Use a Waste Knot to Start a Stitch

Tie a knot in the end of the floss. Thread the needle and draw the floss through the top of the fabric near the edge. Do not pull too hard or the knot will pull through the fabric, especially if you draw the floss through a hole in Aida fabric. Bring the floss up through the back of the fabric and begin stitching. In this image, a waste knot is used to start a back stitch.