James you aren't the only one that method doesn't work for. I can't get it to work for me either. I get the knot an inch or two from the end. I finally just gave up.

For all of you who can't wrap the thread around your finger and roll it off the finger w/ your thumb....

When you're finished wrapping the thread around your index finger, now you've rolled the thread off your index finger w/ your thumb....Take your middle finger and hold the glob of twisted up thread against your thumb and then pull the needle/thread away, allowing the knot to form while "tightening" everything up???

As you're rolling the thread off your index finger, the thread must twist up, or the knot won't form.

James,
I've never been able to get that knot over the finger thing to work out. Try the quilter's knot that several people have described here. That's the one that works best for me.

Rob

I was going to recommend the quilter's knot that I learned years and years ago when Georgia Bonesteel had a quilting program on PBS. However, dunster did me one better and came up with a you tube site; but that is the knot I have used for many, many years and it never fails me.

I learned that knot when I was very young. I don't use it often now, but I find it useful to know.

Keep trying. It takes practice. I only wind it around my finger one time. Too many times will not work.

Yes, one time is enough. Make sure finger is slightly wet, wind thread around until it crosses, roll it off the finger and pull it to the end.

Ah, but will you visit me in the loony bin?

The quilt still stands as is because good weather prevailed and I decided to install a new front lawn. Now that my back needs a rest, I have the perfect activity to occupy myself. Thanks for your suggestions; I now know what to do - the quilter's knot.

James

You have to pinch the knot slightly with your thumb and finger. See if youtube has a video. Keep trying. It took me a quite a few attempts before I mastered it. Once you get it, it makes hand sewing so much easier.