The following text has been excerpted from Kids Can Do It: Quilting by Biz Storms with illustrations from June Bradford (Kids Can Press Ltd, 2001).

Note: For instructions with diagrams click here.

Loop Knot

Begin and end your seams with this simple knot.

1. Make a small running stitch leaving a 2.5 cm (1 in.) tail.

2. Backstitch over the first stitch but leave a tiny loop sticking up.

3. Slip the needle through the loop from the top and pull the loop closed.

4. Make another backstitch and loop. Slip the needle up from the bottom and pull the loop closed. Trim the thread, leaving a 0.5 cm (1/4 in.) tail.

Running Stitch

Use a small running stitch for seams and a medium running stitch for quilting or sandwiching.

1. Start at a corner with a loop knot. Push the needle down through both layers of fabric.

2. Bring the needle up through both layers a short distance away and pull the thread through. Repeat, making even stitches.

Changing Thread
When you are running out of thread, make a loop knot and leave a 0.5 cm (1/4 in.) tail. With a new piece of thread in the needle, make a loop knot close to the last one and continue sewing.