or foolproof method. Instead, try this:

Start with a freshly cut end of the thread held between your thumb and index finger.
Bring the eye of the needle to the thread, squeezing the floss as you push it through. This might require a bit of practice, but it’s doable without perfect vision.
If you find it too tricky, dab a bit of beeswax or thread conditioner at the end of the thread to help it glide through smoothly.

Using a Needle Threader:

If you prefer a more straightforward approach, a needle threader might be your best friend. These little tools make threading a breeze.

Insert the loop or hook of the threader through the eye of the needle.
Place the end of the floss through the loop or hook of the threader.
Gently pull the threader to guide the floss through the eye of the needle. Be cautious, especially with thicker threads, to avoid snapping the wire loop off the threader.

How do you secure an embroidery thread?

There are a few different ways that you can secure an embroidery thread.

One way is to knot the thread around the fabric before you start stitching.
Another way is to use a needle with a built-in stopper, which will keep the thread from sliding out. You can also purchase special embroidery needles that have a blunt tip, which helps to prevent the thread from slipping.
Finally, you can use a locking stitch to secure the thread in place

What are the different embroidery needles?

Embroidery needles come in various types, and each type has its special job. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common ones:

Round-eye needle: This is the needle you’ll probably use the most. It’s great for general embroidery work. The eye, which is the hole you put the thread through, is round and makes it easy to thread.
Sharp-point needle: This type is super handy when you need to do detailed work. It has a pointy tip that can slip through the fabric easily, making it perfect for intricate designs and fine stitching. It is mostly used for embroidery on lightweight and delicate fabrics
Blunt-point needle: If you’re working with thicker fabrics, this one is your go-to. The blunt point is not as sharp as the other needles, but that’s good because it won’t damage the fabric. It’s perfect for materials like canvas or heavy cotton where you need a bit more muscle to get the needle through.

By understanding these different types of needles, you can choose the one that suits your embroidery project best and makes your stitching journey a whole lot smoother.

How to choose from the different embroidery needles?

When choosing the perfect needle for your embroidery project, several crucial factors come into play. To help you make an informed decision, let’s break down the key considerations and types of needles.

Types of Needles

The type of needle greatly impacts your embroidery process. For different pattern styles, you need to choose the right needles. Now let’s check on different needle types so that you can choose the right one.

Embroidery Needles:

These needles are known for their slender build and extended sharp tips. They work best with fabrics such as muslin, cotton, linen, or osnaburg. Embroidery needles have a large eye that makes it easy to thread with your chosen embroidery floss. They are versatile and suitable for a wide range of embroidery techniques and stitch styles.

Chenille Needles:

Chenille needles share a sharp point with embroidery needles but have a larger eye and a thicker form. They are effective on fabrics similar to those used with embroidery needles and are particularly useful when working with thicker threads or specialty yarns. Chenille needles enable you to achieve textured and raised embroidery effects.

Tapestry Needles:

Tapestry needles have a large eye and a blunt point. They are best suited for canvas work and counted cross-stitch on Aida fabric. Tapestry needles are ideal for needlepoint projects that require the needle to pass through the holes in the fabric.

Selecting the Right Size

In addition to choosing the appropriate needle type, the size of the needle plays a critical role in your embroidery project’s success. Needle sizes are denoted by numbers, with higher numbers indicating thinner or smaller needles. To ensure the desired results, match the needle size to the thickness of your embroidery floss. This will help you create the perfect stitch and minimize the size of the hole in the fabric as the needle passes through.

Quality Matters

The quality of your chosen needle is equally significant. Opting for high-quality needles is crucial. Cheaper or lower-quality options may bend or break during use, potentially causing damage to your embroidery project. By investing in quality needles, you ensure a smoother and more successful embroidery experience, leading to a beautifully finished project that showcases your skills and craftsmanship.

Conclusion:

Mastering needle threading your embroidery needle not only saves time and frustration but also ensures a smoother stitching experience. With these simple techniques, you can dive into your embroidery projects with confidence, knowing that threading your needle won’t be a roadblock anymore. So, pick up your needle and let your creativity flow!

However, if you want to switch to machine embroidery and avoid needle threading contact “The embroider” for embroidery digitizing services. We will digitize your design explaining the machine about the needle to choose, thread to select, and design to implement.

How To Thread A Needle For Embroidery