Wotza Wednesday – What’s a Cheater Needle?

 

Today I have a question from Gail:

“Nanny what’s a Cheater needle?   Can you explain please?”

Thanks Gail – a great question!

A Cheater Needle is just another name for a Self Threading Needle.  These are used widely by hand stitchers and are especially handy for those with impaired vision.  They are available at any of the supply stores.

The needle has a slit at the top of the eye

You simply place the thread across the top and tug lightly and the threads move down into the eye!

I have just been using one of these to finish off a quilt I am working on.  They make hiding threads a breeze! (and not only in quilting)

I began these rows at the seam by drawing the bobbin thread out before starting sewing.  (This avoids knotting up a mess on the back and gives a much neater finish than backstitching )

I knotted the two threads ( top and bobbin) together

Put the needle down into the quilt and ‘threaded’ the needle

Pulled the needle through, and gently tugged the knot into the quilt – I love the way you hear/feel it pop!

Then I simply trimmed the threads.

 

Here it is all finished:

Thanks for the question Gail.   As you can see, the cheater needle or self threading needle is a very handy item to have in your sewing kit!

Don’t forget, if you have a Wotza question for me just send  a message and I’ll do my best to answer.

Until next time

Nanny xx