How to Thread a Needle: Tips, Tricks and Threaders That Help

Have you ever struggled with how to thread a needle?

You're not the only one!

Threading a needle can be a real pain, especially if you have vision or hand dexterity issues. And it doesn't get easier with time — if anything, it gets more frustrating because you know you can do everything else just fine.

Luckily, there's a handy tool that can make this task a breeze — the needle threader. This small device can make all the difference in simplifying the threading process.

Before we look at needle threaders, there are some things we need to consider first about how to thread a needle.

Choosing the Right Needle Size

With embroidery needles, one size does not fit all.

Different fabrics require different needle sizes to ensure the best results. So, how do you make sure you are using the most appropriate needle? Let's look closer.

Some of my embroidery needle collection!

Consider the fabric

The first step is to consider the fabric you'll be stitching on. Fabrics vary in thickness and density, and the needle you choose should match these characteristics.

• For lightweight fabrics like silk or organza, opt for a finer needle size, such as 9 or 10.
• For medium-weight fabrics like cotton or linen, a size 11 or 12 needle will work well.
• And for heavier fabrics like denim or canvas, go for a larger needle size, such as 14 or 16.

Crewel, embroidery, chenille, tapestry and milliner's needles

Consider the thread

The thread you'll be using also influences the needle size — and this is one I learned the hard way. I once spent a frustrating half hour trying to thread pearl cotton through a size 10 crewel needle. The thread kept bunching up at the eye and I couldn't work out why, until I realised the needle was simply too fine for that weight of thread.

As a general rule, thicker threads like pearl cotton or tapestry wool need a larger needle to accommodate their bulk, while finer threads like silk or embroidery floss work best with smaller needle sizes.

But what if you want to use multiple strands of thread? In that case, you need to consider the combined thickness of all the strands together when choosing your needle. Two strands of floss will slip through easily, but try six strands through the same needle and you'll be fighting it the whole way.

Test and Adjust

I always stitch a few test crosses in a corner before I commit to a whole project. It only takes a minute and it's saved me from unpicking more times than I can count.

What you're feeling for is how easily the needle slips through the fabric, whether it leaves a hole that the thread won't fill, and whether you need to push harder than feels comfortable. If any of those things are off, swap the needle before you go any further — it's much easier to change now than twenty stitches in.

The End of the Thread

While it may seem like a minor detail, the condition of your thread can have a significant impact on your threading process.

Trying to push thread with a frayed, unruly end through the eye of a needle is frustrating, time-consuming and can lead to unnecessary stress.

What can you do to make it easier?

Trim the end — Before starting a new thread, take a moment to trim the end with sharp scissors. This will remove any frayed or uneven parts, leaving you with a clean and manageable end.

Use a Thread Conditioner — If you're working with a delicate or prone-to-fraying thread, consider using a thread conditioner. These products, such as beeswax or thread gloss, help to strengthen the thread and prevent fraying. Run the thread through the conditioner a few times, and you'll have a smoother, more resilient end.

Pearl cotton in front of my beeswax circle

Introducing the Needle Threader

A basic needle threader is a nifty little tool that comprises a thin wire loop attached to a handle.

It's incredibly easy to use.

Just insert the wire loop through the eye of the needle, then place the end of the thread through the loop. With a gentle pull, voila! The thread effortlessly passes through the eye, saving you time and energy.

How to thread a needle using a wire needle threader

1

Insert the Wire Loop

Hold the needle threader by its handle, with the wire loop facing upward. Insert the wire loop through the eye of the needle, ensuring that it goes all the way through.

Push the threader through the eye and drop the thread through the wire

2

Thread and Pull Through

Pass the end of your thread through the wire loop, leaving a tail hanging out. Then carefully pull the needle threader back through the eye of the needle, bringing the thread with it. Voila! Your needle is now threaded and ready to go.

Pulling the threader and thread through the needle eye

Using a basic wire loop needle threader takes the frustration out of learning how to thread a needle. It's a simple yet effective tool that can save you time and spare you from squinting and straining your eyes.

But wait, there's more! In the next section, we'll explore other types of needle threader that take threading to a whole new level of convenience and efficiency.

Threading Troubleshooter

Even with a threader, things don't always go smoothly. I've run into every one of these problems over the years — here's what actually works.

Other Types of Needle Threader

I've tried most of these over the years, and honestly, I keep coming back to the basic wire loop for everyday stitching. But the automatic threader has been a real lifesaver on days when my hands aren't cooperating — and the one with the built-in LED light is brilliant for evening stitching when the overhead light just isn't enough.

Some of these come with handy extras too, like built-in thread cutters or little storage compartments for needles. Here are the main types you'll come across.

Time to Get Your Own Needle Threader?

So, next time you struggle with how to thread a needle, reach for a needle threader and enjoy a stress-free stitching session.

Oh, and in case you were wondering, my needle-felted frog helped me out for the photos of using the needle threader by holding the needle still. Without this help, I would have required three hands!

For more on needle felting click this link.