How to Tie a Tailor’s Knot
What they are, when to use them, and how to tie one.
While sewing a few test patterns, it got me thinking about tailor’s knots, so I’m sharing what they are, why they matter, and how to sew one in this edition of Classic Cool Sewing.
What is a tailor’s knot?
A tailor’s knot is a small finishing knot used to secure machine stitching. These handworked knots take more time than a quick machine backstitch, which is why you’ll often find them in couture and on high-end garments.
Why use a tailor’s knot?
A tailor’s knot is more discreet than a backstitch. It also doesn’t come undone easily or add bulk the way other knots can.
Where would you use a tailor’s knot?
Use a tailor’s knot where backstitching would be visible, such as at a dart point.
With topstitching that doesn’t go to the seam edge, like a patch pocket or quilted detail.
On delicate fabrics where you may need to take out stitching.
If the backstitching will be hidden later—in a seam, hem, or facing—you probably don’t need a tailor’s knot. However, if you’re working with delicate fabrics and might need to take out stitches during a fitting, a tailor’s knot at the beginning and end of the seam can be helpful, because this knot is gentler on fabric than backstitching.
Really, anywhere you’d like: for mending, appliqué, or adding embellishments.
Tailor’s Knot How-To
When learning this knot, it helps to insert a pin into the loop, then tighten the knot around the pin. (I’ll illustrate the pin technique below.) You can also just skip the pin, and use your nails to set the knot. The trick is to get the knot as close to the fabric as possible.
To make a tailor’s knot, leave long thread tails.
Next, start an overhand knot, just leave the loop loose.
Insert a pin into the loop, then pull the threads taut to set the knot right up against the fabric.
Placing the pin flush against the fabric helps hold the knot right where you want it. Slide your pin out, and there’s your tailor’s knot.
Sometimes you may need to pull the upper thread to the wrong side with your needle before tying your tailor’s knot.
Does this knot hold in the wash??
Yes! I’m experimenting with a stitched-and-slashed texture, and to help the fabric “bloom,” I machine wash and dry it on high. All the tailor’s knots held beautifully.
Simple Knot vs. Tailor’s Knot
A tailor’s knot is almost the same as a simple knot, with one key difference: a tailor’s knot needs to be placed so it sits right against the fabric to stay secure.
I hope you enjoyed this edition of Classic Cool Sewing. Next time you’re at the machine and a backstitch would be visible, why not pick up your needle or pin and try a tailor’s knot?
Wishing you a warm and wonderful start to December.
With gratitude,
~ Jane
Great idea, never too late to learn (at 81...) Thank you!
The Tailor's Knot was so well explained and illustrated that I am going to try it out the first chance I get. No more messy sewing from this grandmother!