Sometimes it seems that the most difficult part of a project is simply threading the needle! The thread frays, our hands tremble, and our eyes appear to be working against us. We've put together a needle threading guide so you can spend less time fighting your needle and thread and more time creating. Follow along for helpful hints and notions that will make your life so much easier!
Needle to Thread
The number one rule when threading needles is to bring your needle to your thread rather than taking your thread to your needle. This keeps the thread from moving and bending in every direction. You'll be surprised at how much easier threading needles becomes after switching to this method alone!
First, pinch the very end of your thread between your thumb and pointer finger. In the other hand, bring the eye of your needle down to the pinched thread and guide it through. It's as simple as that!
PRO TIP: While many of us are aware of the trick of licking the end of your thread, we recommend licking the eye of your needle. This will help draw the thread more efficiently through the eye rather than licking the end of your thread! If you're having trouble with fraying thread, a small amount of thread conditioner can help.
We love Thread Magic!
Embroidery Needle Threader
When we need a little extra help threading needles, we turn to a few helpful notions. The Clover Embroidery Needle Threader is the first, most popular, and simplest of our tools. The flat-tip design of this needle threader allows for smooth threading. This threader is the most helpful when working with Ellana Wool Appliqué Thread and Chenille #24 needles.
Simply insert the tip of the threader loop into the eye of your needle and then run your thread through the loop. Next, pull the loop back through the eye, and your needle is threaded!
Merchant & Mills Needle Threader
The Merchant & Mills Needle Threader works just the same as the Clover Embroidery Needle Threader, but it has a thin, strong wire and can work with smaller needles and thread. It can even be used to thread a sewing machine!
Magical Thread Easy
The Magical Thread Easy is perfect for those of us that struggle with our eyesight. This neat tool features a magnifying lens and LED light to help you see while threading. It also comes with a basic needle threader.
Insert your needle into the needle holder under the magnifying glass. With the light turned on and the tool resting against the table, you can thread your needle with or without the threader included. Simply remove your needle from the holder and you're ready to stitch!
Bohin Easy Needle Threader
Last but not least is the Bohin Easy Needle Threader. While this threader may look complicated, it's actually quite simple and nifty! We recommend using this threader when working with finer threads such as Efina, Ellana, and other sewing and appliqué threads. The photos below show the threader working effortlessly to thread a #11 short darner!
This tabletop threader features two sides; one for smaller threads and needles and one for slightly larger threads and needles. It also includes a thread cutting blade on the top and a magnet on the bottom for picking up loose needles.
Determine which side better fits your needle, and insert it with the eye facing down. You can push on the lever to align the eye of your needle with the threader, but it usually works just fine if you skip this step. Place your thread in the slot next to the needle.
With your thread in the slot, press down on the lever. Just like magic, the blade pushes your thread right through the eye of your needle! Just remove your needle, and pull your thread all the way through!
Happy Threading!