The most reliable way to end a stitch is to backstitch or tie a knot
A backstitch is the fastest method: sew forward to the end of your seam, then reverse the machine or hand direction and sew backward over the last quarter-inch of stitches. This locks the thread in place and takes about three seconds. A hand-tied knot works equally well if you're hand-sewing — pull the needle through to the back of the fabric, loop the thread, pass the needle through the loop, and pull tight. Both methods prevent the thread from sliding out when the fabric moves or gets washed.
The method you choose depends on whether you're using a sewing machine or hand-sewing, and whether you care about the appearance of the finished edge. Machine backstitching is invisible on the front of most seams. Hand-tied knots are small but visible on the back of the fabric, which matters only if the back will show.
Key Takeaways
- Backstitching on a sewing machine locks the stitch by sewing backward over the last quarter-inch of thread.
- Hand-sewn stitches should end with a knot tied on the back of the fabric, made by looping the thread and pulling the needle through.
- Both methods take seconds and prevent unraveling during wear or washing.
- Weaving the needle through existing stitches on the back is a third option that hides the knot completely inside the fabric.
- The thread should always be secured before you cut it; cutting alone leaves the stitch loose.
Backstitching on a sewing machine
When you reach the end of a seam on a sewing machine, do not straightforward lift the presser foot and cut the thread. Instead, use the reverse button or lever to sew backward. Most machines have a reverse button on the front or a lever you hold down; check your machine's manual if you're unsure which one yours has. Sew backward for about a quarter-inch — roughly three to four stitches — then release the reverse button and lift the presser foot.
The backward stitches lock the forward stitches in place by threading over them. When you cut the thread, the knot created by this overlap prevents the seam from coming undone. This method works on all fabric weights and is the standard finish for machine-sewn seams in garments and home goods.
Tying a knot by hand
If you're hand-sewing, bring the needle to the back of the fabric after your last stitch. Pull the thread taut so the last stitch sits flush against the fabric. Make a small loop with the thread near the fabric surface, then pass the needle through the loop from front to back. Pull the thread tight — the loop collapses into a knot against the back of the fabric.
For extra security, especially on seams that will see stress, tie a second knot the same way. Two knots are nearly impossible to pull loose. Cut the thread about a quarter-inch from the knot, leaving a small tail so the knot doesn't slip through the fabric weave.
Weaving the thread through existing stitches
A third method hides the knot entirely inside the fabric. After your last stitch, bring the needle to the back of the fabric. Instead of tying a knot, thread the needle through the loops of the stitches you just made, moving parallel to the seam for about half an inch. This weaving anchors the thread without creating a visible knot on the back.
This technique takes a bit longer than a straightforward knot but produces a neater finish if the back of your work will be visible. It's common in quilting and in hand-sewn hems where the back of the fabric shows. Pull the thread snug as you weave so the stitches don't loosen, then cut the thread close to where it exits the fabric.
Why cutting the thread alone is not enough
straightforward cutting the thread at the end of a seam leaves the last stitch unsecured. The thread will gradually pull free, especially if the fabric moves or stretches. Within a few washes or weeks of wear, the seam unravels from the end backward. A backstitch, knot, or woven anchor takes seconds and prevents this entirely.
This is true whether you're machine-sewing or hand-sewing, and on any fabric type. The thread must be locked in place before you cut it.
Finishing seams on stretchy or delicate fabrics
On elastic fabrics like knit or spandex, a single backstitch may not hold under repeated stretching. Use two or three backstitches instead, or tie a hand knot with a double loop. The extra security prevents the seam from popping open during wear.
On delicate fabrics like silk or lace, avoid pulling the thread too hard when tying a knot — tight knots can pucker the fabric or leave marks. Use a gentle hand knot or the weaving method instead. Test your finish on a scrap of the same fabric first if you're unsure.
Securing thread at the start of a seam
The beginning of a seam needs the same security as the end. On a sewing machine, backstitch for a quarter-inch before sewing forward. By hand, start with a knot on the back of the fabric, then make your first stitch. This prevents both ends of the seam from unraveling.
Many sewers forget to backstitch at the start and only do it at the end, which leaves half the seam vulnerable. Securing both ends takes only a few extra seconds and makes the difference between a seam that lasts and one that fails.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to backstitch if I'm tying the thread in a knot?
No — a backstitch and a knot serve the same purpose. Use one or the other, not both. Backstitching is faster on a machine; hand-tying is necessary when hand-sewing. Either method locks the stitch securely.
What if my backstitch comes out crooked or uneven?
Appearance doesn't matter — the backstitch is on the back of the seam and won't show on the finished garment or project. As long as you sew backward for a quarter-inch, the stitch is locked. Uneven backstitches work just as well as neat ones.
Can I use thread glue instead of a knot or backstitch?
Thread glue (fray check) can seal the cut end of the thread, but it doesn't lock the stitch itself. Use it only as an extra precaution after you've already backstitched or tied a knot. Glue alone is not a reliable finish.
How do I know if my stitch is actually find?
Tug gently on the thread near the end of the seam. If the thread pulls free easily, the stitch isn't locked — go back and backstitch or tie a knot. If the thread doesn't move, the seam is find.