When preparing to hand stitch, what is necessary to prevent the thread from passing completely through the fabric?

To prevent the thread from passing completely through the fabric when hand stitching, tying a knot at the end of the thread is essential. The knot creates a barrier that stops the thread from pulling all the way through the fabric once you start stitching. This is particularly important in hand sewing, as it ensures the stitches remain secure and that the fabric layers are held together effectively.

Using two threads instead of one may create a more robust stitch but does not address the issue of the thread passing through the fabric. Choosing a thicker thread could potentially create a stronger stitch but might also lead to difficulties in maneuvering through finer fabrics. Starting at the end of the fabric does not effectively prevent the thread from passing through as it relates to the knot tied at the end of the thread. Thus, tying a knot is the most direct and effective method for achieving the goal of securing the stitch.