Beginning and Ending Threads - Part 1

Hello Stitchers,

There are several methods of beginning and ending threads.  Some are better than others, depending on the area and the thread. One method does not fit all.

It is best to begin with an "away - waste knot".  This is a knot that is away from your stitching and is going to be cut off and become waste.  It is also described as an "away" or "waste" knot.   This method of starting is best used where there is no existing stitching to anchor your thread.

Thread your needle and put a knot in the end of the thread.  This knot is stitched on top of the canvas. It is away from, but in line with the area to be stitched. Your stitching will cover the tail of the thread on the back.   For example, it your start stitch is at the top right, the knot should be towards the bottom left.  This will allow your stitching to cover the tail.  The knot can be cut off once it is secured by several rows of stitching.

Another example is to place the knot with a long tail (2 -3 inches) on top of the canvas away from the area to stitch. Your start stitch is top right and your knot can be to the right or left.  After you have stitched several rows, cut off the knot, thread the tail into your needle and tuck it either vertically or horizontally into your stitched area.

Important.  Ending threads in basketweave should always be buried horizontally or vertically - never on the diagonal.  Basketweave is a tight diagonal stitch. If you run your needle and thread through the back of the Basketweave on the diagonal it will cause a very noticeable "Dimple" line on the front of your canvas. 

Also, if the thread size allows you to switch to a smaller needle when ending threads it will have less disturbance on the front of the canvas.

Next blog we will discuss two more starting and ending methods. "Pin Tuck - L" stitch and the "Bargello Tuck - Lock  stitch".

Until next time, Happy Stitching!

Alice