How to Backstitch on a Singer Sewing Machine – Do it in 4 Steps

In this article, I will use Singer Heavy-Duty 4423 Sewing Machine to teach you how to backstitch on it. But make sure this process applies to the models of Singer machines. 

Backstitch is a type of embroidery, and regular stitching is used to make backward stitches in the seams to secure the previously-sewn stitches. Well, you don’t always need to backstitch but sometimes, especially in the beginning or at the end of sewing seams. 

Let me tell you that every brand of a sewing machine has a backstitch function. A similar is with American Brand Singer, which has a dedicated button or lever depending upon the sewing machine model. 

I have brought this blog post to explain how to backstitch on a Singer sewing machine. Remember to read it till the end to take advantage of all important tips.

How to Backstitch on a Singer Sewing Machine – step-by-step instructions

Step 1: Collecting Materials

1. Singer Sewing Machine (with reverse stitch feature). I will use the Singer Heavy-Duty 4423 Sewing Machine in this case. 
2. Fabric
3. Sewing Thread.
4. Sewing clipper. For removing excessive threads. 

Almost every Singer sewing machine has a reverse/backstitch button, whether new or older. The button’s location thoroughly depends upon the model of the device you have. The reverse/backstitch button looks like a U-shaped knob with an arrow attached to it. 

Step 2: Preparation Stage

First, I will prepare my Singer Heavy-Duty 4423 sewing machine while threading it with a thread. Then I will place a fabric piece under its presser foot while keeping the thread tension moderate. 

Step 3: Making Back Stitching 

In this step, I will make a few back stitches at the beginning by pressing a U-shaped knob downwards and then releasing it back to its original form. After that, I will start making forward straight stitches to the end, and as the end reaches, I will slow down and press the U-shaped reverse button again. This way, my sewing machine will tie back stitching at the beginning and end. 

Step 4: Final Touch

After I complete the back stitching process, I lift the presser foot and take out the fabrics, and then I will check both ends of where I made the back stitches. Then with a sewing clipper, I will cut excessive threads at both ends, if any. 

Note: Because of its higher-end features, this machine is not 100% suitable for beginners, but I strongly encourage them to buy it if they are passionate about sewing. However, you must first learn how to use it.

How to Backstitch on a Vintage Singer Sewing Machine?

Most old-fashioned Singer Machines don’t have built-in reverse buttons like modern ones. 

But don’t worry, if you have a vintage machine without a reverse lever, you can still make back stitches, following the below points. 

1. Place a piece of fabric under the presser foot of your vintage sewing machine.
2. Now start making around 5 to 10 forward stitches, and then stop. After that, rotate the fabric all the way around and then make 5 to 10 more stitches. This way, you will make back stitches. 
3. Then again, rotate the fabric and start making forward stitches till the end, and at the end, stop again, turn the material and repeat the same process explained in Point 2.
4. Finally, you are done with backstitching on your vintage sewing machine.

See Our detailed Reviews about best sewing machines for Fashion designer, Top machines for leather holster, Special one for canvas, and don’t forget the Best one for faux fur.

Why Do I Need to Back Stitch My Sewing machine?

The Back Stitch is an extremely important part of the sewing process because it tightens the threads, so they don’t lose. As in manual sewing by hand, we make a tight knot at the start and end points of stitches to stretch out. 

But this is not the case with sewing machines. But a sewing machine will have a reverse stitch lever or button, so when you press it, the machine will automatically make a back stitch. 

Whether you have a treadle sewing machine or a handheld sewing machine, putting back stitches is similar, except for excluding sewing machines with reverse buttons.

However, sometimes… 

There may be a few occasions when making back stitches won’t suffice or will not be the best practice. This case can be prominent, especially with fabrics where you need to make double stitches, such as double needle lockstitch sewing machines, so there’s no need to use backstitching. 

Don’t Start Back Stitching with Singer Sewing Machine If You Have These Issues

• Only use a sewing machine with a reverse stitch button or lever. 
• Before back stitching, check the back stitching lever condition (if it is damaged, consider fixing it). 
• Clean your sewing machine thoroughly so there are no lints, dirt, dust, thread fibres, etc., as they will jam the back stitch button. 
• Before starting back stitch work, press the reverse stitch lever or button. 
• If you have a computerised Singer sewing machine, you may need to reset the software if the reverse stitch feature is not working. 

Some Final Words

So this was all about how to backstitch on a Singer sewing machine, with and without reverse control. By now, you must know the different settings involved in doing the Backstitch correctly.

Besides that, using reverse control on time and ensuring that you press the right button is quite important. This is why it can halt the whole stitching process if you hit the wrong knob while backstitching! With that said, I hope you have gained some quirky tips from this detailed guide.

THE END

---

Frequently Asked Questions