A reader recently asked me: “Are there tips to threading the needle? The thread keeps fraying!”
I’ll start with the obvious — are you threading the needle properly?
You bring the thread to the needle, not the needle to the thread. That’s the most important thing.
Second, are you compressing the end of the thread to make it more pointy? You can do this by squeezing or twisting it slightly. That often helps.
The next best thing to do is use a needle threader, I find this takes care of the problem most of the time. Use one for needlework threads, the ones for sewing threads or beading are too flimsy. Several companies make them.
Some people find using a needle one size bigger makes the needle easier to thread. Since I use bigger needles anyway, I don’t do this.
These tips work for any thread, but some threads fray more than others. Flair should always be cut at an extreme diagonal. This doesn’t end unravelling, but minimizes it.
With other threads I have been told using a drop of FrayChek or clear nail polish works. Always let it dry before threading the needle. Since I never have either of these nearby I haven’t tried them.
Do you have any other threading tips?
About Janet M Perry
Janet Perry is the Internet's leading authority on needlepoint. She designs, teaches and writes, getting raves from her fans for her innovative techniques, extensive knowledge and generous teaching style. A leading writer of stitch guides, she blogs here and lives on an island in the northeast corner of the SF Bay with her family
I always take near the end of the thread and fold it tightly over the needle, pinch it with my finger and thumbnail and wiggle it through the needle eye. Clear as mud? Wish I could make a YouTube video to demonstrate.
Mary