Needle Threader – Types and Uncommon Uses
Needle
threaders are invaluable tools for anyone who works with
needles, thread, yarn, embroidery floss or the like. A needle
threader will help you get very fine thread through the tiniest of
needle eyes, or help pull the chunkiest of yarns through the eye of
a tapestry needle. Needle threaders are especially helpful for
threads that tend to fray at the ends. Of course, a needle
threader is priceless for those times when either the eyes or the
lighting aren't quite good enough to do the job.
Types of Needle Threaders
Needle threaders come in two main types. There are
threaders for finer threads and threaders for yarn and thicker
items.
Most every needle threader
for sewing thread has the same basic design, a diamond shaped
wire with a handle.
Tapestry
threaders are needle threaders for thicker threads and yarns
usually consist of a flat piece of metal with a hole stamped
through a tongue in the end.
There are also "
automatic" or "desk"
threaders. With these devices you insert the thread into a
groove, set the needle into a slot, and press the button. A piece
of thin metal pushes the thread through the eye of the needle.
In addition to your basic threader you will find
multi-tool models that incorporate a thread cutter, a seam
ripper, a magnifying glass or even a light. There are
needle threaders specifically for threading sewing machines or
sergers.
How to Use a Needle Threader
To use a regular sewing or tapestry threader, first insert the
wire or tongue through the eye of your needle. Place the
thread or yarn through the wire or hole in the tongue. When
you pull the threader back out of the needle, the thread or yarn
comes along with it. Now you have a threaded needle.
Other Uses
- Pulling back snags in sweaters and other knit garments
- Finishing the ends on the back of knitting or crocheting
- Pulling thread ends to the wrong side of a garment
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About the author, Sandy Huntress
With over 30 years of sewing experience and more than 20 years
of crafting I've rarely met a craft I didn't like, and have all the
gadgetry to prove it. You'll often find me in my
sewing and crafting room where I design and make garments, quilts,
scrapbooks, cards, paper crafts, dolls, home decor and
jewelry; just to name a few. I'm always interested in trying
the next new thing and love to share my knowledge with
others. For great sewing and crafting inspiration, ideas and
tutorials, check out Keepsake Crafts.
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