A seamstress with 60 years of experience reveals the trick to stress-free needle threading. Learn how to use a Q-tip and other practical techniques to make sewing easier and faster.
Threading a needle is one of the most common tasks in sewing, but it can become frustrating, especially when the thread doesn’t seem to want to go through the eye. A seamstress with 60 years of experience shared an ingenious trick that makes this process quick and easy, even for those without perfect eyesight or impeccable dexterity. With the help of common tools, such as a Q-tip, threading the needle will no longer be a problem.
The improved traditional method
If you are used to trying and trying again to thread the thread through the eye of the needle, follow these steps for immediate results:
Prepare the thread and needle: cut the end of the thread with sharp scissors to make it straight and even.
Dampen the thread with a Q-tip: Lightly wet a Q-tip with water or saliva and swipe the end of the thread. This trick helps compact the fibers and keep them from fraying.
Bring the thread closer to the eye: hold the thread as close to the eye of the needle as possible, holding it firmly between your thumb and forefinger.
The seamstress’s trick: Q-tip as a guide
This simple item you already have at home can become your best ally:
Take a Q-tip and cut off one end of cotton.Insert the cut end into the eye of the needle to create a sort of “bridge.”
Pass the thread through the cotton bridge and then pull it out. The thread will be perfectly positioned in the eye effortlessly.
Other useful tricks for threading the needle
Use a needle threader: a small tool available at haberdashers that simplifies the process.
Light the eye: stand near a strong light source to better see the needle and thread.
Choose needles with a wide eye: ideal for those who have difficulty with standard needles.
With these simple tricks, threading a needle will be a breeze. The Q-tip trick, along with improved traditional techniques, is a practical and affordable solution for everyone. With a little patience and the right tools, even the most difficult sewing jobs become easy.
