7 Easy Ways to End a Sewing Machine Stitch

Methods for Ending Sewing Machine Stitches

Method 1: Secure the Stitch (Reverse Stitch)

Materials:

Sewing machine
Thread
Needle

Instructions:

Step 1: Adjust the Sewing Machine Settings

Set the stitch length to the shortest setting (usually 1.5mm or 2mm) and deactivate the automatic thread trimmer feature.

Step 2: Position the Needle

After sewing your desired seam, lift the presser foot and position the needle down at the end of the stitch line.

Step 3: Reverse Stitch

Engage the reverse stitching function and sew a few stitches (about 3-5) in the opposite direction of the original seam. The stitches will create a zigzag pattern.

Step 4: Trim the Threads

Once you have sewn the reverse stitches, lift the presser foot and cut the threads close to the fabric.

This method is particularly effective for preventing the seam from unraveling and is commonly used in garments, upholstery, and other projects where durability is important.

Table: Tips for Securing a Stitch with Reverse Stitch

Tip	Description
Use a shorter stitch length	Creates a stronger hold
Sew a few more reverse stitches	Provides extra security
Trim threads close to the fabric	Prevents fraying

Tying Off Thread Tails

To ensure the longevity and durability of your sewing projects, it is crucial to properly tie off the thread tails. This simple yet effective method will prevent the stitches from unraveling and maintain the integrity of your seams.

To begin, sew a few extra stitches beyond the desired stitching point.

Next, lift the presser foot and pull the threads to the back of the fabric.

Hold both threads together and make a small loop with the right-hand thread. Bring the left-hand thread through the loop and pull it tight.

Repeat steps 3 and 4 to create a second knot.

Trim any excess thread tails, leaving about 1/4 inch of thread remaining.

Knotting the Thread: A Permanent and Strong Option

Knotting the thread is a traditional and effective method to end a sewing machine stitch permanently and securely. This technique is particularly useful when sewing fabrics that tend to fray or unravel, such as knit fabrics or sheer fabrics. Knotting the thread creates a small, tight knot that prevents the thread from pulling out and undoing the stitch.

Steps to Knot the Thread:

Finish the Stitch: Sew a few extra stitches beyond the end of the seam to provide some slack.
Bring the Needle to the Top: Raise the presser foot and turn the handwheel or use the up/down buttons on the machine to bring the needle to the top of the fabric.
Hold the Threads: Gently pull the top and bottom threads together, leaving a small tail of thread.
Wrap the Threads: Wrap the tail of the top thread around the bottom thread twice. Thread the end of the top thread through the loop created by the first wrap and pull it tight.
Cut the Threads: Trim the excess tail of the top thread, leaving a short end that is knotted securely.

Pros	Cons
Permanent and strong hold	Can create a small bump on the fabric
Prevents fraying and unraveling	Requires a bit more time and effort

Knotting the thread is a simple but effective technique that provides a lasting and secure ending to your sewing machine stitches. When used appropriately, it can help to prevent seam failure and ensure the durability of your sewing projects.

Finishing with a Loop: A Decorative and Functional Technique

Finishing a seam with a loop is not only decorative but also functional. It prevents fraying and adds a touch of embellishment to your project. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Double Back

Sew a few stitches in reverse to create a double back at the end of the seam. This will prevent the seam from coming undone.

Step 2: Lift the Needle

With the needle down, lift the presser foot and pull the fabric out to create a small loop.

Step 3: Drop the Needle

Drop the presser foot and sew one stitch into the loop.

Step 4: Pivot and Stitch

Pivot the fabric 90 degrees and stitch a few stitches perpendicular to the original seam line.

Step 5: Sew a Bar Tack

Sew a bar tack by stitching back and forth over the loop several times. This will create a secure and decorative finish.

Type of fabric	Thread	Loop size
Lightweight fabrics	Fine thread	Small loop
Heavyweight fabrics	Strong thread	Large loop

Reverse Sewing: Reversing the Needle to Lock the Stitch

Reverse sewing is a technique used to securely lock the stitches at the end of a seam. This involves reversing the direction of the needle for a few stitches, creating a strong and durable finish. To perform reverse sewing:

Sew the seam up to the desired length.
Stop sewing and leave the needle in the fabric.
Turn the handwheel or press the reverse button on the machine.
Sew backward for 2-3 stitches.
Turn the wheel or press the forward button to sew over the reverse stitches.

Sew for a short distance (1-2 inches) to secure the lock.

By following these steps, you can effectively lock the stitches and prevent them from unraveling.

Advantages of Reverse Sewing:	Disadvantages of Reverse Sewing:
– Ensures a strong and durable stitch. – Prevents stitches from unraveling.	– May create a slight ridge in the fabric. – Can be time-consuming if used excessively.

Securing Stitches with Heat: Bonding Thread Ends for Added Strength

Choosing the Right Method

The best method for securing stitches with heat depends on the type of fabric and thread used. For heat-resistant materials like polyester and nylon, you can use a hot iron or heat gun. For more delicate fabrics like silk or satin, it’s better to use a lighter touch, such as a hair dryer or lighter.

Preparing the Thread Ends

Before securing the stitches, trim any excess thread ends to about ¼ inch. Then, separate the individual strands of thread and lay them flat.

Using a Hot Iron

Place the fabric over a pressing cloth or ironing board.
Set the iron to the appropriate heat setting for the fabric.
Apply gentle pressure to the thread ends for a few seconds.
Remove the iron and allow the fabric to cool completely.

Using a Heat Gun

Hold the heat gun about 6 inches away from the thread ends.
Apply heat for a few seconds, or until the thread ends start to fuse together.
Remove the heat gun and allow the fabric to cool.

Using a Hair Dryer

Set the hair dryer to a low heat setting.
Hold the hair dryer about 1 foot away from the thread ends.
Apply heat for a few minutes, or until the thread ends start to bond.
Remove the hair dryer and allow the fabric to cool.

Using a Lighter

Hold the lighter about 1 inch away from the thread ends.
Quickly pass the flame over the thread ends, but be careful not to scorch the fabric.
Remove the lighter and allow the fabric to cool.

Additional Tips

* For extra strength, use a clear nail polish or fabric glue to seal the thread ends after heating them.
* If the thread ends are still fraying, you can trim them closer to the fabric and re-heat them.
* To prevent scorching, always use a pressing cloth or ironing board when using heat.
* For delicate fabrics, it’s best to test the heat setting on a small scrap of fabric before applying it to the main garment.

How To End Sewing Machine Stitch

To end a sewing machine stitch, follow these steps:

Sew a few stitches in place.
Hold the threads and pull them to the back of the fabric.
Tie the threads together in a knot.
Cut the threads close to the knot.

Here is a more detailed explanation of each step:

1. Sew a few stitches in place: This will help to secure the threads and prevent them from coming untied.

2. Hold the threads and pull them to the back of the fabric: This will create a loop of thread on the back of the fabric.

3. Tie the threads together in a knot: This will secure the loop of thread and prevent it from coming undone.

4. Cut the threads close to the knot: This will create a neat and tidy finish.