How to Start a Machine Embroidery Stitch? A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Start a Machine Embroidery Stitch?

Most embroidery machines begin stitching with securing or locking stitches. These are a few small stitches done automatically at the start of the design to keep the thread in place.

Here’s how the process works:

• Load your design into the machine.

• Hoop the fabric tightly with a stabilizer to avoid shifting.

• The machine will pull the bobbin and top thread into position.

• As stitching starts, the machine makes locking stitches by moving back and forth quickly.

• These stitches act like a knot to stop the thread from coming loose.

• No need to tie a knot or hold the thread manually, the machine does it for you.

Do you love embroidery but can’t afford costly embroidery machines? True Digitizing is here to help. We provide custom embroidery digitizing services at affordable prices in the USA. So, forget about buying expensive machines, get all your favorite embroidery designs today at a low cost with us.

Do You Need a Knot in Machine Embroidery?

No, knots are not used in machine embroidery. Instead of tying knots like in hand embroidery, machines use automatic start stitches or trim functions to hold threads. This keeps the back of the fabric neat and prevents thread bunching.

Starting Stitches Using a Tie-Off or Lock Stitch

Many embroidery machines allow you to set tie-off or lock stitch options. These are short stitches made at the start and end to secure the thread.

Here’s what to do:

• Check your machine’s settings for “tie-off stitch” or “lock stitch.”

• Make sure it is turned on before running the design.

• When the design starts, the machine does a few stitches in one spot to lock the thread.

• This is very helpful for designs with fine details or lettering.

Can You Use a Loop or Waste Knot in Machine Embroidery?

No, these are hand embroidery techniques. Machine embroidery does not use loop starts, waste knots, or manual anchoring. Instead, it depends on precision programming and machine features like:

• Built-in thread trimming

• Start/stop points

• Automatic tension control

So just trust your machine and let it handle the thread management.

How to Start Filling Stitches in an Embroidery Machine?

When your machine begins filling areas like satin stitches or tatami fills, it still uses the same locking method. Here’s what happens:

• The machine locks the thread before filling.

• Then it moves smoothly to fill the area with no loose ends.

• The thread tension stays even for a clean look.

Just make sure your fabric is hooped tightly and your stabilizer is right for the material.

How to End a Machine Embroidery Stitch?

Just like starting, the machine also ends threads with automatic lock stitches or trim functions.

Here’s how it works:

When the design ends or moves to another area, the machine stops and makes small locking stitches.

• Some machines will also trim the thread automatically.

• This gives you a clean, smooth finish without threads hanging out.

• You don’t need to tie knots or hide tails manually.

Ending Stitches with Anchoring Options

If your machine does not trim automatically, follow these steps:

• Stop the machine after the design section ends.

• Pull the thread slightly then trim close to the fabric.

• If needed, manually press lock stitch to secure the thread before cutting.

This is good for older or basic embroidery machines.

What Happens If You’re Filling a Shape in an Embroidery Machine?

When filling shapes like logos, letters, or patches, your machine still uses pre-programmed start and stop points.

• Make sure your design file is digitized correctly.

• The machine will take care of locking the beginning and end of each fill.

• You just need to watch the tension and keep the hoop stable.

No need to do anything manually, machine embroidery takes care of it all.

Tips to Start and End Machine Embroidery the Right Way

• Always use proper stabilizers based on fabric type.

• Clean your bobbin case and thread paths regularly.

• Use high-quality threads to avoid breakage.

• Double-check that tie-off stitches are enabled in your machine.

For multi-colored designs, make sure each color change includes a start/stop sequence.

Conclusion

Machine embroidery is a fun and creative way to make stunning fabric designs. The key to perfect results is to start and end your stitches correctly using your machine’s built-in features like lock stitches and auto-trim.

You don’t need to use knots, loops, or complicated techniques, your machine does it for you. Just focus on proper setup, tension, and design quality.