QUILTsocial Issue 4 | Page 40

Anchoring the end of a seam The needle threader When we sew clothing, we do a backstitch at the beginning and end of each seam to ensure the seam is secure. When we quilt, there’s no need – again you must watch the stitch length. Needle threaders are a great feature on the sewing machine but can sometimes be very frustrating to use. If you find that your needle won’t stay threaded once you release the needle threader, try putting some slack in the thread – the needle will stay threaded every time. However there are times when it’s necessary to anchor the ends of the seams and the Sapphire 930 comes with a FIX function which essentially ties a knot by stitching forward and backward several times in the same spot. So where exactly would you use this FIX function? The FIX function is great if your seam is going to start or finish in the middle of the work rather than the edge of the piece where the seam end will be encased in another seam. Applique – You must secure the end of applique stitching if no other stitching will anchor the end. The needle threader Top stitching – The ends of the row of top stitching must be anchored if no other row of stitching will anchor the end. Stitching down trim, decorative stitches are a couple of other instances that come to mind. And one more – when you’re making a pocket for a bag (or other item similar), you’ll stitch around the pocket leaving an opening to turn inside out. I anchor the beginning and the end of those seams to prevent the stitching from pulling out when I turn the item inside out. Anchor the beginning and ending of these seams (pocket to be turned inside out) with the FIX function 40 QUILTsocial .com ● issue 4 No slack in the thread when I am trying to use the needle threader A little slack in the thread should keep the needle threaded once you release the needle threader