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How to Thread An Embroidery Needle (Easy + Foolproof!)

We’ve all been there before: you think you’ve gotten the thread through the needle but it ends up getting caught! If you’re having trouble, this post will show you how to thread an embroidery needle 2 easy ways that will prevent a snag from happening!

Disclaimer: This post has some affiliate links in it. I receive a small commission from purchases at no additional cost to the buyer. I only recommend products I would use and love and that are of good quality. All opinions are my own!

Embroidery thread can be challenging to get through the needle. This is especially true for stranded embroidery floss, because it is made up of 6 individual strands of thread. This makes it easier for single or multiple strands to get caught in the process of threading your needle.

How to Thread An Embroidery Needle

how to thread an embroidery needle
  • Before you start, the first thing you’ll want to do is make sure that you are using the correct size needle in relation to the size or number of strands of thread that you are using.
  • Trim the end of the thread so you have clean cut strands. In the first picture, each strand is somewhat frayed which could cause the thread to get snagged.
  • Once you’ve trimmed the end of the thread, moisten it with your mouth, water or thread conditioner.
  • Then, pinch the thread in between my fingers so it becomes flat. This makes it easier to thread through the eye of the needle.
  • While you are pinching it in between your thumb and forefinger, place the thread through the eye of the needle. When you can visibly see that all of the strands of thread are through the eye, pull the thread through.

Using A Needle Threader

how to thread a needle using a needle threader

Another option to thread a needle is by using a needle threader. This is a great method to use if you have a hard time seeing the needle and thread. One thing to keep in mind is that you’ll need to choose a needle that has an eye large enough to allow for the thread to be doubled up in order to pass it through with a needle threader.

  • Once you’ve selected the correct size needle, place the wire end of the needle threader through the eye of the needle.
  • Then place the thread through the wire loop of the threader.
  • Pull the threader and the thread through the needle.
  • Hold onto the tail of thread that you just pulled through and allow the needle threader to drop off the other end of the thread.

General Tips

  • Select a needle that is the correct size for the size and amount of strands of thread you are using. If you are using to small of a needle, it will be nearly impossible to thread the needle!
  • Trim the end of the thread so that there isn’t any fraying.
  • Moisten the end of the thread before threading it through the eye.
  • Try using thread conditioner – this will smooth out the thread and keep the strands together.
  • Selecting high quality embroidery needles will make it easier to thread. Some needles are cheaply made and may have imperfections in the eye that make it easier for the thread to snag on.
  • Try using a magnifying glass so you can see better.

I hope you enjoyed these tips! If you’d like to learn even more about basic embroidery techniques, check out my beginner’s guide to embroidery.

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