Learn how to thread a sewing machine easily with clear, written instruction and a video tutorial. You will be headed off to your new sewing projects in no time at all.
Sewing is one of my favorite hobbies. I love that you can start with just a few pieces of fabric and transform them into a beautiful and useful result that will last for many years. I imagine passing down my aprons to my girls for them to use and cherish.
From pillows to aprons, linen bags to pot holders… even clothing. Learning just a few simple basics will set you up to create all of these things.
One of the most important skills you will need to master is threading a sewing machine. This is essential in order to sew most things, and once you get the hang of it, you will quickly be on your way to sewing up lovely projects.
This post is part of my free Learn To Sew course, where I teach you everything you need to know to begin your sewing journey.
My goal is to teach as many people as possible this handy and essential skill. You just never know when you will need to fix a hem, sew a button hole, or add a zipper.
So, join me today as I teach you how to thread a sewing machine. You can follow the easy step-by-step process below with pictures, or check out the video tutorial.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I make a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Most Sewing Machines Thread Similarly
Most sewing machines thread pretty similarly, so if your machine is a little different than mine, just follow the guide on your sewing machine. It will have little numbers places next to the spot where you place the string of thread.
Which Sewing Machine do I Recommend?
Honestly, you only need a very basic sewing machine to begin sewing. You can find one for under a $100 here. I actually use one very similar to this one.
How do I know what thread to get for my sewing machine?
You will need to consider what project you are making and the type of fabric you are planning to use. The thicker the fabric the heavier thread weight you generally will want to use. If you are making something with denim or drop cloth then you may want to choose a thicker thread, which is also more durable. Compare that to a soft linen project, then you will want to choose a lighter thread weight (an all-purpose thread will work fine).
Most sewing projects I make utilize a all-purpose thread. Also, consider that thicker thread will show more in projects compared to thinner.
There is also elastic thread that you can use to make this adorable shirred dress.
How to Thread a Sewing Machine Video
How to Thread a Sewing Machine Written Tutorial
Below is a very basic guide to threading your sewing machine. If there is still some confusion, reference the video above where I walk you through each step.
Step 1: Set Up Your Spool
First, set your spool of the thread on the spool pin on the top of the sewing machine. It looks like a small rod on the right side of the sewing machine.
Do not confuse the spool holder with the bobbin holder rod. Usually, the spool holder in near the back of the sewing machine and closer to the left side of the sewing machine then the bobbin rod holder.
Step 2: Start threading your sewing machine
Next, pull the thread across the machine and loop it through the wire. Normally, it is labeled with a one. It will usually catch on its own, but make sure to catch.
Step 3: Pull Thread down through the crevice
Every sewing machine I have ever used, in step 2, the thread always goes down. Pull your thread down the crevice on the right side of the sewing machine.
Step 4: Pull around the tension wheel
Next, pull the thread around the tension knob (which basically looks like a wheel). Make sure to have your tension wheel set a 4 which is the standard sewing for a regular stitch.
Step 5: Pull thread up to the take-up lever
Pull the thread up towards the top of the sewing machine and loop the thread around the looper (also known as a thread take-up lever) on the left side of the sewing machine.
I like to position the looper near the top of the machine by spinning the on the right side of the sewing machine to make it easier to loop the thread around the loop.
Step 6: Pull thread back down towards the needle
Pull the thread down the crevice on the left side of the sewing machine
Step 7: Pull thread through the thread holder
Next, pull the thread under the machine and back towards the needle. Loop the thread around the loop holder above the needle.
Step 8: Place thread through the needle
Lastly, thread the needle through the hole near the bottom of the needle. To help perform this task, you may need to lick the needle to make it easier to thread it through.
Thread the needle through the front of the needle and pull it towards the back.
And that’s it! If you are still having trouble threading the machine, watch the video above where you can actually watch me walk through step by step threading the machine.
After you are done threading the machine, you will want to thread and install the bobbin. Check out this post to see how to do that.
This is a great tutorial! I’ve been trying to learn how to thread my sewing machine for a while now and this was a great guide.
I think the bobbin part on my machine is broken or missing a piece :/ it’s a REALLY old machine that my Gramma gave my mom. I borrowed it, and every time I try to sew, the bobbin gets all screwed up and the machine tried to eat the dress that I was trying to sew Q~Q
Thank you so much for your videos on sewing and the machine threading. Very helpful in getting me to learning to see with a machine. I look forward to learning more from you. Sincerely, Jim Leong. 63 yr. Old man.
I like your tutorial on “How to Thread a sewing machine.” Simple to understand & a great help. Thanks. First time seeing your blog.
I love your videos and tutorials. You are a great teacher and I learn something every time I stop by your site. Thank you Lisa for all the time you devote to your blog and vlog’s.