It is not necessary when you have another seam crossing over it.

I don't backstitch. I learned many years ago to reduce my stitch length (0.5) or so when starting and ending certain seams.

[QUOTE=Rhonda K;8297736]I can press a button on the machine for a lock-stitch.

I have heard of a machine that back-stitches for five stitches. That is ridiculous. That would probably no longer be on the seam line and would add way too much bulk.

This is also what I do. Like Rhoda K. if I remember my machine will do it. I do like using the thread cutter & then I don't have to remember.:D

I backstitch, mostly from habit. Momma taught me to sew when I was around 10 or so and she emphasized how important it was. And sine I sewed clothes, toys, pillowcases, you name it, long before I started quilting, it's now a habit, so I do it. Also the time or two I decided to skip it, I regretted it. To each their own.

I'm the same as Maryb119 & AnnT - I just do it automatically - I only do 2 possibly 3 stitches. I have used leader enders when the fabric is fine or thin to prevent the beginning edge of the seam from getting swallowed into the needleplate hole. It adds weight to the beginnig so that the bobbin thread doesn't pull the fabric down. Never thought of using it to stop backstitching errors- will have to try it.