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How to use the loop method to start cross stitch or embroidery without a knot

How to use the loop method to start cross stitch or embroidery without a knot

There are a number of ways to start your thread when doing cross stitch or hand embroidery, but my all-time favorite is the knotless loop start method. Not only is it quick and easy, but it helps keep the back of your work neat and tidy.

While it is my go-to method, there is one caveat. The loop method can only be used when you are stitching with an even number of strands, that is 2, 4, or 6 strands.

Cross stitch is often done with two strands -- for example, when you are stitching on 14-count Aida or over two on 28-count linen -- so the loop start method works in a lot of cases. It can also be used when doing hand embroidery with a full 6 strands of floss.

Here's how to do the method when you're stitching with two strands. Once you understand how it works, you will be able to apply the method to additional strands.

How to do the knotless loop start method: 

1. Cut a length of floss twice the length you want to stitch with. For example, if you normally stitch with an 18-inch length, cut your floss to 36 inches.

2. Separate out 1 strand of floss and fold it in half so the ends meet.

3. Thread both ends through the eye of your needle. The other end of the thread will form a loop.

How to use the loop method to start cross stitch or embroidery without a knot

4. Bring your needle up from the back of your fabric to the front at the point you want to start stitching, leaving 2 or 3 inches of loop at the back.

How to use the loop method to start cross stitch or embroidery without a knot

5. Make your first stitch (in the case of cross stitch, this will be a half cross stitch). When your needle is at the back of the fabric, pass it through the loop of thread.

How to use the loop method to start cross stitch or embroidery without a knot

6. Pull gently to tighten. The loop will lie flat against the back of the fabric and your thread will be secure so you can continue stitching.

How to use the loop method to start cross stitch or embroidery without a knot

If you are stitching with 4 strands, do the same thing by folding 2 double-length strands in half to form the loop. For 6 strands, start with 3 double-length strands.

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How to use the loop method to start cross stitch or embroidery without a knot

11 Responses

Brooke B.

Brooke B.

May 09, 2021

Dear John Lansford. YES. This method can be used with tapestry wool thread.

Wendy Ross

Wendy Ross

March 28, 2021

Video would be really helpful

Alex

Alex

October 06, 2020

Brilliant, have struggled with knots before but this is great. Thank you

Mari

Mari

June 08, 2020

What a great tip! Can’t wait to try it! I recently took up cross stitching again. I did it as a child, but recently found myself spending too much time on my phone pouring over news ( Covid & Floyd unrest) so I decided to pick up stitching again after 30 or so years. It brings back happy memories and I spend less time on my phone.

John lansford

John lansford

May 25, 2020

Can this knotless stitch be used with tapestry wool thread? Pls. comment!

John lansford

John lansford

May 25, 2020

Can this knotless stitch be used with tapestry wool thread? Pls. comment!

John lansford

John lansford

May 25, 2020

Can this knotless stitch be used with tapestry wool thread? Pls. comment!

John lansford

John lansford

May 25, 2020

Can this knotless stitch be used with tapestry wool thread? Pls. comment!

John lansford

John lansford

May 25, 2020

Can this knotless stitch be used with tapestry wool thread? Pls. comment!

Diane Wohlwend

Diane Wohlwend

February 10, 2020

Wow! Ditto on everything Michelle wrote. Had I but known! I just finished a huge project in December. This would have saved me a lot of time trying to get a new thread to stay where I put it. And my current project will go much more smoothly. Thank you. I can’t wait to tell my sister.

Michelle Thomas

Michelle Thomas

February 07, 2020

I’m stunned. How have I not known this?? This is just one reason (new to me, prob not new technique to others) why I just LOVE stitchedmodern.com. Thank you for never assuming that stitchers are seasoned veterans. Tips like this keep me inspired to stitch, and gently remind me that I have a lot more to learn!

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