Starting and ending threads without knots

The loop start and the waste-knot start for cross stitch, and how to end a thread neatly on the back so your finished piece stays flat.

Knots on the back of cross stitch make lumps that show when the piece is framed, and they can pull loose. These three methods give a flat, secure back.

1. The loop start (for an even number of strands)

Perfect when you stitch with two strands – which is most of the time.

Take one strand about 36 inches (90 cm) long and fold it in half. Thread the two cut ends through the needle; the fold makes a loop at the other end.
Come up from the back at the lower-left corner of your first stitch. Leave the loop hanging at the back.
Go down at the upper-right corner, and on the back pass the needle through the loop. Pull gently – the thread is anchored.

The loop start: fold one strand, come up, then catch the loop on the back.

2. The waste knot (any number of strands)

Tie a knot at the end of your thread and go down from the front about an inch away from where you'll start, in the direction you'll be stitching. Stitch towards the knot – your stitches cover the thread on the back. When you reach it, snip the knot off on the front.

3. Running under existing stitches

Once you have some stitches in place, the easiest start of all is to slide the needle under 4–5 stitches on the back, then come up where you need to be.

Ending a thread

When you have about 3 inches (8 cm) left, take the needle to the back and weave it under 4 or 5 stitches – ideally of the same color – then trim close.

Weave the tail under a few stitches on the back, then trim.

TipAvoid carrying a dark thread across the back of an unstitched area: it can show through light Aida. End it and start fresh instead.

Next: full stitch, half stitch and backstitch.