How to End a Stitch on Sewing Machine: Overall Guide!

To end a stitch on a sewing machine, complete the desired stitching, then use the reverse button for a few backstitches. Resume forward stitching and secure the seam by tying a knot with both threads. Leave a tail, cut the thread, and pull the fabric away to unwind. This process ensures a neat finish, preventing fraying or unraveling the stitch. 

As a beginner, it would be complex to understand how to end a stitch on a sewing machine. To make the process of ending a stitch on your sewing machine easier, we have provided a step-by-step guide.

Quick Answers 

Properly finishing your stitches is essential to achieve professional-looking results and prevent unraveling or fraying of the fabric. To end a stitch on a sewing machine, follow these quick steps: 

• Locate the reverse button on your sewing machine and press or hold it down to make the machine sew in reverse. Stitch backward for a few stitches to create a backstitch that reinforces the end of the seam.

• Release the reverse button and resume forward stitching. Stitch forward for a few more stitches to lock the seam securely. Lift the presser foot to release the tension discs, cut the thread, and leave a tail. Pull the fabric away from the machine to unwind the thread. Finally, tie a knot with both the top and bobbin threads to secure the stitch.

A Step-By-Step Guide to End a Stitch on Sewing Machine

If you’re a beginner and started sewing, this step-by-step guide will help you learn how to end a stitch. Here is a detailed guideline on how to end a stitch on a sewing machine:

Step 1: The Fabric Should Be Machine Stitched

To end the seam, you must use any kind of stitching, straight or zigzag, until you have reached the end of the fabric. If you are unfamiliar with a sewing machine and ending stitches, practice it on fabric scraps until you feel comfortable doing it.

Step 2: Reverse Your Sewing Machine

On almost every sewing machine, there is a reverse button. Using your sewing machine’s manual, locate the reverse button and put it in reverse. Double-check the button before starting the stitch. This will allow you to sew backward and ensure that your stitches are straight.

The reverse button is helpful if you want to fix mistakes or change directions in the middle of sewing. Practice sewing on a piece of scrap fabric until you feel comfortable with your machine.

Step 3: Start Backstitching

After you have pressed the reverse button, make 3 to 5 backstitches on your fabric. The machine will begin stitching backward on your stitches. You can also adjust the stitch length to make your end stitch stronger. Keeping the backstitch shorter will prevent unraveling.

The backstitch is a tight stitch that prevents your stitches from unraveling. It is used at the beginning and end of a seam to secure the thread and prevent it from coming loose. You can also use backstitching to reinforce your machine stitches or make them more durable.

Step 4: Tying Off the Threads 

To secure the stitch further, lift the presser foot of your sewing machine to release the tension discs. Cut the thread, leaving a tail of about 6 inches. Pull the fabric away from the machine, allowing the thread to unwind from the spool. To prevent the stitch from coming undone, tie a knot with both the top and bobbin threads, securing them together.

Step 5: Decrease The Length 

By setting the stitch length to a shorter value, the machine will produce stitches that are closer together. That results in a denser and stronger seam at the end of your stitching.

The shorter stitch length helps to reinforce the final stitches, making them less likely to come undone over time. This is especially useful for seams that will undergo frequent stress, such as in high-wear areas of garments or heavy-duty fabric projects.

Step 6: Try Manual Stitching 

For extra security, if your sewing machine has a manual stitching option, you can manually turn the handwheel to complete a few stitches. 

To use the manual stitching option, simply turn the handwheel located on the side of the sewing machine. This will cause the needle to move up and down, creating stitches without the need to use the foot pedal or power the machine electrically. By manually stitching a few stitches at the end of your seam, you can ensure that the thread is less likely to come loose.

Step 7: Now, Begin Forward Stitching

Switch the reverse button back to normal. Start forward stitching for a couple of stitches, then stop. Ensure that three lines of thread overlap the end stitch before you stop stitching.

This will help secure the end stitch. You can also use backstitching to reinforce your machine stitches or make them more durable. Now, begin forward stitching. Switch the reverse button back to normal. Start forward stitching for a couple of stitches, then stop.

Step 8: Finally, Lift Up The Needle

Now you can lift up the needle using the hand wheel. Slide the fabric from the machine and cut the threads from the last stretch. Finish off your seams by pressing them properly, and you have learned how to end a stitch.

By following these steps properly you can end a stitch on your sewing machine. Always try to follow this method to give an ending stitch in your sewing task because it is necessary to lock the stitch.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

What Is The Best Stitch to Finish A Seam?

The ideal stitch for seam finishing is the zigzag stitch on your sewing machine, especially if you don’t have an overlocker or serger. When making handmade garments, finishing the seams is crucial to achieve a neat and durable result while preventing fraying. 

What Is The Strongest Stitch in Sewing?

The strongest stitch in sewing is the backstitch. It is highly versatile and durable, making it the go-to choice for various sewing tasks, including repairs. The backstitch is particularly useful for its seamless and strong finish for a wide range of sewing projects.

How Do You Finish A Thread Stitch?

To complete a stitch when hand-sewing, leave several inches of thread remaining. Pass the needle under the last stitch and create a loop large enough to accommodate your finger. Then, insert the needle through the loop and pull it tight to form a knot, securing the stitch in place.

How Do You Hide The End of A Stitch?

To hide the end of a stitch, tie a pretzel-shaped knot in the thread. Use your thumb or the tip of your needle to push the knot down as far as you can. It can be about 1/4″ away from the fabric or even closer. This will secure the end of the thread and keep it from unraveling or being visible on the fabric’s surface.

Conclusion: 

Now you know how to end a stitch on sewing machine.

The end stitch is a very important part of sewing. It prevents unraveling and makes your seams stronger. It would help if you learned how to make an end stitch properly to sew successfully. Use this guide as the best tool for learning how to end a seam properly!