Knot easy
 

Getting ready to attach the back side of a quilt binding by hand, I threaded a needle and attempted to make a knot using a technique where you wind the thread a few times around the index fingertip and roll it off with the thumb. Despite the fact that I tried a few variations, it didn't work for me, not even once. Granted, I have little experience with hand stitching; I usually double the thread to knot it, and I'm one of those people who have to stop walking for a moment to pause and chew my gum, but this knotting technique doesn't strike me as rocket surgery.

Do you have a favorite method for knotting thread? Do you have a favorite method for attaching (finishing) binding by hand?

James

I knot it the way you describe... keep trying :)

This is what I usually do - the quilter's knot - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g04jPV8tM2E

I use the quilter's knot. I taught my granddaughter this knot when she was five. Also used to knot a fishing hook to fishing line too.

I have been quilting for almost 30 years and I was never able to twirl around the finger to make a knot. I just tied a knot and make sure it was buried well.

I use the same as several others.... the quilter's knot. Tartan explained it perfectly.

Just do whatever works for you. Once in awhile I can get the "quilter's knot but not all the time. I don't worry about it. Some times I double sometimes I don't. Not an issue with me. I'm good at hiding my knots so no biggy.

I do what Tartan does -- wrapping it the 3-4x around the needle & then using my thumb nail to slide it down to the end. It also helps if you remember to always thread your needle with the end coming off the spool (not the newly cut end). Thread is wound in one direction & is more likely to get twisted if you thread the needle from the other end.

I've been making that not for more than 60 yrs. and have to think about it as I just do it automatically. Maybe you are doing too many wraps or too far on your finger. Keep trying, it does work well.