RedGarnet222

I also use the beeswax when hand sewing/quilting. It is truly a wonder to help keep the thread from knotting. Two other things I will let you know is; don't cut the threaded needle strand any longer than 3/4 of your arm's length and while sewing allow the thread to lay upon the work and not dangle. This helps a lot.

A little plastic beeswax holder can be purchased at any fabric store. It has open spaces you draw the thread though.

mckwilter

I use Thread Heaven when I do handwork, and I let the piece dangle to untwist the threads, but it wasn't until I read something somewhere and realized that I was givng my needle a little twist as I pulled it from the fabric, causing the thread to twist, that I realized I was the problem. So I started trying not to twist the needle, and now I don't have as many problems. Of course, if I don't do handwork for a while, and start on a new project, I have the same problem until I have the "duh" moment and pay attention to what I'm doing.

bearisgray

After threading the needle, I will look at the two ends - one usually seems to twist more than the other - I put the knot on the end that seems to have fewer twists.

scrapinmema

My mother taught me to use a a block of bees wax. Thread your needle and pull through the wax. Always works for me.

woody

What thread are you using? I love the Mettler silk finish thread for hand piecing, I find it doesn't knot as much.

kayluvs2quilt

I swear by Thread Heaven - keep my thread length no longer than my arm will reach (I have short arms) - and Knot the end you Kut.

Dolphyngyrl

shorter length of thread and beeswax(or thread heaven). If you make the length too long it knots up really bad. I finally read that somewhere and started using shorter threads when binding, way easier, less knots

ShelleyCS

I agree that Bees wax does it as does a bar if soap.

charlottequilts

I hope you feel better soon. Your determination is inspiring.

Hugs,
Charlotte

Annie Pearl

Don't cut your thread too long. Keep it about the length that would be from your elbow to your hand. You can let your thread dangle or make a habit to turn your your needle counterclockwise between your fingers after you pull through.