How to Tie a Sewing Knot

I taught a quick sewing class to some co-workers (day job) and I started with hand sewing. One of the first things I discovered was their inability to tie a knot. Although this is an easy task (if you know what to do) it can be difficult if you don’t know where to start. This post on “How to Tie a Sewing Knot” will give you two options for getting the job done!

To tie off the back end of the thread, there are a few options. Option one is to tie several overhand knots and option two is wrapping the thread around the needle. Either of these methods are super easy and make tying a knot for hand sewing really simple.

Both quickly bring a knot to the end of the thread with no slipping. Try both methods and decide which one works best for you. I prefer the needle loop option because it brings the knot to the end of thread neatly.

Tie a Sewing Knot Option 1 – Overhand Knot Loop the end of the thread around your forefinger a couple of times. Roll the loops into a tight bundle with your thumb, then slip the whole bundle off your finger. Grip the bundled loops with one hand and tug the long end of the thread tight with the other. This should pull the loose bundle into a tight knot.

Tie a Sewing Knot Option 2 – Needle Looping Knot Start with a threaded needle. Hold the end of the thread and the needle in the same hand, creating a loop.

Hold both thread and needle with your thumb and index finger, near the eye of the needle. Aim for 1/4 inch tail hanging down.

Wind the thread around the needle three to five times, using your other hand. The more you wind, the bigger the knot.

Move your grasp on the needle/thread so you’re also pinching the wrapped thread. Hold the needle with your other hand, and pull it away from the wrapped thread. This will slide the thread onto the rest of thread.

Continue pulling the needle, until the thread has all been pulled through the coil to the end of the thread. You have a knot.

If your knot is not large enough, just repeat the process.