Threading a needle:

Try using self threading or easy-thread needles. These needles are commercially available online at LS&S [link opens in new window] and?at sewing supply stores or through specialty catalogs (see Products for Independent Living ?on this site). To use this type of needle, place the point-end of the needle securely down into a bar of soap or cork. Firmly grasp the thread with both hands, leaving an inch or less free between our hands. Locate the top of the needle with your thumb or finger. Use this as a guide to fit the thread into the 'V" notch above the eye of the needle. To lock the thread into the eye of the needle, pull down firmly with both hands until you hear or feel the thread click into place. You will need to use the correct amount of pressure in order to lock the thread into the eye of the needle without breaking it.

To thread regular eye needles or craft needles you might try using a commercially available device. Some of these include wire loop threaders, double barrel threaders, and one handed threaders. You can find?needle threaders online at Independent Living Aids.com [link opens in new window] and?they are?also available at stores such as Joanne Fabrics, Wal-Mart and specialist catalogs (see Products for Independent Living). A number of stores, especially where travel supplies are located, sell pre-threaded needles. These are sometime available in a variety pack with multiple colors or may be sold in a package with white and black thread only.

To thread a sewing machine or regular eye needle try using a Butler Dental Floss threader. This product is available at your local drugstore or where denture cleaning supplies are sold. A BD threader is a flexible loop of nylon plastic with a long tail.

• To use the threader: Take the tail end of the threader in one hand. Place a finger of the other hand behind the eye of needle. Bring the threader toward the eye of the needle.
• Push the tail through the eye using your finger behind the eye to feel the threader coming thru. Do not push the flexible loop through yet.
• Once you have pushed the tail through the end, take a piece of thread. Leave the piece of thread attached to the spool and make a small knot in the loose end. Feed the knot through the nylon loop of the threader .
• Continue to pull the remainder of the threader, loop and thread through the eye of the needle.?