fray check tip
 

sometimes i just can't get that thread to go through the eye of the needle.

sometimes i will put Fray Check on the end of the thread - let it dry - and then it seems like the thread is more cooperative about going through the eye of the needle instead of beside it.

stiffening the thread is also helpful when threading my old sergers.

Great tip...thanks. I've found that if I lick the eye of the needle first the thread seems to go in easier. I do the same thing with earrings. If I lick the post of the earring it goes in my ear better. (Maybe this is more info than anyone needs to know...:D)

Osewme you are too funny but I learned the same trick but was warned to be careful when doing the sewing machine needle. Sharon

I cut the end of my thread on an angle and it seems to go thru the eye of the needle better but thank you for your tip also.

Also, running your thread across a beeswax or any cheap candle can make threading so much easier. A piece of beeswax for this purpose is available for not much, and you only need an ounce or two is enough to last you many years. I keep ir in a baggie to avoid threads, dust, pet hair etc. from sticking to it. It lives in the drawer of my sewing desk. Handy for hand or machine needles.

Thanks for the tip, great that it works!

I use my glue stick instead of fray check.

I found I was holding the thread too far from the end of the thread. When I hold it less than 1/8" from the end of the thread, it is easier to thread the needle.

Same here! It works especially well for specialty threads used in embroidery as well. Especially the multi stranded ones like Wonderfil's dazzle and Superior Razzle Dazzle. I have gotten into the habit that as soon as I cut off my piece of thread I run the spool thread end across my glue stick so it is dry and ready to go when I am.

Never thought of using a glue stick. Thank you for the suggestions.

Sometimes that thread is just plain uncooperative by itself.

Great Tip to add some stiffening. I also wet the needle and the thread.

A few more things that work. Glue, clear nail polish, hairspray.

I put chap stick on my lips when doing hand sewing and run the thread between my lips. Helps threading the needle.

I usually have no problem threading needles. I cut the thread at an angle and in it goes. I'm going to make a note of some of y'alls solutions in case my eyes get weaker. :)

Thanks so much for these! I am finding the hole on the 70 needle hard to see, especially threading left to right.

hugs,
charlotte

I do put a piece of paper under the fray check when soaking a thread. That stuff is nasty if it gets on furniture or carpeting .

Some of the other suggestions are much better than Fray Check for stiffening that thread. Thank you!

Talking about old eyes, I keep a small square of white index card under my sewing mat to hold behind the needle hole. I also cut the thread--don't know if it's at an angle or not. Seems to work for these tired eyes.

Wow! Great suggestions that I never thought about. Thank you.

A little Elmers school glue does the same thing too

I also use a piece of an index card behind the needle so I can see the eye better.