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4 Easy Steps to Hem Jacket Sleeves

It’s that time of year again: the weather is warming up and it’s time to put away the heavy winter coats. But before you can do that, you need to make sure your jackets are in good condition. One of the most common problems with jackets is that the sleeves are too long. If you’re not sure how to hem jacket sleeves, don’t worry. It’s a relatively easy process that can be done in a few simple steps.

The first step is to gather your supplies. You will need a sewing machine, thread, a measuring tape, and a pair of scissors. Once you have your supplies, you can begin the process of hemming the sleeves. First, you need to measure the length of the sleeve. To do this, measure from the shoulder seam to the desired length of the sleeve. Once you have the measurement, mark the length on the sleeve with a piece of chalk or fabric marker. Next, you need to fold up the sleeve along the marked line. Make sure the fold is even and that the fabric is smooth. Once the sleeve is folded, you can pin it in place. Finally, you can sew the hem in place using a sewing machine.

Hemming jacket sleeves is a relatively easy process that can be done in a few simple steps. By following these instructions, you can ensure that your jackets fit you perfectly and that you look your best. In addition to hemming the sleeves, you may also want to consider other alterations, such as taking in the sides or shortening the length of the jacket. By making these simple changes, you can ensure that your jackets fit you perfectly and that you look your best.

Gather Your Materials

Essential Tools and Supplies

Before embarking on your jacket sleeve hemming journey, it’s crucial to gather the necessary tools and supplies. Here’s a comprehensive list to ensure a smooth and successful process:

Measuring Tape: An accurate measuring tape is indispensable for determining the desired sleeve length.

Pins: Sharp, fine pins will securely hold the fabric in place as you make alterations.

Sewing Machine: Choose a sewing machine with a suitable stitch for handling the fabric of the jacket.

Thread: Select a thread that matches the color and weight of the jacket fabric.

Needle: Use a needle that is appropriate for the fabric type and thickness.

Iron and Ironing Board: An iron and ironing board will be used for pressing and smoothing the fabric.

Seam Ripper: If you need to remove any existing stitches, a seam ripper will come in handy.

Measure the Length You Want

Before you start, measure the length you want your hem to be from the shoulder seam. You can shorten a jacket sleeve by 1-3 inches (2.54-7.62 cm). However, if you are making a substantial change, you may want to consult a tailor. A good rule of thumb is to make the hem half an inch to one inch (1.27-2.54 cm) longer than the desired finished length. This will allow for the seam allowance and the natural stretch and settling of the fabric when worn.

To measure the hem length, put on the jacket and stand in front of a mirror. Mark the desired length with a pin or piece of chalk. Take off the jacket and lay it flat on a table. Fold the sleeve along the shoulder seam and measure from the shoulder seam to the mark you made. This is the length you will need to shorten the sleeve.

The following table shows the typical sleeve lengths for different heights:

Height	Sleeve Length
5’0″ (152.4 cm) and under	22-23 inches (55.88-58.42 cm)
5’1″-5’3″ (154.94-160.02 cm)	23-24 inches (58.42-60.96 cm)
5’4″-5’6″ (162.56-167.64 cm)	24-25 inches (60.96-63.5 cm)
5’7″-5’9″ (170.18-175.26 cm)	25-26 inches (63.5-66.04 cm)
5’10” and taller (177.8 cm and taller)	26-27 inches (66.04-68.58 cm)

If you are unsure about the length, it is better to err on the side of making the hem too long. You can always shorten it more later if needed.

Mark the Hem Line

Step 1: Put on or have someone help you put on the jacket. Wear the jacket like you normally would, with the sleeves at the desired length and the cuffs unbuttoned. Hold your arms down at your sides.

Step 2: Fold the excess fabric up at the cuff. Bring the edge of the cuff up to the desired hem line, folding the excess fabric up. Use tailor’s chalk or a fabric pen to mark the new hem line directly onto the lining of the jacket sleeve, just above the folded edge.

Step 3: Mark the rest of the hem line. Once you have created a reference point at the cuff, mark the rest of the hem line at the same distance from the edge of the sleeve. To do this, use a hem gauge or measuring tape to measure the desired hem length from the edge of the jacket sleeve, starting at the first mark you made at the cuff. Make small marks along the sleeve at this distance, connecting them to form a line.

Step 4: Remove the jacket. With the hem line marked, remove the jacket and lay it flat on a surface. Use a ruler or measuring tape to connect the marks you made at the cuff and along the sleeve, creating a straight line. This will be the new hem line.

Step 5: Double-check the length. Pin the new hem along the marked line. Put on the jacket again to ensure that the sleeves are now the desired length. Adjust the hem as needed, then remove the jacket and adjust the pins.

Additional Tips:


– Use a steam iron to press the fold of the cuff before marking the hem line to get a precise measurement.	– If the jacket has multiple buttons on the cuff, unbutton the bottom button only. Use the hem as a guide to mark the new button placement location.

Fold and Press the Hem

Once you have marked the desired length, it’s time to fold and press the hem. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Fold the sleeve up once by the amount of the hem allowance you marked (typically 1-1.5 inches).
Press the fold firmly using an iron and a pressing cloth. This will create a crisp crease.
Fold the sleeve up again, this time enclosing the raw edge of the first fold within the second. Ensure that the second fold is the same width as the first.
Press the second fold thoroughly to set it in place. You may want to use a tailor’s ham or a sleeve board to achieve a professional-looking finish.

Hem Allowance	Recommended Fold Width
1 inch	1/2 inch
1.5 inches	3/4 inch

Sew the Hem

Once you have folded the hem to the desired length, it’s time to sew it in place. You can use a hand-sewing needle and thread, or a sewing machine. If you’re using a hand-sewing needle, use a small, sharp needle and thread that matches the color of the jacket. Start by sewing a small stitch at the folded edge of the hem. Then, continue sewing around the edge of the hem, using small, even stitches.

If you’re using a sewing machine, set the machine to a small stitch length and use a thread that matches the color of the jacket. Start by sewing a small stitch at the folded edge of the hem. Then, continue sewing around the edge of the hem, using small, even stitches. Be sure to backstitch at the beginning and end of the seam to secure the thread.

Once you have sewn around the edge of the hem, remove the pins and press the hem with a hot iron. This will help to set the seam and give the hem a professional finish.

Here are some additional tips for sewing the hem of a jacket sleeve:

Use a sharp needle and thread that matches the color of the jacket.
Sew the hem using small, even stitches.
Be sure to backstitch at the beginning and end of the seam to secure the thread.
Press the hem with a hot iron to set the seam and give the hem a professional finish.

Press the Hem Again

Once the hem is sewn, it’s important to press it again to set the seam and give it a professional finish. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Turn the jacket inside out and press the hem allowance flat using a steam iron.
2. Fold the hem allowance up to meet the inside of the sleeve.
3. Press the folded hem allowance again, using a steam iron, to hold it in place.
4. Turn the jacket right side out and press the hem one last time from the outside using a steam iron. This will give the hem a crisp and polished appearance.

Material	Iron Setting
Cotton	High
Silk	Low
Wool	Medium

5. When ironing the hem, use a press cloth to protect the fabric from the direct heat of the iron.
6. Take your time and iron the hem carefully, making sure to avoid any puckering or stretching of the fabric.
7. Once the hem is completely dry, the jacket is ready to wear.

Trim Any Excess Fabric

For a clean, finished look, you’ll need to trim away any excess fabric at the bottom of the sleeves. To do this, first turn the jacket inside out. Then, lay it flat on a table or ironing board and smooth out the sleeves.

Next, identify the hem line that you marked earlier. Using a sharp pair of scissors, carefully cut along the hem line, removing any excess fabric. Be sure to cut as close to the hem as possible without fraying the fabric.

Once you’ve trimmed away the excess fabric, turn the jacket right side out and press the sleeves with an iron. This will help to set the new hem and give it a professional finish.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you trim away the excess fabric:

Step	Instructions
1	Turn the jacket inside out and lay it flat
2	Smooth out the sleeves
3	Identify the hem line and cut along it
4	Turn the jacket right side out and press the sleeves

Fold and Press the Sleeve Edge

To ensure a neat and professional finish, carefully fold and press the sleeve edge before sewing the hem. Here are the detailed steps for folding and pressing the sleeve edge:

Measure and Mark the Hem: Using a measuring tape, determine the desired length of the sleeve and mark it with a fabric pen or chalk.
Fold the Sleeve Inward: Bring the edge of the sleeve inward towards the center of the fabric, aligning the marked line with the existing hem.
Press the Folded Edge: Use a warm iron and a pressing cloth to firmly press the folded edge. This will create a crease that will serve as a guide for the hem stitch.
Fold the Hem Up: Fold the pressed edge up towards the shoulder of the jacket, ensuring that the raw edge is concealed and the folded edge is aligned with the crease you just pressed.
Press the Hem Again: Press the folded hem again using a warm iron and a pressing cloth. This will create a sharp crease and ensure the hem is secure and even.
Pin the Hem: Pin the folded hem in place along the pressed crease. Use small, sharp pins perpendicular to the hem to prevent puckering or distortion.
Check for Evenness: As you pin, ensure that the hem is even and consistent around the entire sleeve.
Secure with a Basting Stitch: For added security and precision, consider using a basting stitch to hold the hem in place before sewing the final hem stitch.

Sew the Sleeve Edge

Once you have the cuff sewn, you need to sew the sleeve edge. To do this, fold the raw edge of the sleeve up by 1/2 inch and press it. Then fold it up another 1/2 inch and press it again. This will create a double-folded hem.

Now, you can stitch the hem in place. You can do this by hand or by machine. If you are sewing by hand, use a blind stitch. If you are sewing by machine, use a narrow zigzag stitch.

Stitch Type	Description	Recommended Uses
Blind stitch	A stitch that is almost invisible from the right side of the fabric	For hemming garments, attaching lace, and other delicate fabrics
Narrow zigzag stitch	A stitch that is strong and stretchy	For hemming garments, attaching elastic, and other projects that require a secure seam

Start stitching the hem in place at the bottom of the sleeve. Stitch all the way around the sleeve, making sure to catch the folded edge of the fabric. When you reach the end of the sleeve, overlap the beginning and end of the stitching by 1/2 inch and stitch over it to secure the hem.

Press the Sleeve Edge Again

After the sleeve is turned right side out, it’s crucial to press the edge again. This step ensures that the hem is flat and securely pressed. Use a steam iron on a medium heat setting with a pressing cloth to prevent any burns or damage to the fabric.

Place the iron on the edge of the sleeve and press firmly for a few seconds. Be careful not to overpress, as this could scorch the fabric. Run the iron along the entire length of the sleeve edge, ensuring that the folds are crisp and the hem is evenly pressed.

Once the edge is pressed, allow the sleeve to cool completely before proceeding to the next step. This will ensure that the hem stays in place and doesn’t shift or wrinkle when worn.

Tips for Pressing the Sleeve Edge:

Tip
Use a pressing cloth to protect the fabric from burning.
Press the sleeve edge firmly, but not excessively.
Run the iron along the entire length of the edge.
Allow the sleeve to cool completely before moving on.

How To Hem Jacket Sleeves

Hemming jacket sleeves is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. With a little practice, you can achieve a professional-looking finish that will make your jacket look like new.

Materials you will need:

Jacket

Scissors

Needle and thread

Measuring tape or ruler

Iron and ironing board

Instructions:

Determine how much you want to shorten the sleeves. Try on the jacket and mark the desired length with a pin.
Remove the sleeve from the jacket. Most sleeves are attached to the jacket with a seam at the shoulder. To remove the sleeve, simply cut the thread at the seam.
Fold up the hem. Fold the bottom edge of the sleeve up by the desired amount. Press the fold with an iron.
Stitch the hem. Sew a straight stitch around the edge of the hem, close to the folded edge.
Reattach the sleeve to the jacket. Pin the sleeve back in place and sew it to the jacket using a seam allowance of 1/4 inch.
Press the finished hem. Iron the hem to give it a professional finish.

7 Easy Steps to Restore Velcro and Make It Stick Like New

Have you ever been frustrated by Velcro that has lost its grip? Over time, Velcro can become less effective due to dirt, dust, and other particles that accumulate on the hooks and loops. This can make it difficult to fasten items securely, leading to frustration and inconvenience. However, all hope is not lost! There are several simple and effective methods you can use to restore the adhesive properties of Velcro and make it as good as new.

One of the most effective ways to clean Velcro is to use a brush. A soft-bristled brush, such as a toothbrush or a small paintbrush, can be used to gently remove dirt and debris from the hooks and loops. Be sure to brush in the direction of the fibers to avoid damaging the Velcro. If the Velcro is heavily soiled, you can use a mild soap and water solution to clean it. Apply the solution to the Velcro and gently scrub with the brush. Rinse the Velcro thoroughly with clean water and allow it to air dry.

Another method for restoring Velcro is to use a vacuum cleaner. The suction of the vacuum cleaner can help to remove dirt and debris from the Velcro. Be sure to use a low suction setting to avoid damaging the Velcro. You can also use the crevice tool attachment to clean hard-to-reach areas. If the Velcro is heavily soiled, you can use a vacuum cleaner with a beater bar attachment to help remove dirt and debris. However, be careful not to use too much force, as this could damage the Velcro.

Remove Dirt and Debris

Before you begin cleaning your Velcro, it’s crucial to remove any loose dirt and debris that may be trapped in the hooks and loops. This will help ensure a thorough cleaning and prevent further damage to the material.

Follow these steps to effectively remove dirt and debris:

1. Shake and Brush

Shake the Velcro fabric vigorously to remove loose dirt and small particles. Use a soft-bristled brush to gently brush away any remaining debris from the surface of the Velcro.

2. Vacuum or Blow Out

If necessary, use a low-power vacuum cleaner to gently suck up any stubborn dirt and debris. Alternatively, you can use a hair dryer on a low setting to blow out any trapped particles.

3. Rinse with Water

Hold the Velcro under running water to rinse away any remaining dirt or debris. Avoid using strong water pressure, as this can damage the Velcro material.

Heat the Velcro to Make it More Flexible

Heat can help to soften the Velcro and make it more pliable, which can make it easier to attach and remove. You can use a variety of methods to heat the Velcro, such as:

Method	Instructions
Hairdryer	Hold the hairdryer about 6 inches away from the Velcro and blast it with hot air for 30-60 seconds.
Iron	Set the iron to a low heat setting and place a piece of cloth over the Velcro. Iron the Velcro for 15-20 seconds, using a circular motion.
Microwave	Place the Velcro in the microwave for 10-15 seconds on high power. Be careful not to overheat the Velcro, as this could damage it.

Once the Velcro has been heated, it should be more flexible and easier to attach and remove. If the Velcro is still not flexible enough, you can repeat the heating process for a few more seconds.

Brush the Velcro to Remove Loose Threads

The first step in restoring Velcro is to remove any loose threads. This can be done with a soft-bristled brush or a toothbrush. Gently brush the Velcro in both directions to remove any dirt, dust, or debris. If there are any large pieces of thread, you can use a pair of scissors to carefully cut them away.

Once you have brushed the Velcro, you can use a vacuum cleaner to remove any remaining debris. Be sure to use the soft brush attachment to avoid damaging the Velcro.

Case Scenario	Specific Instruction	Expected Outcome
If the Velcro is severely matted or clogged	Use a fine-tooth comb to gently separate the fibers.	The Velcro will be detangled and restored
If the Velcro has lost its stickiness	Apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol to a cloth and gently wipe it over the Velcro.	The adhesive on the Velcro will be reactivated.
If the Velcro is frayed or damaged	Use a sewing machine or glue to repair the damage.	The Velcro will be restored to its original condition.

Once you have cleaned the Velcro, you can test it to see if it is working properly. Simply press the two sides of the Velcro together and see if they stick. If they do not stick, you may need to repeat the cleaning process or apply a small amount of adhesive.

Apply a Fabric Stiffener

Fabric stiffeners are a great way to restore the grip of Velcro. They work by coating the fibers of the Velcro with a stiffening agent, which makes them more resistant to wear and tear. To use a fabric stiffener, simply follow these steps:

Clean the Velcro with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris.
Apply a thin coat of fabric stiffener to the Velcro. You can use a brush or a sponge to apply the stiffener.
Allow the fabric stiffener to dry completely. This may take several hours or even overnight.
Once the fabric stiffener is dry, test the Velcro to see if it is sticky enough. If it is not, you can apply another coat of stiffener.

Here are some additional tips for using fabric stiffeners:

Use a fabric stiffener that is specifically designed for Velcro.
Apply the fabric stiffener in a well-ventilated area.
Do not apply the fabric stiffener to Velcro that is already damaged.
If you are applying the fabric stiffener to a large area of Velcro, you may want to test it on a small area first to make sure that it does not damage the fabric.

Fabric Stiffener	Description
Stiff Stuff	A water-based fabric stiffener that is safe for use on all fabrics.
Fabri-Tac	A solvent-based fabric stiffener that is very strong and durable.
Aleene’s Stiffen-Up	A spray-on fabric stiffener that is easy to use and dries quickly.

Maintain the Velcro Properly

Velcro is a highly versatile and durable fastener, but maintaining it properly is essential for ensuring its longevity and effectiveness. Here are some best practices to help you keep your Velcro in optimal condition:

1. Keep it Clean: Dirt, dust, and debris can accumulate on the hooks and loops, reducing their gripping power. Regularly brush or vacuum both surfaces to remove any buildup.

2. Avoid Exposure to Heat: High temperatures can weaken the adhesive on the Velcro strips. Keep it away from heat sources and avoid ironing or steam cleaning.

3. Use a Mild Detergent: If you need to wash Velcro, use a mild, non-abrasive detergent. Avoid bleach or fabric softeners, as they can damage the materials.

4. Hand Wash or Use a Delicate Cycle: To minimize the risk of snagging or scratching, hand wash Velcro items whenever possible. If machine washing is necessary, use a gentle cycle and avoid agitators.

5. Hang to Dry: Air drying is the best way to preserve Velcro. Use a clothesline or hanging rack to avoid wrinkles and maintain the shape of the strips.

6. Avoid Over-Stretching: Pulling or stretching Velcro excessively can damage the fibers and reduce its holding power. Apply a gentle force when securing or detaching.

7. Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Keep Velcro in a cool, dry location with no direct sunlight exposure. This will help prevent the adhesive from drying out or becoming less sticky.

8. Use Velcro Cleaning Products: If your Velcro is heavily soiled or has lost its grip, consider using specialized cleaning products designed for Velcro restoration. These products can help remove dirt and restore the adhesive’s effectiveness.

9. Additional Velcro Maintenance Tips:

Tip
Use a toothbrush or fine-toothed comb to remove lint or hair from the Velcro hooks.
If the adhesive on the Velcro has become weak, apply a small amount of super glue or fabric glue to reinforce it.
To prevent snagging, trim any loose threads or frayed edges around the Velcro.
If Velcro is not gripping as well as it used to, try reversing the strips (loop-to-hook instead of hook-to-loop).
For long-term storage, wrap Velcro strips in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to protect them from moisture and dust.

Troubleshooting Tips

1. Clean Debris

Dirt and lint can accumulate on Velcro, preventing it from adhering properly. Use a vacuum cleaner or a soft brush to remove any debris.

2. Trim Loose Threads

Loose threads can prevent Velcro from hooking together. Carefully trim any stray threads using sharp scissors.

3. Realign the Velcro

Sometimes, Velcro strips can become misaligned, resulting in poor adhesion. Realign the strips properly and press them together firmly.

4. Check for Moisture

Moisture can weaken the adhesive on Velcro. If the Velcro is wet or damp, allow it to dry completely before using it.

5. Use a Velcro Reinforcer

Velcro reinforcers can enhance the adhesion of Velcro strips. Apply a reinforcer to the back of the Velcro and press it into place.

6. Replace the Velcro

If the Velcro is severely damaged or worn out, it may be necessary to replace it altogether. Purchase new Velcro strips of the appropriate size and strength.

7. Clean with Rubbing Alcohol

Rubbing alcohol can help remove oil and residue from Velcro. Apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol to a cotton ball and gently wipe the Velcro surface.

8. Use a Hook-and-Loop Adhesive

Hook-and-loop adhesive can be applied to the back of Velcro strips to provide additional adhesion. Cut the adhesive to size and press it onto the Velcro.

9. Wash the Velcro

Washing Velcro in warm soapy water can help remove dirt and restore its adhesive properties. Allow the Velcro to air dry completely before using it.

10. Troubleshooting Table

Problem	Solution
Velcro not adhering	– Clean debris, trim loose threads, check for moisture, use a Velcro reinforcer, replace the Velcro
Velcro peeling off	– Clean debris, use rubbing alcohol, use a hook-and-loop adhesive
Velcro sticking to itself	– Wash the Velcro, use a lint roller, apply a hook-and-loop adhesive

How To Restore Velcro

Velcro is a type of fastener that consists of two strips of material, one with tiny hooks and the other with tiny loops. When the two strips are pressed together, the hooks and loops engage, creating a strong bond. However, over time, Velcro can become less effective as the hooks and loops become worn or damaged. Fortunately, there are a few simple ways to restore Velcro and make it work like new again.

One way to restore Velcro is to clean it. Dirt and debris can build up on the hooks and loops, preventing them from engaging properly. To clean Velcro, simply use a soft brush or a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris. You can also use a vacuum cleaner to remove any loose dirt or debris.

Another way to restore Velcro is to heat it up. Heat can help to soften the hooks and loops, making them more flexible and easier to engage. To heat up Velcro, simply place it in a warm oven or dryer for a few minutes. Be careful not to overheat the Velcro, as this can damage it.

If the hooks or loops on the Velcro are damaged, you can try to repair them. To repair a hook, simply use a pair of pliers to bend the hook back into place. To repair a loop, simply use a needle and thread to sew the loop back into place.

6 Steps on How to Finish a Stitch on a Sewing Machine

Finishing a stitch on a sewing machine is a crucial step to ensure a secure and professional finish to your sewing project. Whether you’re a seasoned seamstress or a novice, mastering the technique of ending a stitch correctly will elevate your sewing skills and enhance the durability of your garments. This comprehensive guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions and helpful tips on how to finish a stitch on a sewing machine, equipping you with the knowledge and dexterity to complete your sewing projects with confidence.

To initiate the stitch-finishing process, you will need to sew a few additional stitches beyond the end of the seam. This extra length will provide ample fabric to work with during the finishing process. Next, lift the presser foot and use the needle up/down button or the handwheel to raise the needle to its highest position. This will allow you to easily remove the fabric from the machine.

With the fabric removed, locate the two threads extending from the needle and the bobbin. Grasp the threads together and pull them gently towards the back of the machine. This action will create a small knot at the end of the thread. To secure the knot, sew a few stitches in reverse, starting from the knot and sewing towards the beginning of the seam. Once you have sewn a few reverse stitches, trim the excess thread close to the fabric. By following these steps carefully, you will effectively finish your stitch and prevent it from unraveling, ensuring a long-lasting and polished finish to your sewing project.

How To Finish A Stitch On A Sewing Machine

Finishing a stitch on a sewing machine is an important step in ensuring that your seam is secure and won’t unravel. There are a few different ways to finish a stitch, depending on the type of fabric you’re using and the desired look. The three most common finishing methods are backstitching, knotting, and chain-stitching.

Backstitching

Backstitching is the simplest and most secure way to finish a stitch. To backstitch, simply sew in reverse for a few stitches, then sew forward again to lock the stitches in place. Backstitching is a good choice for seams that will be subjected to stress, such as seams on clothing or bags.

Knotting

Knotting is another simple way to finish a stitch. To knot, simply sew a few stitches in the same place, then pull the thread tails through the loop that has formed. Knotting is a good choice for seams that will not be subjected to much stress, such as seams on curtains or pillowcases.

Chain-stitching

Chain-stitching is a more decorative way to finish a stitch. To chain-stitch, simply sew a series of small loops, one after the other. Chain-stitching is a good choice for seams that will be visible, such as seams on garments or home decor items.

## People also ask about How To Finish A Stitch On A Sewing Machine:

How do I choose the right stitch finish for my project?

The best way to choose a stitch finish is to consider the type of fabric you’re using and the desired look.

For seams that will be subjected to stress, backstitching is the best choice.
For seams that will not be subjected to much stress, knotting is a good choice.
For seams that will be visible, chain-stitching is a good choice.

How long should I backstitch?

It is generally recommended to backstitch for at least 3-5 stitches.

How do I tie off a knot on a sewing machine?

To tie off a knot on a sewing machine, simply sew a few stitches in the same place, then pull the thread tails through the loop that has formed. Cut the thread tails close to the knot.