How to tie a knot after sewing: techniques for machine and hand stitches

Finishing a seam is like putting a period in a sentence: without it, the whole job can fall apart. Even a perfectly straight stitch will not hold the fabric if the thread is not secured correctly. But how tie a knot after sewingso that it does not come undone during the first wash or tension? It turns out there are tricks to this - and they differ for handwork, sewing machine and even type of fabric.

Many beginning tailors face the problem that the knot is either too big and ruins the backing, or small and slips through the stitches. And some people don’t even know that modern sewing machines have automatic thread securing — you just need to configure the function correctly. In this article we will look at all the methods - from the classic hand knot to professional techniques for delicate fabrics.

Before moving on to the instructions, remember: the quality of the knot depends not only on the technique, but also on the thread. Synthetic threads (polyester, nylon) glide more than cotton threads, so they require additional turns. And for thick fabrics like denim or leather, special knots with double fastening are useful.

Why the knot unties: 3 main mistakes

Even experienced craftsmen sometimes encounter knots unraveling. Most often this happens due to three reasons:

🔹 Thread ends too short. If you leave less than 2–3 cm, the knot will not have time to tighten properly. The optimal length for fastening is 3–5 cm (depends on the thickness of the fabric).

🔹 Incorrect tension. The knot should be tight, but not overtightened - otherwise the thread may break. This is especially true for stretchy fabrics like knitwear.

🔹 Inappropriate node type. For example, a simple knot (like on shoelaces) is not suitable for slippery threads - it will definitely come undone. For such cases you need surgical knot or double sea.

⚠️ Attention: If you sew on a machine and use the automatic thread cutter, check to see if it is cutting the ends too short. Some models Janome and Brother this setting can be adjusted in the menu Seam settings → Thread length.

Another common problem is knots slipping through stitches. This happens if the thread is too thin for the fabric (for example, silk thread on linen). In such cases it will help double knot or a drop of fabric glue (but this is a last resort).

How to tie a knot by hand: 3 reliable ways

Hand sewing requires a special approach to securing the thread. Here are three proven methods that work even on slippery fabrics:

🧵 Classic double knot (suitable for most fabrics):

1. Make the last stitch and bring the needle to the wrong side.
2. Wrap the thread around the needle 2-3 times (the thinner the fabric, the more turns).
3. Pull the needle up to form a loop and tighten it at the base.
4. Repeat the action again to be sure.

⚓ Surgical knot (for slippery threads and elastic fabrics):

1. Make the first loop as in a classic knot, but do not tighten it all the way.
2. Make a second loop in the opposite direction (if the first one was twisted clockwise, the second one was twisted counterclockwise).
3. Tighten both loops at the same time.

🔗 Figure eight knot (for thick threads and denim):

How to make a figure eight knot

Fold the thread into a loop, thread the ends through it twice, forming a figure 8, then tighten. This knot does not slip and can withstand strong tension.

To make the task easier, you can use special tools:

• 🧲 Magnet for needles - holds the needle while you tie a knot.
• 🔍 Illuminated magnifying glass - helps to see stitches on dark fabrics.
• ✂️ Curved scissors - for neat trimming of ends.

⚠️ Attention: If you sew silk threads, never tighten the knot with wet hands - moisture weakens the fibers and the thread may break during the first wash.

Securing thread on a sewing machine: step-by-step instructions

Modern sewing machines (eg. Singer Quantum or Juki HZL) have an automatic thread fastening function, but it does not always work perfectly. Here's how to secure a seam manually if the machine fails:

1️⃣ Reverse method:

• 🔄 Complete the seam and do not cut the thread.
• 🖱️ Move the reverse lever (or press the Backstitch on electronic models).
• 🔢 Go 3-4 stitches back along the seam.
• ✂️ Cut the thread, leaving a tail 2–3 cm.

2️⃣ Manual knot on a machine (if reversing doesn't help):

• 🧵 Pull the bottom thread to the wrong side (by gently pulling the top thread).
• 🔄 Tie a double knot using both threads (top and bottom).
• ✂️ Trim off the excess, leaving 1–1.5 cm.

3️⃣ Bartack for stretch fabrics:

On some machines (for example, Bernina 5 Series) there is a function "automatic node", which ties the thread itself. To activate it:

1. Finish the seam.
2. Press and hold the button Thread Cut (usually indicated by scissors).
3. The machine will sew a securing stitch and trim the thread.

Fabric type	Recommended fastening method	Thread tail length
Cotton, linen	Reverse stitch (3–4 stitches)	2 cm
Knitwear, stretch	Hand knot + fabric stretch	3 cm
Denim, leather	Double reverse	1.5 cm
Silk, chiffon	Surgical knot	4 cm

Secrets of professionals: how to hide a knot on the wrong side

In high-quality sewing, knots should not be visible from either the front or back side. Here are some professional techniques:

🕳️ Knot in the thickness of the fabric (for thin materials):

1. Bring the needle inside out, but not all the way - leave a small loop.
2. Pass the needle through this loop and tighten the knot inside fabrics.
3. Cut the thread as close to the surface as possible.

🧵 Invisible fastener (for hems and edges):

• Make the last stitch and bring the thread to the wrong side.
• Bring the needle under the nearest seam stitch, creating a loop.
• Thread the thread through this loop and tighten.
• Repeat 2-3 times to be sure.

✨ Using fabric glue (extreme case):

If the knot does not want to stick (for example, on slippery satin), you can apply a drop glue "Moment Crystal" inside out. But remember:

• 🚫 Do not use superglue - it is hard and can damage the fabric.
• 🔍 Apply glue only per node, and not on the fabric itself.
• 🧼 After drying, check if there are any sticky marks left.

⚠️ Attention: Fabric glue may discolor delicate materials (such as white chiffon). Always test it on cuttings before use.

Common problems and how to avoid them

Even experienced tailors sometimes have problems with knots. Here are the most common problems and their solutions:

🔴 The knot slips through the fabric:

This happens if the thread is too thin or the fabric is loose (for example, knitted fabric). Solution:

• Use thicker thread (eg №40 instead of №60).
• Do double knot with an additional turn.
• Place a small piece of non-woven fabric under the knot.

🔴 The thread breaks when the knot is tightened:

The culprits are either a dull needle or too much tension. What to do:

• 🔪 Replace the needle (for thin fabrics use 70/10, for dense ones - 90/14).
• 🧴 Rub the thread with wax or a special thread conditioner.
• 🔄 Tighten the knot smoothly, without jerking.

🔴 Knots visible on the front side:

This is a common problem when sewing thin fabrics (cambric, organza). How to hide:

• 🧵 Use thin needle and thread to match the fabric.
• 🔍 Tie a knot between layers fabric (for example, in a seam).
• ✂️ Cut the thread at an angle of 45° - this way the tip is less noticeable.

🔴 The machine does not secure the thread:

If the reverse function does not work:

• 🔧 Check if the shuttle is clogged with threads.
• 📖 Update the machine firmware (relevant for computerized models).
• 🔄 Manually turn the handwheel towards you 1-2 turns before starting sewing.

How to secure a thread without a knot: alternative methods

Sometimes knots are impossible or undesirable to use - for example, when embroidering or sewing from very thin fabrics. In such cases, alternative methods will help:

🌀 Loop bartack:

This method is often used by embroiderers. How to do:

1. Make the last stitch and bring the thread to the wrong side.
2. Bring the needle under the next 2-3 stitches without piercing the fabric.
3. Cut the thread close to the fabric.

🧶 Chain fastening (for knitted items):

Suitable if you are sewing buttons or decor to knitwear:

1. Make 2-3 small stitches in one place.
2. Bring the thread to the wrong side and cut, leaving 0.5 cm.
3. Fluff the end of the thread with your fingers - the fibers will adhere to the fabric.

🔥 Fusing (for synthetic threads):

Use this method only for 100% polyester thread! Carefully bring the tip of the thread to the flame of the lighter for 1-2 seconds - it will melt and form a small ball that will prevent the knot from coming undone.

⚠️ Attention: Do not use thermal fixing on natural fabrics (cotton, linen, silk) - this may lead to fire or melting of the material!

Video instruction: how to tie a knot in 10 seconds

For clarity, we recommend watching videos from professional tailors. Here's what you should pay attention to:

🎥 Channel "Sewing School from A to Z" (YouTube):

The video shows all the stages - from choosing a thread to the finishing knot. Please note:

• 🕒 Time code 3:45 - surgical knot technique.
• 🕒 7:20 - how to hide a knot in a seam.
• 🕒 10:15 - beginner mistakes.

🎥 Master class from Burda Style:

Here's how to work with different types of fabrics:

• 👗 For dress fabrics (with 4:10).
• 👖 For denim (with 8:30).
• 🧣 For knitwear (with 12:05).

📌 Useful life hack from the video:

If you are sewing by hand and are concerned about the knot coming undone, apply a little to the thread before tying. nail polish (transparent). It will fix the fibers without damaging the fabric.

FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions

Can I use superglue to secure the knot?

No, superglue is not suitable - it makes the thread stiff and brittle. For fabrics, use only special textile glue (for example, UHU Textil or Tear Mender). Apply it pointwise to the knot, not to the fabric itself.

How to tie a knot if the thread is too short?

If the tail is less than 2 cm, you can:

1. Carefully pick up the last stitch with a needle and pull out additional thread.
2. Use tweezers to tighten the mini knot.
3. Secure the thread with glue if no other method is possible.

Why does a sewing machine produce a knot on one side?

This occurs due to uneven tension of the upper and lower threads. Solution:

• Adjust the upper thread tension (usually the dial on the front of the machine).
• Check that the bobbin thread is threaded correctly into the hook.
• Use the same brand and thickness of thread for the top and bottom.

How to secure the thread when cross stitching?

In cross stitch, knots are not used - instead:

1. Fasten the thread under the finished stitches on the wrong side.
2. Use the loop-to-loop method (pull the thread through the last stitch).
3. For metal threads (Lurex), do double fastening.

What should I do if the knot still comes undone after washing?

If the knots do not stay in place after washing, the problem may be:

• Thread quality — cheap threads lose strength when wet. Use polyester threads (for example, Gütermann or Mettler).
• Fabric type - Some synthetic fabrics (for example, polyester) slip. In this case, nodes with additional turns are needed.
• Washing mode - aggressive spin (more 1000 rpm) can loosen knots. Wash items with secured seams on a delicate cycle.