Paragraph 100.

One of the first things to think of when beginning to sew is the position in which you should sit. Sit erect, in an easy position with the work near enough the eyes so that it can be easily seen. Observe the correct position shown in Figure 1. Sit with both feet flat on the floor so as not to tire the muscles of the back; whenever it is necessary to look at the work very closely, lift it to accommodate the eyes and thus avoid bending the back, neck and shoulders in the undesirable position shown in Figure 2.

The needle should be threaded with thread about 20" to 25" long, that is about the length of the arm. Tying the knot is one of the first things necessary in sewing. Be careful to have a tiny round ball instead of a bundle of loops at the end of the thread. To tie the knot, hold the needle and thread in the right hand, wrap the end of the thread around the front of the fore finger of theleft hand; roll it with the thumb, and as you pull it off the finger draw-it down to a small knot with the nail of the second finger and the thumb. It will require a little practice to be able to do it skillfully.

Figure 1 Correct Position.

Figure 2. Incorrect Position.

A thimble should always be worn on the second finger of the right hand to protect the end of the finger or the finger nail. The side of the thimble is generally used.