How to Thread an Embroidery Needle (And Which Size to Use)

If you’re struggling to thread your embroidery needle, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common beginner frustrations.

The good news? It’s almost always down to two simple things: using the wrong needle size or trying to thread too much, too-long thread. Once you fix those, everything feels much easier.

Which Embroidery Needle Size Should I Use?

Embroidery needles (often called crewel needles) have a slightly larger eye than regular sewing needles. The more strands of thread you’re using, the larger the eye you’ll need.

As a simple rule: more strands = lower number needle.

Needle Size	Number of Strands
3	5 or 6 strands
4–5	4 or 5 strands
7	3 strands
8	2 or 3 strands
10	1 or 2 strands

If your thread won’t go through the eye easily, try a larger needle before blaming yourself. It really does make a difference.

Why You Might Be Struggling to Thread Your Needle

• Your needle eye is too small for the number of strands.
• Your thread end is fluffy or frayed.
• Your thread is too long and keeps twisting.
• You haven’t separated your strands neatly.

Fix those four things and threading suddenly becomes much less dramatic.

How to Thread an Embroidery Needle (Step-by-Step)

1. Cut a manageable length of thread. Around 40cm is ideal — roughly from your fingertips to your elbow.
2. If needed, separate your strands slowly and smoothly.
3. Trim the end diagonally with sharp scissors.
4. Flatten the end gently between your fingers.
5. Push the thread through the eye of the needle.

Keeping your thread shorter makes a huge difference. Long thread twists more, frays more, and is much harder to control.

How to Use a Needle Threader

If threading still feels fiddly, a needle threader can make life much easier.

1. Push the wire loop of the threader through the eye of the needle.
2. Place your thread through the wire loop.
3. Pull the threader back through the eye — your thread will follow.
4. Remove the threader and you’re ready to stitch.

How to Stop Your Thread Tangling While You Stitch

Tangles are usually caused by thread twisting.

• Keep your thread to around 40cm (fingertips to elbow).
• Every few minutes, let your needle and thread dangle freely to untwist.
• If you stitch regularly, a light thread conditioner can help your thread glide more smoothly through fabric.

Quick Fix Summary

• Use the right needle size for your strands.
• Keep thread to around 40cm (fingertips to elbow).
• Trim and flatten the thread end before threading.
• Let your thread dangle to untwist.
• Use a needle threader if needed.