4 Easy Ways to Start & Finish Serging Lines

Serging is fast and clean—until you cut your project free and you’re left with thread tails that look like they’re planning to unravel the second you look away. In this video, Cheri shares four simple, practical ways to finish your serging lines so they stay secure and look tidy: tie a knot, use Fray Check, thread the tails with the Hookey tool, or stitch back into the seam on the serger.

Below is a clear breakdown of each method and when it’s most useful.

Method 1: Tie a knot at the end (quick and dependable)

This is the simplest option and works well when you just want the stitching secured without extra tools.

How it works:

• Leave a longer thread tail when you finish serging.

• Tie the threads into a firm knot close to the fabric edge.

• Trim the excess tail (leave a small tail so the knot stays put).

Method 2: Use Fray Check (secure + low-effort)

If you want something fast that locks the thread tail in place, Fray Check is a solid option.

How it works:

• Leave a thread tail.

• Apply a small dot of Fray Check right at the end of the serging line (where it could unravel).

• Let it dry completely before handling heavily.

Method 3: Thread tails with the Hookey tool (cleanest finish)

If you like your ends to look neat and professional, this is a favorite. Cheri uses a Hookey tool to pull thread tails back into the stitching so nothing is dangling.

How it works:

• Leave a longer thread tail.

• Use the Hookey tool to grab the tail and pull it back through the serger stitches (or into the seam allowance) so it’s hidden and secured.

• Trim any extra.

Method 4: Stitch back into the seam on the serger (built-in lock)

This method secures the tail by letting the serger stitch over itself briefly—like a built-in “lock” without switching machines.

How it works:

• When you reach the end, continue serging off the edge to form a tail.

• Turn/reposition so you can stitch back over the end of the seam for a short distance.

• Trim the tail.

Which method should you use?

A simple rule of thumb:

• Fast + hidden: tie a knot

• Fast + extra secure: Fray Check

• Tidiest finish: Hookey tool

• No extra tools: stitch back into the seam

Watch Cheri demonstrate all four methods

Seeing the exact hand placement and how far to stitch/weave makes these methods much easier to replicate. Watch Cheri’s tutorial for the full demo and her tips for choosing the best finish for your project.

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