Hand Embroidery, how do you secure your threads when starting & finishing
 

I tie a knot, but wonder if this will hold up. I am doing it the same way I did years ago, I have not used the pillowcases I did, should dig them out. What is the best way? Thanks.

I weave my ends into the stitches on the back of the work.

I start with a knot and end with a couple of knots. I like the idea of weaving the thread back through the stitching. I'll have to try that.

I also tie knots. It makes me feel more secure. Once I have some threads on the back I also weave the current thread thru them as well as the knot. I keep it small but secure.

I forgot to say, after I tie the knot I weave it back and forth a few stitches too. I would have a hard time not tieing a knot. I like to go over each block and check for looser stitches and if I should see, because I have, I weave thread to pull it tighter. By the responses, am doing what most of you are doing. Good

When begining, if using 2 threads, do one thread twice as long as you would use. Fold in half, now 2 threads, leave the loop end the longer one when you start the first stitch. Put the needle through the loop on the back. Thread is caught ,without a knot. If using 3 threads do the same, then add the third thread, leaving the end at the loop a bit long.

I will try this, thanks. I'm doing a redwork right now with lots of "knots."

I see what you are saying about using two strands, I only use the one with the perle thread. Wish there was an easier way, but think I will keep doing what I have been doing. And hope it stays put after washing. Thanks for all of your ideas.

If I'm embroidering something that will have to withstand wear and tear, like a pillowcase, I make a knot. If it's a picture or something that'll have a backing, I weave the ends into the stitches.

I do knots. I am always afraid it will come out if I don't. At the end I weave and knot. LOL